Let Me Introduce You~An Interactive Story

[tayryn]

oy, that Katrina was a bitch!

this was a wonderful chapter!

and my pick for the next chapter will have to be... B!

[TartanPhoenix]

I loved it!!! It was great the way Albus just completely shut Katrina down. Once again, I believe I shall choose...B.

[angeldust]

B! B! B! !B !B Yup gotta go for B

[TheGryffindorSeeker]

Bravo! i loved that lol...and i don't know what to pick a or b...both appeal to me as good stories so i choose..........b lol great chapter

[MiniPrincess]

OK... well considering last time I voted for something that I would hate to happen in real life (I mean what girl isn't threatened by an ex, even a mean and nasty one like Katrina?!) so I better give Min a break and go with B, there is nothing better than receiving a note from the man you're thinking of.

[AngelQueen]

Katrina... what a... oooh! *glares at Katrina furiously* Wonderful post, though! Stephen was just completely out of his league when he tried to kiss Minerva! *growls* He really should stop trying with Minerva and take Maggie. She is obviously much more suited to him.

As for which option... argh! Gossipy staff or the adorableness that is Fawkes... how can one choose?! This is so hard!

Well, I just cannot resist Fawkes. He's just too cute. B for me!

AQ

[Hogwarts Duo]

A/N: Can we just say how much we love this story! ^_^ It is so much fun to have you guys decide what we write next. We both look forward to the next chapter and complete it in record times. Now on to the important stuff – we had 5 votes for A and 13 votes for B. So we now present you with…

Making an Entrance

It was a calm, starry night with a light breeze whispering about the robes of the raven- haired witch as she calmly walked up to the door of the Starlight Sky. Her long hair was loose and occasionally a wisp would tickle her neck, causing shivers to dance feverishly down her spine. Looking up, the large moon seemed to dominate the sky and cast a warm light down upon her as she smiled in return. The stars above shimmered with their dazzling but muted light, reminding her of the twinkle of his eyes only less brilliant and captivating.

Turning her attentions back to the door of the club, her delicate hand reached out and with one last glance to the heavens above, she opened the door and entered. It was peaceful and quiet inside. The mass of people who had occupied the fine establishment earlier were gone, most likely tucked safely in their beds resting their weary but sated bodies. Stepping further into the now vacant room, she smiled at the sight before her.

It was dark but not completely. The room was lit with only a few well-placed candles and the dancing flames were the only testament to the movement of anything in the room. As she stepped deeper into the room the candles seemed to flicker, nearly to the point of going completely out, as a familiar hand settled on her waist from behind.

“I hoped you would come, Minerva,” his soft voice said tenderly. “I’ve thought of nothing more than holding you in my arms again.”

Minerva was breathless and speechless as he slowly turned her around and she stared directly into the face of Albus Dumbledore. Her heart leapt into her throat as his hands easily slipped around her waist and rested comfortably on the small of her back. Her hands seemed to move of their own free will as they ran up his chest, through his long silky locks and settled at the base of his head where her fingertips danced slowly across his smooth skin.

Goosebumps rose on their arms and traveled quickly to other parts of their bodies as the air around them grew heavy with anticipation. Minerva could feel a prickling sensation as the rough material of her lacy bra rubbed across her breasts and Albus was shifting uncomfortably, trying to hide the increasing bulge below his belt. Leaning into his arms, she rested her head against his chest and could hear his rapidly beating heart, matching the rhythm of her own.

With a wave of his hand, soft music began to play and a few of the candles disappeared, creating a new ambiance to the room. Instead of it being merely romantic, it had now turned somewhat seductive and as they began to move to the strands of a slow song, he brushed his lips against her ear and hummed quietly.

Minerva tightened her hold on him and leaned her head to the side, granting him complete access to the side of her neck. Her warm breath caressed the skin of his throat as her eyes fluttered shut and she sighed happily.

The tune Albus had been humming into her ear was an unfamiliar one. It was gentle and melodic but was nothing like anything she had ever heard. It was a song of longing and happiness blended perfectly into a pitch that caressed the ears and heightened the other senses. Focusing on the new sound to her ears, Minerva slowly opened her eyes and let out a startled scream.

The bird sitting beside her pillow ruffled his feathers and screeched unhappily as the woman in the bed shifted quickly. She pulled the sheet around her neck and stared unhappily at the strange creature with red and gold plumage who had just interrupted the most wonderful dream she had ever had. Just as she was about to scold the brightly colored bird, she remembered something Albus had said the night before…something about his familiar being a phoenix.

“Fawkes?” she asked with a shaky voice.

A soft coo was her answer as he tentatively inched closer to her and bumped his head against her cheek.

“I’m sorry I scared you with my scream but you scared me too,” Minerva told the bird in a soothing tone, trying to ease his nervousness at having been shocked. Fawkes sang a series of sweet notes, reminding Minerva of the melody from her dream. She instantly realized that Fawkes must have been singing to her in the hopes of luring her awake and she had incorporated that into her wonderful dream. Before she had a chance to speak again, Fawkes extended his leg and offered her the small bit of parchment, which had been tied to it with a piece of purple ribbon.

A loud knock on Minerva’s bedroom door interrupted her once again. “Min, is everything alright? I heard you scream,” Maggie yelled frantically through the door.

“It’s alright Maggie. You can come in.” When the other woman stepped through the door she gasped at the sight which met her eyes. “Minerva, move away from the bird slowly and try not to scare him. Otherwise he’ll set the entire bed on fire!”

“What on earth are you sputtering about? He’s perfectly harmless. He actually sang me awake this morning,” she said stroking the head of the bird now nestled closely to Minerva. He had obviously remembered the rude treatment he had received from Maggie only minutes prior.

“He practically caught the entire house on fire..wait…you said he sang you awake this morning?” Maggie asked bewildered.

“Yes, and it was lovely. I was just about to read this letter he brought me when you charged in, scaring the both of us,” Minerva finished with a slight smirk. Even though he had frightened her at first, she was warming to the beautiful phoenix rather quickly and he to her.

Maggie gave her friend a rather glaring look before both women burst into giggles at the way their morning had started. “You mean you got a letter like this one,” she asked producing a letter that looked very similar to the one Minerva held in her hands.

Instantly her heart sunk to her toes. She assumed that she had been the only recipient of a morning letter but apparently that was not the case. “I haven’t read my letter just yet. What did yours say?” she asked curiously as she eyed the letter in Maggie’s hand.

“Oh it was incredibly thoughtful. It’s from Albus and he thanked me for a lovely evening, remarking on how much fun he had…just general comments about the night. It’s quite sweet of him, really. I don’t think I’ve ever been sent a thank you note for a date,” she giggled.

“Me either, though my letter isn’t from Stephen…thankfully,” she added.

“You really are turned off by him aren’t you? But we won’t get into that just yet. What does your letter from Albus say, Min? Open it up before I die of anticipation over here,” Maggie squealed, flopping down on the bed with excitement.

At that moment, Fawkes realized it was the perfect moment to take his leave. With one last, soft coo, a nudge of his head to Minerva’s cheek and a slight nip as if signaling a kiss, he stepped back from her and then burst into a magnificent ball of fire. Both women gasped as they stared at the now vacant spot left by Fawkes.

[Hogwarts Duo]

“That’s it! That’s exactly how he appeared to me. No warning, no flapping of wings…just a ball of fire to appear, delivered his letter, and then another ball of fire to disappear! I can’t believe he was so different with you!” Maggie was still a bit shaken by the sudden departure of the familiar and then something dawned upon her. “Apparently our friend, the bird, had specific instructions about how to greet YOU, this morning,” she finished with a knowing smirk across her lips. “I bet the great Albus Dumbledore gave magnificent details on how to wonderfully wake the raven haired sleeping beauty from her slumber,” she finished with an excited and overly dramatic flare to her words.

“You are out of your mind. Maybe he appeared to you differently because you were already awake and I wasn’t,” Minerva rationalized to her friend.

“Oh I wish that were the case. I was still in bed having a glorious sleep when he burst in and shocked me awake. I’m surprised you didn’t hear me scream!”

Minerva blushed as she remembered the dream she had been having before focusing on the melodious sounds floating all about her. Perhaps Fawkes did have special instructions or specific wishes from Albus. But there was only one way to distinguish herself from Maggie and that was to read the letter she was holding in her now shaking hands.

Dear Minerva,

After I arrived home last night, my thoughts kept turning to you.

First off, I want to apologize for the way Katrina treated you. She had no right to make the assumptions that she did about our relationship or to insult your accomplishments in our field. I find your intelligence and forthrightness to be refreshing. Your research has not gone unnoticed and I for one am looking forward to reading more of your published work.

On that note, I would like to invite you to lunch today to discuss a project which has been presented to me by the International Transfiguration Association. I believe it is an opportunity that would benefit greatly from your skills. I realize that it is quite short notice and if a later date would be better you need only let me know.

Secondly, I want to thank you for joining me on the dance floor last night. It was a privilege to be on the arm of such a beautiful witch whose dancing skills have been unmatched in my experience.

I very much look forward to your response.

Yours truly,
Albus

As Minerva read the last of the letter to Maggie she felt her breath catch in her throat.

“You must owl him back right away. You should probably suggest a time and place since it was not mentioned in the letter. I would definitely go with The Three Broomsticks. It is close to him and Rosmerta is discreet. I am sure she can arrange to have the private room set up for you if you owl her this morning. This is so very exciting!” Maggie had picked herself up off the bed and was pacing around Minerva’s room.

“Wait a minute. You’re not upset? After all, Albus was your date, not mine. And don’t get too excited. He just wants to meet to discuss business.”

“Of course I am not upset. I told you that I fancied Stephen. And although Albus is a gentleman and he is famous, rich, intelligent and good looking, he is not my type.” The two witches laughed at Maggie’s comments. “And believe me, he wants to do more than talk business with you. I think that is just a ruse to get you to meet with him.”

Minerva blushed furiously as her friend walked over and pulled her out of bed. “Now get ready so that you can owl Albus. I am going to look through you closet and try to find something that isn’t going to make you look double your age.

“Hey, my robes are perfectly…” Minerva was cut off as she was shoved into her bathroom, the door shutting smartly behind her.

She shook her head and smiled. Well there was nothing to do but go ahead and get ready for the day. Maggie would be calling for her head if she didn’t emerge in a timely manner. As the witch stepped into the shower she found her thought turning to the letter she had received through Fawkes.

She was very flattered by his compliments. She hadn’t realized he thought so well of her. Of course, avoiding Stephen’s advances had been her main goal of the previous night. Now that she knew what Albus thought of her, at least in a general sense, Minerva wondered what she thought of him. After pondering on the previous evening in detail, she decided he was everything Maggie said and more. She had found him deeply intriguing and couldn’t help but feel her heart beat faster when she remembered his arms holding her so firmly as they danced.

There was definitely something there, at least for her. She knew she shouldn’t get too excited. After all, as far as she knew this was merely a formal meeting to go over a business proposal. But try as she might Minerva couldn’t keep the skip out of her step as she stepped out of the shower to finish her preparations of the morning.

Minerva pulled at her robe as she stepped out of her bedroom. “Maggie, do you really think this is appropriate? It is cut a little low.”

“It is perfect and don’t you change a thing. Trust me on this one. He will be captivated when he sees you.”

Minerva walked over to the wall and cast a spell to make it a full length mirror. She gasped at the sight before her. Maggie had been working her magic since Albus’ positive response to Minerva’s suggestion as to a time and place had arrived. And it appeared that the effort had been well worth it.

Minerva stood transfixed as she looked at herself. The robe Maggie had chosen was a deep green like her eyes. It was one that she had bought on impulse at Madam Malkin’s a few months ago. However, the matronly robe that had been hanging in her wardrobe had been transformed by Maggie to hug Minerva’s curves and to flow about her ankles becomingly. A beautiful pendant necklace, which contained a sparkling tendril of fire, nestled in the hollow at the base of her slender throat. The pendant had been a gift from her father and she had rarely worn it, finding she had nothing to match its’ beauty. Her hair cascaded down her back, tendrils curling around her face and arms. And to Minerva’s relief, Maggie had been very light on the cosmetic charms, emphasizing her eyes and minimally enhancing her cheeks and lips.

[Hogwarts Duo]

“Wow, you didn’t tell me that you were gifted in the art of miracles.” Minerva turned to look back at her friend.

“I only enhanced what was there. If you stopped hiding yourself you could look like this every day. Now you need to hurry or you will be late. Make sure to floo me tonight and let me know how things go.” Maggie walked over and gave Minerva a hug.

“You are not going to stay? You know you are more than welcome to crash here.”

“I know but I think it is time that I returned to my apartment. My books might start to miss me. And since we have a week off from work, I might as well start my cleaning. I am afraid I have been rather neglectful in that area.”

Minerva heard a pop as Maggie apparated back to her own apartment. Her heart was fluttering as she realized that the time was finally here. She kept telling herself that it was only a business meeting as she closed her eyes and concentrated on the place she wanted to go. The usual odd sensation in the pit of her stomach spread through her body as she apparated to The Three Broomsticks.

As she let the sensation ebb away, Minerva opened her eyes and found herself looking into a pair of sparkling blue depths. A bit startled she began to lose her balance but a pair of hands grasped her elbows, helping to steady her. The warmth of his hands on her caused a shiver to run through her body. She knew those eyes. They were the same ones from her dreams last night and those hands were the ones which had guided her across the floor.

“You certainly know how to make an entrance Minerva.”

She started to blush, both from his words and his proximity. “I like to keep people on their toes.”

Albus chuckled at her comment and took her arm in his own as he led her to their table in the back. Minerva noticed how his eyes lit up as he took in her appearance. “You look lovely today Minerva.”

Minerva found herself speechless and her blush deepened. She finally managed to mutter out a thank you to which Albus smiled brightly. Rosmerta appeared at the table just as Albus was being seated and Minerva ordered her usual cup of tea while Albus decided on a butterbeer.

“Thank you for agreeing to meet with me on such short notice. I hope you didn’t have to rearrange any plans to be here.”

Minerva leaned forward in her chair as she answered. “After receiving your note I found myself very intrigued with the prospect of helping in a research project the ITA would be funding. So far I have only worked for the Ministry on projects I have been assigned. It would be a nice change to choose what I do. And don’t concern yourself with my plans. I am usually at my laboratory but since I was banned from work….well, I suppose I will find myself with an abundance of time on my hands at least for the next week.”

“If I may inquire, what could possibly have gotten you banned from work for one week’s time?”

As Minerva related the tale, she found herself completely at ease around Albus. His easy laughter and undivided attention made her feel very special and she had to remind herself several times that her interest in him was not necessarily reciprocated. Lunch was ordered and served in short time and soon they were deep into discussion on the upcoming research project that was being put together.

“I have always been interested in the theory that an individual can become more than one animagus. After all, our personalities are so intricate that I find it hard to believe they can all be encompassed in the form of one animal. Also, I have heard there are scattered references made to multiple animal forms for individuals in ancient wizarding texts but while at University I could only find one such example in all of my research.” Minerva narrowed her eyes in thought. “It is very intriguing but hasn’t research been done before of this nature with no positive outcome.”

“That is where things will be different. The ITA has been granted permission to have access to several libraries with old scrolls, which haven’t been examined in hundreds of years due to their fragile nature. Including some scrolls from the Library of Alexandria. In addition, they would like to choose several witches and wizards who currently have an animagus form to begin training on a second.”

Minerva had decided she would agree before Albus was even done speaking. To have access to the wizarding scrolls from the Library of Alexandria was a once in a lifetime chance and not one she would pass over. She remembered her parents teaching her the importance of books as a source of knowledge and entertainment. They used to tell her the story of how the wizarding scrolls kept as part of the Library of Alexandria, the greatest concentrated source of knowledge for that period, were stored in a building by the sea. Events were set forth between the most powerful wizards and witches of that time to enter the scrolls into hiding to keep an evil power rising out of the North from using them for ill as many of the scrolls contained dark magic.

Spells had been cast upon the texts to keep them safe from water and fire. It was a typical custom of the time since it was not uncommon to loose one’s libraries to such catastrophes. When the port near the books was set afire by Julius Caesar, the scrolls were moved and the building burned. Minerva still loved to hear the story and had done some additional reading on the subject throughout the years.

The scrolls, which had been hidden for centuries, were guarded by a select group of wizards whose lives were dedicated to their preservation. It was still true to this day. Some prominent wizards and witches were allowed entrance to the vaults hiding them for research on specific subjects but viewing of the original scrolls was a rarity. Copies of hundreds of the texts had been released over the years and Minerva had read a great many of them. But the library held thousands more that had never been seen.

Minerva found her pulse racing at the thought of entering into that sacred place. “You need go no further. I would be honored to be part of the research team. Do you have a proposal which I can look over?”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Options for this week are:

A) In a bold move, Minerva decides to ask Albus out on a more personal date...one that does not involve work situations or proposals, but something so much more.

B) Albus, still intrigued by the intelligent witch before him, decides to pursue her in a more formal manner and asks her to join him in an outing that he hopes will beguile the beauty into seeing him as more than a business partner.

The voting will end on April 14. Happy Voting Everyone!

[Sensiblyquirky]

I love how Fawkes woke her up, and that they seemed to get along quite well. The description of Minerva was excellent as well. Now to my vote...oh this week is hard. I think I'll go with B though. We've had a lot of Minerva being bold ones lately...so B.

Christy

[ginger newts]

Squee, I loved the letter. This project also sounds very interesting and should be a fun new element for the story. As for next week, hmm...I like bold Minerva and I don't want them to waste a lot of time being uncertain of each other so I say A.

[angeldust]

wooo fabby chapter i loved fawkes he was so sweet! ;D But now the hard part A or B Minerva or Albus and i'm going to have to go for A there's a lot more fics with Albus asking Minerva out and i think Minerva needs a time to shine

[Kristen]

Ooh, this is wonderful!

I vote B! I love coy the coy relationships... hehe

[Sola]

Ahh difficult...hmm...go for...A!

Anyway...great update

Sola

[Karlynne]

I want to get the show on the road so I say A.

[DumbledoresKitten]

Very sly! either choice gives us a date, but will it be in the style of Albus or Min. hummm . . . decisions!
Great chapter, Albus is so sweet sending a note to both Maggie and Min. (hehe, voting ends on the last day of classes for me, so I can't wait for the next chapter: !freedom!)
Ok, ok . . . A
loved it!!
cat

[tayryn]

i *SO* knew Minerva was dreaming!!! but damn! what a nice dream! ;D

i am one for nice, long fics... i love the build up between the characters... the tension... the want... the need... the desire... so that part of me is leaning towards B...

but then there is the part of me that wants to see them get together now... to pour gasoline on the spark that is there between them and watch it flare into the inferno we all know burns between Albus and Minerva... and that part is leaning towards A...

and i think... i think i'm gonna give in to the other part and go with A!!

very much looking forward to the next part, no matter which option wins out!!

[Jaya]

After much thought am gonna have to vote for.... A!!!!! Bold Minerva is fun! Albus made the move for the last meeting... Let Minerva make this one!

Great chapter, Ladies!!!!

Jaya

[AngelQueen]

*cooes happily over Fawkes and sends him a bag of Phoenix treats* Such a sweetie! ;D And that dream... *sighs like a sap* If only I could be so blessed...

Wonderful update! There to discuss business only, hah! They both wanted to see one another again and they both know it! *grins* Smitten much they are!

Ooo! Another tough decision! On one hand, we have Minerva being the bold Gryffindor we all know her to be, while on the other we see Albus entering into all sorts of courtship rituals and being romantic... *sighs* How can one make such a decision...

Oh, heck with it, we'll probably see Albus be romantic at many points, so let's go with Bold!Minerva! 'A' for me!

[QuillofMinerva]

That was a great update ladies and I loved Fawkes appearance. He seems to like Minerva which can only be good in the long run!

A or B...I love both ideas but I know only one can be chosen so I choose......A!

Clayre xx

[Kamdra]

I choose A. I am so loving this story and i like being allowed to express my preference before the story is complete. Kammie

[Rikki]

Wow, brilliant story so far. And a damn difficult choice but I guess I'll go for... A.

Hugs, Rikki

[TartanPhoenix]

Yay for the update The dream was perfect, and Fawkes' entrance was priceless. So now the big question, A or B... I'm really enjoying the bold Minerva, so A!!!

[TheGryffindorSeeker]

oh i think both choices are good but id go for.....A!

[MiniPrincess]

Excellent chapter. I think Minerva having someone to confide in (other than Albus of course) is something which is too rarely explored! Anyway, onto the more pressing topic. I am old fashioned and only this morning answered one of those email things that asked whether I am too shy to ask a guy out and I said I'd never been given the opportunity! And I think Min should be admired and cherished and therefore B... its all up to Albus, with subtle hints of course!

[Kalex]

I believe every man loves it when a woman makes a move so I will choose A.

[griseldalafey]

*giggle* I adore Fawkes.

Hmmm, I like a bold Minerva, so I'll say A

[Hogwarts Duo]

A/N: Wow! We’re flattered that you’re still reading and having fun with this story. It’s great to see so many opinions and thoughts on what should happen or will happen in the next chapter based on the voting. And this week, there was an overwhelming consensus in your opinions. There were 15 votes for “A” bold Minerva and 3 votes for “B”, the romantic Albus. But have no fear MiniPrincess, Sensiblyquirky, and Kristen…there will be plenty of opportunities for our sweet Albus to pamper, romance, and adore our lovely Minerva…wink wink!

Bold Moves, Sweet Surprises

Minerva was back in her living room, having just apparated from The Three Broomsticks. From her pocket she removed a bundle of papers, the proposal information from Albus, which she had shrunk for traveling. As she enlarged the items, she moved over to her favorite armchair and sat, curling her legs under her. She wasn’t sure she had made the right decision. It had been rash, the prospect of working with Albus and being able to visit the vault holding the wizarding scrolls from the Library of Alexandria had made her agree to the project much sooner than she would normally have done. Of course, nothing was set until the contracts had been read and signed. Albus had told her to take her time so that she was comfortable with her decision and to owl him with any questions.

She felt her body warm as she remembered his blue eyes, twinkling and concentrated solely on her. His company had been better than imagined, if that was possible. Without Maggie and Stephen to consider, their conversation had been flowing and intriguing, moving from one subject to another with ease. When they had finally been ready to part, Albus had paused as if he had wanted to say something but in the end had only said goodbye and that he would be speaking with her soon. Minerva had tried not to look disappointed and hoped she hadn’t failed miserably.

Looking down at the papers crowding her lap, she supposed there was no time like the present. And after all, she was not one to dally when making a decision. Picking up the first of the packets of information, she opened the folder and began to leaf through the contracts. There were several forms, release of liability if anything were to happen to her in the course of the research, privacy statements, rights of ownership including a paragraph on being credited with discovery, lists of what would be provided by the ITA, travel expense and reimbursement regulations, all paperwork similar to what she had had to sign when she had been hired at the Ministry.

The second file she opened was more what she was after. It outlined her role in the research process and her salary and compensation paperwork. “Oh Merlin!” Minerva’s eyes had become quite large as she looked at her proposed salary for the work. She knew that private research paid more in most cases but she had never realized how much.

“You look like you have just seen a ghost!”

Minerva jumped, nearly out of her chair. “Maggie! Are you trying to kill me?”

Between bouts of laughter, Maggie informed Minerva that she had called to her several times but since she hadn’t answered, Maggie had decided to step through the floo rather than keep her head there until she was noticed. “You were gone for what seemed like forever! I take it that things went well.”

Maggie took the seat across from her while Minerva told her everything that had happened. “Oh Minerva, he must really like you. The most famous wizard of our time is too shy to ask you on a date.”

“We don’t know that he was going to ask me anywhere. And considering the reason for our lunch, it could just as easily have been pertaining to the project.”

Maggie leaned forward in her chair pining Minerva with a hard stare. “But it didn’t feel like he was going to ask you about the project did it? Admit it, you know he likes you and I bet if you asked him out for an evening he would accept.”

Maggie was like a kid in a candy store as her eyes glazed over with thoughts of Minerva asking Albus out for a date. And Minerva spotting where her friend’s mind was going was quick to shut it down. “Don’t even think it Maggie. I will not ask Albus out on a date. If he is interested in me then he will ask. If not, it will be business as usual.”

Maggie’s shoulders slumped. “You know, you can be rather boring when you put your mind to it. I think you calling on him would be romantic.”

Minerva harrumphed and decided to change the subject before Maggie talked her into changing her mind. It was amazing how deceptively persuasive her friend could be when she put her mind to it. “Speaking of dates, has Stephen contacted you?”

The crestfallen look on Maggie’s face told all. “I haven’t heard a thing from him. It appears that I was much more taken with him than he was with me.”

Minerva felt her temper start to boil thinking about Stephen. Why Maggie liked him was beyond her, but if her friend was interested in the git then Minerva was going to help her to win him. “Look Maggie, Stephen was so centered on being my date that he probably didn’t really look around to see what was right in front of him. And I am sure that once he gets his head out of his arse…”

“Minerva!”

“Sorry Maggie but I still haven’t seen the side of him that you obviously think exists. Anyway, if you like him so much and are truly set on pursuing him then I think your next course of action should be to contact him yourself.”

“And do what?”

“Ask him on a date.”

“Are you kidding? I can’t do that!” Maggie had turned an odd shade of red and Minerva had to stifle a grin.

“I see. It is okay for me to ask Albus out but you couldn’t possibly ask Stephen out. That is quite the double standard Maggie.”

“Anyone can see that Albus fancies you. The same cannot be said for me and Stephen. I would look a fool if I were to approach him.”

Maggie became contemplative after her statement and Minerva had an overwhelming feeling that she probably should have kept quiet and found another suggestion as to how to have Stephen and Maggie meet. And Maggie’s next words confirmed it. “How about this – if I ask Stephen out on a date then you have to agree to ask Albus.”

Minerva felt her stomach fill with butterflies. She definitely should have kept her mouth closed. Now what was she to do? She had made the suggestion to Maggie and then had to compound the problem by saying that what was good for one should be good for the other. Now if she rejected her suggestion she would look like a rather large arse herself.

With her thoughts all concentrated on how she really did not like Stephen, after all no one had caused her more problems in so short a period of time, she closed her eyes and replied. “Very well.”

Maggie let out a squeal, much like a young schoolgirl who had just been asked out by the most popular boy in school and suddenly Minerva found herself immersed in a tight hug as Maggie pulled her to her feet.

“I knew I could convince you! I knew it!” she giggled.

[Hogwarts Duo]

“Be that as it may, I must point out that I have also dragged you into this boat with me so it looks like we’re both winners in this situation. Although, I wouldn’t exactly call Stephen a prize,” Minerva bit back sarcastically.

“Minerva McGonagall! You should be ashamed. You don’t hear me talking about how boring and stuffy I find Albus. And I am happy to say that at least I won’t have to face the glares from all those women who would kill to be in your shoes. Just picture it dear…sitting in a romantic restaurant with him, talking sweetly as you gaze into each other’s eyes and them BAM…some old love or an infatuated woman comes over and ruins your evening.” Maggie plopped down in her chair and sighed as she pictured the scene she had just described.

“Have you forgotten that we’ve already dealt with his previous lover and I must admit that the end results weren’t that bad. I didn’t mind spending several dances in the arms of Albus as he sang the words to the songs and hummed along when he lost track. Despite the way that horrid woman made her presence known, I was most pleased with the way Albus put her in her place. And I have no doubts that should he agree to go out with me, things would be drastically different than they were the last time.” Minerva had a smile on her face when she thought back to the way it felt to be held in his arms.

“Earth to Minerva…hello!” Maggie yelled out in a desperate attempt to snap Minerva from her daydreams. When Minerva shook her head, as if to clear it of all the clutter invading her mind, she locked eyes with Maggie. “Now that I have your attention again, do you have any ideas on how I should approach Stephen?”

“Carefully! He’s prone to accidents of the feet and mouth,” Minerva snapped.

“You’re terrible. Do you know that? Seriously, how are you planning to ask Albus on a date? I bet the straight laced woman that you are, you’ll just send him a formal invitation and be done with it.”

Minerva thought for a second and had to admit that she wasn’t exactly sure what she’d do. She had never been this attracted to a man and this wasn’t just any ordinary man. This was the most eligible bachelor in the wizarding world, famous for so many things and revered by most everyone in their world. Surely he had hundreds of women clamoring and vying for his attentions. And yet, from what she had seen this afternoon, he seemed to be genuinely interested in her.

“I’m not sure how I’ll broach the subject with Albus. I’ve never asked a man out before so I have no idea where to even start that conversation. I suppose I could send him an owl but what if it gets lost among all his other offers? Or worse, he rejects my offer and then I’ve lost the opportunity to work with him.” That last bit tumbled from her lips and she realized just how much she would be risking by asking him out on a more intimate date. “I can’t do it, Maggie. I just can’t. If I ask him and he declines, how will I ever be able to work on this project? And it’s something I really want to do.”

“Minerva, I saw the way he treated you the other night. I also see the way your eyes sparkle when you speak of him. He’s definitely interested in you, maybe more than you know, and if you don’t ask him out, then I’ll be forced to take matters into my own hands.” Maggie raised her eyebrows and looked sternly at Minerva. “Now, ask yourself…do you really want me to ask him out for you?” she finished with a wink and a giggle.

“As much as I’d love to be relieved of the stress of this entire scenario, my answer is a resounding NO. You just take care of asking Stephen and I’ll find some way to mention it to Albus. After all, I wasn’t sorted into Gryffindor for nothing you know. I must have some courage stored up somewhere for use in my personal life.”

The rest of the evening passed in a blur as the women spoke of the prospects of Minerva’s new project. Maggie hesitatingly reminded Minerva that she was only granted one week off from their boss, which would pose a serious problem with the research project. There were no deadlines placed on the research team and the odds of getting their work done in one week were astronomical. And as a result, she would have to either ask for a temporary leave of absence from her Ministry work or she would have to decline the chance to work alongside the most brilliant minds in the wizarding world.

Realizing that some things were just too good to pass up, Minerva drafted a letter to her boss, informing her of the offer and respectfully requesting an extended leave of absence. She felt certain that Mrs. Bestingale would recognize the opportunity being presented and with a little bit of persuasion and the assurance that Maggie could continue on her own, her request would be granted. With the letter drafted and sent to her employer, Minerva sighed and turned her thoughts back to the matter at hand.

After bidding Maggie goodnight, Minerva took the papers Albus had given her and settled into her bed for a bit of reading. There were so many forms and official looking documents to read through before she agreed to sign onto the team but no matter how much she tried to focus, her thoughts kept returning to the personal aspect of the entire adventure. No matter how intriguing the scrolls and parchments, nothing could even compare to spending more time in the presence of Albus Dumbledore, working side by side on a daily basis and getting to know him even better.

With the fresh light of day, Minerva woke and before her feet even hit the floor, she summoned her quill and inkpot to her bed. With a determined smile and a hint of the butterflies swarming in her stomach, she easily signed all of the forms. She was certain she had carefully looked over each and every one of them but one must have slipped past her the night before. The next to last paper in the stack had a personal note attached.

Minerva,
I am not trying to influence your decision on this matter, but I would just like to say how much more enjoyable this project would be if you were there to add some adventure and beauty into the otherwise tedious days ahead. I eagerly await your answer.
Albus

A giddy feeling swept through her and with a flourish, she signed the papers. And then an idea began to form in her mind. Apparently, Albus did find her intriguing and the thrill of perhaps becoming more than just a friend with him thrummed through her veins. All she had to do was make the first move, to show her obvious interest in him. Jumping up from her bed, she dashed to the shower and quickly went about her morning routine before putting her plan into action.

[Hogwarts Duo]

Several hours later and a kitchen full of dirty dishes, Minerva looked at her accomplishment and smiled. She had always been gifted in the kitchen, thanks to her mother’s insistence that she learn to cook with both magical and muggle means. And now all her time and effort had paid off as she studied the three layer chocolate cake. Her thoughts drifted back to the night of their double date and how he had fed her that one bite of chocolate cake. His soothing voice and the softness of his breath as it danced across her face had been her undoing and she willingly admitted it was the best chocolate cake she had ever tasted. Although, it had everything to do with the situation and not the cake, itself.

As a dreamy look appeared in her eyes at the memory of that single moment in time, she took quill and parchment and wrote a simple note.

Albus,
I baked a cake this morning and couldn’t help but think of you. I found myself wondering if you’d be interested in showing me how to truly enjoy this chocolate cake I have here at my home, just like you did during the double date? Then maybe, if you’re not too busy, you’ll let me treat you to dinner…just the two of us. No work, no other couples, just us. I’m sending you a sample of the cake to whet your appetite shall we say. Hope to hear from you soon!
Minerva

With enough butterflies fluttering in her stomach to start her own hatchery, Minerva rolled up the parchment and after cutting a slice of the cake, she packaged it all up neatly and called for her most trusted owl. Attaching the package and note to the strong owl’s leg, she made sure he understood not to leave until Albus had opened the box. Hopefully, he’d answer her right away and put her mind at ease. Then all that would be left to do would be to plan an outing for the two of them to share without the prying eyes of others or the annoying Stephen to interrupt.

Half an hour later, Minerva was shaken from her musings by the familiar sounds of Fawkes singing and suddenly he appeared in her living room. He landed on the arm of her chair and bumped his head against hers and as she offered him a treat, he nipped playfully at her fingertips. Extending his leg to her, she untied the parchment from Albus and nervously unrolled it to see his answer.

My Dear Minerva,
You are as talented in the kitchen as you are on the dance floor. That was a most enjoyable piece of cake but I’m sure it could be improved upon if tasted in your presence. I would love to spend an evening alone in your company, just name the time and day you have in mind and I will be there with a smile on my face and a rose in my hand. And I sincerely hope the date is soon for I miss your smiling face already.
Yours,
Albus

Minerva jumped up from the chair and squealed much like Maggie had done the previous day. Quickly throwing floo powder into the fireplace, she contacted Maggie and told her everything, from the decision to take the project, to the cake, and her forward invitation to Albus about a date. After telling all about his reply, Maggie congratulated her friend on finding her courage and then immediately began demanding to know what she had in mind for the date, completely forgetting to mention that she had been successful in her invitation to Stephen. But that could wait for now. Her best friend had just managed to snag a date with the most eligible bachelor and the only one who had captured Minerva’s emerald green eyes.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

OPTIONS FOR THE WEEK:

A) Minerva decides to visit her parents for a few days where news of her date and upcoming project are met with mixed feelings.

B) Minerva decides to go on a small retreat to enjoy her week off. There she runs into someone who looks surprisingly familiar. She suddenly finds herself in the company of Albus’ brother Aberforth who is more than happy to share stories of their childhood.

And the voting will end on April 21. We’re looking forward to hearing what you have to say about this chapter and the next one too.