The Parent Trap Continued

[QuillofMinerva]

A/N: For some reason I was unable to get a reply buttion the original thread of this story so I am posting the rest in this new thread.

Summary: Two girls meet in a busy Diagon Alley. They discover a secret that has been kept from them for ten years. Can they bring the secret out into the open and bring their parents back together? ADMM.

Rating: Erm....I think 11 +

Chapter Ten: What's Papa Like?
By Ang

As the sun peeked through the windows and danced playfully across Evie’s face, she yawned and stretched, forgetting where she was and all that had happened to her just the day before. Then, as she opened her eyes and took in her surroundings, it all came flooding back to her and a wide grin covered her face as she rolled over and hugged her mother’s pillow to her face, inhaling her new favourite scent.

She replayed the events from the day before and wondered how Abigail was faring at Hogwarts. She hoped that things had gone as smoothly with their father and it had with their mum. But, knowing just how little she saw of her father some days, she wasn’t overly concerned about Abigail revealing their secret with some mishap. No, she was more concerned about ruining things on her end.

“Well, it’s about time you woke up sleepy head!” Minerva was standing at the door and smiling at her daughter. “I can’t remember the last time you slept so late. It’s nearly eight o’clock and I was about to think the trip yesterday had completely exhausted you,” she teased as she sat down beside Evie on the bed.

Evie stretched once more and blinked harshly as Minerva waved her hand, permitting the curtains to part, revealing the bright blue of the sky and the large clouds outside the window. She couldn’t understand why anyone would intentionally choose to get up so early in the morning. At home, she wouldn’t even think of getting out of bed until at least nine, unless of course she had something specific to do that day. But since she was playing the part of Abigail, she had to start rising earlier in the morning.

“Yesterday was a big day for me, Mum, and I had a lot of things to think about last night. After I went to sleep, I had the most fascinating dreams. But when I woke up each time, I had to realize that they weren’t real and that was sad.” Evie had stayed awake for hours trying to think of the perfect way to get her mother to talk about her father and this was her chosen plan of action.

“Oh really! Well, would you care to enlighten your poor mother about these dreams of yours?” Minerva pulled Evie into her arms and tickled her until she was practically begging for mercy as the two dissolved in a fit of the giggles.

“I…I was dreaming that Papa was here with us and that you two were still in love,” she said with a bluntness that stunned Minerva. “I saw him in my dreams and we were all so very happy. You two were kissing and hugging while I played with…um, a pet.”

Minerva stiffened a little at the mention of Evie’s dreams but she realized that sooner or later she would have to confess her deepest secrets to her daughter and today might as well be the beginning of the long and detailed process. Minerva had to admit, though, that the idea of telling Abigail about her father and ultimately her sister would be a huge weight off her heart. Then again, it could possibly cause her heart to shatter. It would all depend on how her daughter reacted. “Abigail, what did your father look like, dear?” Minerva asked with a shaking voice.

Fear gripped Evie’s heart as she tried to think quickly. “Oh, well, I didn’t really get a good look at him,” she lied. “He was too busy paying special attention to you and I was busy playing so I can’t really say what he looked like. But I bet he was handsome.”

“Yes, baby, he is handsome. He is the most attractive man I’ve ever seen. You have his eyes, you know,” she said wistfully. “Goodness, listen to me raving on about the past. How about you get up and have some breakfast? Then, we’ll pack a lunch and head off to the lake. We can swim, take your new schoolbooks to look through, and just spend a lazy day in the summer sun.”

Evie panicked when Minerva mentioned swimming. Her father had flatly refused to allow her to swim in the lake at Hogwarts so she had never truly learned how to swim. He had made it very clear that the giant squid did not take kindly to little girls splashing about in the cool waters and while she had been allowed to wade into the lake, it was only with the strictest supervision from her father or another staff member on the grounds. Hoping that her mother wouldn’t try to make her swim, she agreed to her mother’s proposal and dashed to her room to get ready.

The afternoon was passing by rather quickly as they flipped through the pages of Evie’s schoolbooks. Having never been one to really enjoy reading or learning things just for fun, it was with half-hearted enthusiasm that she allowed her mother to explain some of the more important aspects of magic illustrated on the pages of the books. One thing did catch her eye though and that was the transfiguration text.

“Look, mum, it says here that we will be learning how to transfigure objects into animals and that a few witches and wizards have successfully managed to become animagi! I bet that takes a lot of power and concentration.” Evie noticed the odd look her mother was giving her as she talked about that part of transfiguration and it unnerved her. She was aware that her father could readily turn himself into a snowy owl and maybe that was the cause for her mother’s odd stare.

“Abigail, I hope you remember more at school than you do now. How many times have we gone over the properties of transfiguration and the delicate task of becoming an animagus? You’ve only asked me about it every week since you were old enough to talk! ” Minerva exaggerated as she smiled. But she noticed that her daughter wasn’t returning her teasing and it was almost as if she had just learned something shocking about her mother.

“Can you transfigure into your form for me again?” Evie asked. “I want to really study how you do it so I can remember things better. I want to make excellent grades in transfiguration so you’ll be proud of me.”

“Abigail, transfiguration is in your blood so I doubt very seriously if you’ll have to worry about that. Both your father and I are able to transfigure into animals at will. He becomes a beautiful owl the colour of the purest snow and his wingspan is most impressive but not many people know of his ability to transform. He isn’t registered with the Ministry for several good reasons. I, on the other hand, am registered and you’ve seen my form hundreds of times. But just for you, I’ll change once more,” she answered with a wink.

In the blink of an eye, Minerva disappeared and a small gray tabby cat was in her place briefly before jumping into the young girl’s lap, bumping her head against her daughter’s chin. “A cat!” she squealed. “That’s it! You’re a beautiful tabby cat and I am the luckiest girl in the world,” Evie giggled, hugging Minerva to her and kissing the top of her mother’s head.

Suddenly, it all made sense and Evie was having a hard time containing her excitement and shock. Surely, Abigail had seen Minerva transfigure hundreds of times but what she didn’t know was how Evie had been denied a cat for years because of the obvious connection to their mother. She was more determined than ever to learn more about her parents split and how their mother felt about him still. As Minerva transfigured back into human form, she took a deep breath and asked the question which had been plaguing her thoughts for years.

“Mum, why did you and Papa split up when I was still a little girl?” There! It was out in the open now and all she had to do was sit back and wait for the answers to start pouring from her mum’s lips.

“It’s a long and very complicated story, dear. But I can assure you that it had nothing at all to do with our love for you.”

[QuillofMinerva]

“Then why did he leave us? Or did you leave him? I see how you get when you talk or think about him so I have to assume that it was his fault.” That sentence was hard for her to speak but thinking like Abigail, she knew that’s what her sister must’ve thought all these years, just like she had towards her mother at times.

“It wasn’t anybody’s fault, Petal. Your father and I just had different ideas on what a married life should be like. He was very busy all the time and there just didn’t seem to be any time for us,” she said with a hint of pain in her voice. “We tried to work things out for your sake but the harder we tried, the worse things seem to become and we didn’t want you growing up in a house where we fought all the time. You’re much too precious to us for that.”

“But if he loves me so much, then why has he stayed away from us all this time? Didn’t it hurt him when we left?” Evie was pushing her mother for answers now and she could tell that it was a painful subject to talk about but this was the only way she and Abigail would get their answers. It was also the only way they could even begin to understand why they had been kept apart for so many years.

“Abigail, your father has stayed away because at the time we separated, it was best for both of us.”

“Do you still love him?”

A long silence fell upon them as Minerva locked eyes with her daughter. “Yes. I still love him, more than he loves me, I’m afraid. But that’s a part of the past and one that I cannot change, even if I wanted to more than anything.” A tear fell from Minerva’s eyes and Evie reached up to wipe it away from her mother’s face. She snuggled into Minerva’s arms and sighed.

“Tell me about him, please. I want to know what my father is like. If he loves me as you say he does, then I at least want to know what made you fall in love with him in the first place. I want to understand what happened.”

This was not the conversation she had planned to have with Abigail today but it was one she could no longer put off. Her daughter would meet Albus very soon and at least she would know how Minerva saw him instead of how the world perceived him. So, with a steadying breath she began to speak of the love of her life.

“Your father is a brilliant man with so many wonderful characteristics and ideals that’s it’s hard to put them into words. He first caught my eye when I was very young and I fell in love with him almost instantly. He had a way of making me feel so special and like I could do anything I set my mind to.”

“Oh, kind of like the way you always believe in me?” Evie ventured to say.

“Yes, exactly like that. When we first started dating, he treated me like a queen, flowers, owls, candies, surprise outings late at night. He never ran out of ideas to pamper and delight me. He is one of the true romantics left in this world and I was very lucky to have him in my life, even if it was only for a short period of time. He used to call me his goddess and that’s exactly how he made me feel.”

“But I don’t understand. If he had made a mistake, why not confront him and then forgive him? If you loved him and he loved you, why did you break up? Love doesn’t stop just because things get rough. You didn’t stop loving me when I did things you didn’t like.”

“I’m afraid it’s not that simple, Petal. Sometimes you love somebody more than they love you. I suppose that’s what happened between your father and me. I would have done anything for him and yet he couldn’t make a few changes for me when it was all said and done. But you have to understand that it wasn’t entirely his fault. I suppose I was accustomed to being the sparkle in his eyes and when he became increasingly busy at work, I just didn’t feel as important to him anymore. Other things began to take up his time and I got pushed further and further down his list of priorities.”

“You still love him, don’t you?” Evie asked softly.

Minerva swallowed hard and closed her eyes as images of Albus Dumbledore flashed in her memory. Happy times they had shared together, the tender touches both during and after their lovemaking, the day she announced they were expecting along with so many more wonderful memories came crashing to the surface of her mind. She cupped her daughter’s face and stared into the eyes she had inherited from her father.

“Yes, my wee Petal, I do still love him very much. But I’m afraid I’ve been gone too long now to turn back the clock and win him back. He’s, no doubt, moved on with his life and even though he probably doesn’t love me the way I still love him, I’m sure he still cares deeply for you.”

“How can you be so sure of his feelings for me? You haven’t seen him in years. Besides that, how do you know he hasn’t regretted not coming after you and trying to win you back? I bet he regrets letting us go and wishes he could get you back.”

“I saw the look in his eyes the day you were born and believe me, you are his pride and joy. You are the little girl who made the mysterious twinkle in his eyes shine brighter than I’d ever seen it. In fact, you have his eyes and several other of his characteristics that you aren’t even aware of yet.”


“Really? Like what?” she asked eagerly.

“Oh, the way you approach life, always with a child’s eyes but still possessing the intelligence of a young lady. Your love for sweets and learning. Even some of the things you say remind me of him sometimes. But the most telling feature is your eyes. You have an uncanny knack of looking into a person’s eyes and making them feel as if you can see right through to their soul. He used to do that to me all the time and while it was comforting, it could also be very unnerving.”

Evie listened as her mother continued to talk about her father and she did not miss the obvious feelings connected with each memory or thought. It was clear to her that despite what had happened in their marriage, their mother still loved their father very much, maybe even more than she realized. And it was up to her and her twin to make sure that their parents saw the possibilities for a new future together.

Late that night, Evie sat at Abigail’s desk and wrote her sister a long letter, describing what she had learned from their mother and asking how things were going with their father. Sneaking out of the house, she found the family owl and sent her on her way to Hogwarts, carrying one of the most important letters either of them would ever see.

TBC…

[Too lazy to sigh in]

Great Update Girls

I really like how this story is progressing so keep up and the great work

[Kamdra]

This is going great. I am glad Minerva had a chance to spend the day with 'Abigail'. I hope they can get them together. Kammie

[Jaya]

Wonderful new chapter!

I can't wait for you to get the two stubborn adults together, much less see what Abie and Evie come up with!

Jaya ;D

[tayryn]

fly Owl fly!

now we gotta get Albus talking about Minerva... and then get them together... then kissage!! (sorry, sucker for kissing!)

waiting anxiously for more!!

[Sola]

This is soooooo awesome!
We finaly got to know more about the splitting.
But I'm noe uber-anxious to see them meeting at hogwarts!

Anyway...fantastic job!

Sola

[QuillofMinerva]

Chapter 11: Eavesdropping and Identity Revealed

By: Clayre

Abigail awoke with a start as an owl flew into her bedroom and landed on her bed. The owl dropped the letter into her lap and quickly flew out of the room. Eros opened his eyes and gave her ruffled look. It was his job to deliver post to her but someone hadn’t bothered asking him and he was hurt. It was only in the cold light of day that he noticed something different about Evie Dumbledore. He tipped his head and hooted softly, never breaking eye contact with her. Abigail felt slightly uneasy. He was looking at her with an inquisitive gaze. She knew that he knew she was not Evie but she also knew that her secret was safe with the owl. She smiled and stretched out her hand. Eros bumped his head against her hand and hooted softly before hopping onto her lap. Abigail smiled and picked up the letter that had arrived a few minutes ago and saw that the letter was from Evie.

A knock on the door interrupted her. Abigail quickly stuffed the note under her pillow. Albus Dumbledore opened the door and walked in. He had a bag of sherbet lemons in his hand and was quietly sucking on one. Abigail’s eyes lit up when she saw what he was carrying. She now knew where her love for the muggle sweet came from.

“Morning sweetpea,” he said greeting her with a kiss on the forehead. “Sleep well?”

“Yes thanks Papa,” she replied as she eyed the bag of sweets. Her mother would never let her have sweets before breakfast at home “Can I have one?”

Albus looked at his daughter with surprise. She was pointing to the bag of sherbet lemons. Albus had never known his daughter to ask for one of his sweets. In fact, he knew that she hated them just like her mother had.

“You want a sherbet lemon?” he asked her. He wanted to be sure he had understood her correctly.

“Papa, they are my favorite sweet in the world,” she replied thinking nothing of it “so of course I want one.”

Albus looked at his daughter and then at his bag of sweets before returning his gaze to Abigail. He was undoubtedly confused now. His daughter had just said she loved sherbet lemons. He handed her the bag and watched as she eagerly popped one into her mouth and closed her eyes, savouring the taste. He watched as she rooted around in the bag once more and pulled out three more sweets and put them on her bedside table.

“You have changed,” he said as he looked at her.

“What?” she asked as her eyes flew open in panic. “Why do you say that?”

“Well you seem more grown up,” he answered “and it seems you have finally discovered the ninth wonder of the world, the sherbet lemon, at last.”

Abigail looked at her father and then at the sherbet lemons on the bedside table. She suddenly realized that Evie must dislike their father’s favorite sweet. Abigail scolded herself under her breath. She should have waited to see if her father had offered her the bag of sweets.

“As you grow older,” she suddenly said, hoping that the answer would cover her tracks “your taste becomes heightened and you like to try new things!”

“Wise beyond your years,” he said with a grin. “Well I am over the moon that you like my sweets. I shall order double the amount now. Oh, your uncle is coming over again today. He wants to spend some more time with you before you attend Hogwarts as a student and forget all about him.”

“Oh I could never forget about Uncle Abe,” she answered. “He is unforgettable!”

“He seems to think he is,” answered Albus with a grin. “He is however, overly dramatic!”

Abigail laughed along with her father. It felt so right to be back in his presence at last. She finally felt whole and all she wanted to do now was be a proper family with her mother, her father and her sister. Albus kissed his daughter on the forehead again before telling her that he would see her at lunchtime. He had some work to do but he would soon be all hers as Armando Dippet was returning that afternoon. Abigail’s eyes twinkled madly as she heard him say the words. She would get to spend some proper time with him and that would give her the chance to question him more about her mother.

Her bedroom door opened again and in walked Aberforth. Abigail couldn’t get over how much the two brothers looked alike. She did think that her father was the slightly more handsome one but then she was biased. Aberforth sat on the other side of her bed and reached over and pressed her nose softly. Abigail giggled and as she squirmed, the pillow moved and Aberforth was able to get a clear view of the letter addressed to Abigail

Dumbledore.

Abigail looked at him and followed his eye line to where the letter was hiding. She looked at him and bit her lip. She waited for him to say something but nothing came. Her father made his excuses and left the uncle and niece together.

“Abby?” questioned Aberforth softly, his bottom lip wavering slightly as he searched his nieces face for answers.

Abigail couldn’t believe she had been discovered already. She had let herself down as well as her sister. Aberforth would make her tell him what was going on and then he would march her down to see her father. He would make her tell all and then she would be sent home back to her mother. Abigail loved her mother dearly and wanted to see her but she wanted to spend a little more time with her father.

“I knew it,” he gasped as a bright smile took over his confused face. “Our little Abigail. Oh Merlin, is it really you?”

“Yes,” she replied looking away “please don’t tell anyone just yet!”

“I’ll Dumbledore promise you,” he declared as he placed his hand over his heart “Abigail, you’re beautiful! Oh I am speechless! I always think about you and now you’re here. How in the name of Merlin?”

Abigail smiled and began to retell the story of how she and Evie had bumped into one another at Madam Malkin’s. She explained that they wanted to swap lives so they could find out about the parents they didn’t know and why their mother and father broken up. Abigail was over the moon that she was able to speak with someone about this. She didn’t feel quite so alone now. Aberforth had promised to keep her secret and even offered to help out when she needed help. He gave her a crash course in how to behave like Evie and told her that under no accounts must she like brussel sprouts. He explained that Evie wouldn’t eat anything off her plate if brussel sprouts had been on her plate. Abigail laughed and told her uncle that she hated them as well so there was no chance in her eating a bowl full of them.

“How is Minerva?” asked Aberforth in hushed tones.

“Mumma is okay,” she answered with a smile on her face. “She is the best and I am sure Evie is having a wonderful time.”

“Oh it’s been so long, too long,” he said as he pulled her into his arms and hugged her tight. “You have no idea how much you were missed!”

“Uncle Abe,” she questioned, “I don’t understand why we were parted.”

“Your mother took you,” explained Aberforth as he tried to recollect past memories. “To be honest I think she thought your father would go after her and bring you both back home. She needed to know how he felt but my brother, though powerful and intelligent, lacks common sense at times. He didn’t go after her. He thought it was wise to let her come back when she wanted to. As time went by, it became harder.”

“Why take me and not Evie?” asked Abigail.

“Well I don’t think she intended to be gone for so long,” answered Aberforth who was trying to grasp at straws. He wasn’t sure why Minerva had only taken one twin with her when she had run away. “I tried to convince my brother to go after her but he was adamant that she would return by the next day. From what I remember, you had been poorly and your Mum had taken you to see the medi-witch. Your father was looking after Evie and he got word that he was needed. I looked after Evie while your Dad prepared and that is all I know.”

“Did he love her?” she asked.

“Loved her more than anything,” answered Aberforth “but I don’t think he knew how to juggle his responsibilities to the wizarding world and his family. He was torn and he did neglect his family, especially his wife, but he didn’t mean to.”

Abigail nodded her head and smiled softly at her uncle. Things seemed a little clearer now but she hoped Evie had managed to get some information out of their mother. Aberforth and Abigail spent the morning together. They walked around the lake and played hide and seek around the school. Aberforth cheated though as he was able to use magic and if he had trouble finding her, he would pull out his wand and command Accio Abigail.

Later on that morning Abigail received word that Armando Dippet was back in charge of Hogwarts and her father was all hers until the next time he was needed. She hoped he wasn’t needed for a long time. She was making her way to her father’s office for lunch when she overheard some of the female members of staff talking about her and her father. She hid around the corner and listened. She had always liked to know what was being said. She was inquisitive, though her mother called her nosey at times.

“It’s sad a man like that has to be alone!” said Professor Meredith Archer. Abigail had come across her that morning and Aberforth had mentioned her name in passing.

“He has been alone for many years,” replied a dark haired witch that Abigail had never seen before.

“He has been single all the years I have been her and that’s nine years,” commented another witch with dark brown eyes. “Such a waste of a man.”

The three female professors giggled in a very unlikely professor type way. Abigail thought them to be rather silly and thought they acted like silly schoolgirls. Although they were annoying her, she wanted to know more about their conversation.

“He has a daughter,” said Archer. “She is lovely and a credit to him but I hear that he isn’t over his wife. Did she die?”

“I think she ran off with someone,” said the dark eyed witch.

“Was she mad?” gasped the dark haired witch. “Why would anyone want to run out on a man like him?”

“I guess it tells us that even a man like Albus Dumbledore isn’t all he seems to be,” Archer replied with a shrug of her shoulders.

Abigail was rooted to the spot. How dared they speak about her mother and father like that. They had no right to presume and make judgements without knowing the facts. Abigail was seething with anger but she knew she couldn’t do anything about it without blowing her cover or saying something that she might regret tomorrow.

“Well I think that he needs a woman in his life,” declared the brown eyes witch with a smile so bright that it could blind everyone within a five-mile radius. “So, I have decided to ask him out for a meal on Friday. It will do him some good and I am sure I will have a wonderful time.”

“I doubt he will even consider it Nicholette,” said Meredith Archer. “He lives in the past and that is not healthy.”

“Well I intend to bring him into the present and the future!” replied Nicholette with a wide smile. “Just watch and see!”

Abigail quickly turned on her heel and sped towards her bedroom. She had to alert her sister to the recent developments. What if their father said yes? There would be no chance of getting their parents back together. Abigail completely forgot about her lunch date with her father as she immersed herself into writing a letter to Evie.

To Be Continued

[griseldalafey]

Aww... thank goodness Aberforth knows now.

And noooo... Albus shouldn't start something with another woman... on the other hand, if she's as nice and nasty as the person I recall from the movie... ;D Bring her on!

Great update!

[Jaya]

NO NO NO!!!! Leave Vicki out of it....

Unless we somehow get a replay of the bra in the bathroom scene... and Minerva gets to give Albus a black eye...

Hmmm....

On second thought....

Great update!!!

More please!
Jaya

[JKMcGonagall]

Yeah. Ya gotta have Vickie, after all it is through her that they got back together. Great story!

Kay

[tayryn]

oh, i loved Aberforth's reaction when he realizes it's Abigail and not Evie with them. that was precious!

and i was never a big fan of the Vickie character in the movie... although i did love all the tricks the girls pulled on her, so am looking forward to that!

this was a wonderful update. looking forward to more!

[Kimberly]

This is really good. It took me a little while to catch up but I'm ready for another update now.

[Krystal]

Aberforth is just too cool. I love your characterization of him. Krys

[Stoneygem]

YAY update.... and Aberforth knows...waheeeee...

Now, we can bring on the interesting stuff...Albus talk about his Min and then September 1st and then the girls scare up so much stuff to get rid of all those vile women...and Min being called in for a parent-teacher-conference...

And then please the bra-scene and the black eye too and an excursion into the Forbidden Forest....

[ginger newts]

I almost missed this chapter. Great update, I knew Aberforth would be the one to figure them out. I'd completely forgotten about the evil step mother to be character until now, can't wait to see what the twins do to her.

[Lady Lavendar]

I loved this new chapter! Bring on the girlfriend! I cant wait to see that secne played out! Update soon!
LL

[bee.]

i am so ready for some sneaky pranks. and eventually the reunion...! this story is awesome, update soon.
ecks oh ecks oh,
[glow=yellow,2,300]bee[/glow]

[QuillofMinerva]

A Waltz Down Memory Lane: By Ang.

Minerva and Evie sat in the warm sunshine filtering through the opened window, playing a game of chess when an owl approached. Evie almost panicked when she realized that the letter must’ve been from Abigail. Surely it must be something important for her to send a letter this time of day and risk the exposure of their little plan. Thinking quickly on her feet, she lied to her mother and said that it was from the bookshop telling her that they had not been able to find the book on Albus Dumbledore that she had inquired about when she was there to get her schoolbooks. Stuffing the letter into her pocket, she tried to remain calm as she watched Minerva’s face.

At the mention of Albus, Minerva stiffened a bit and a cold wave washed over her. It was inevitable that their daughters would soon learn the secrets so well hidden that even the majority of the wizarding world could not confirm or deny their truth. But what scared her most was that her daughter already held a fascination for the man she would soon discover to be her father. Feeling the walls closing in around her, Minerva made a feeble excuse and promised to finish the game later then promptly went outside for a breath of fresh air.

She walked for almost half an hour before dropping to her knees as the first of her tears fell. Minerva tried her best not to cry in front of Abigail, for she knew it would only upset her daughter and make her ask painful questions. So, in the solitude of the sunshine and the cooling breeze, Minerva nestled against the large willow tree and poured her tears into her shaking hands.

The tears came slowly at first, one then another, joined by two or three until a steady stream of salty water was flowing from her eyes. Tears she had long thought were gone, now resurfaced, fresh and with more pain than the ones she had cried so many years ago. These were bitter tears of longing, mingled with hurt, anger and fright. Pulling the dainty white lace handkerchief she always kept tucked just inside the sleeve of her robes, she dabbed at her eyes and tried to stall the flood of tears as she thought over her life.

Memories of happier days came easily into her mind, forcing more of the tears to fall unbidden. As she regained her composure, Minerva noticed a small patch of wildflowers growing just an arm length away and she reached over, picking a few of them and inhaling their fragrance. Closing her eyes and smelling their familiar scent, she could almost believe she had been transported in time to another place much happier than her present state.

Albus had always loved to take Minerva on picnics, whether they were indoors or outdoors, it had never really mattered. There was something special to him about sitting around on a blanket and partaking of delicious foods while trying to steal kisses, touches, or even a cuddle. And Minerva had to willingly admit that he was a master at planning those wonderful interludes. She couldn’t count the number of times she had been surprised to find a picnic set up in her rooms late at night or find that her afternoon plans had been changed to accommodate an afternoon in the sunshine on a tartan blanket with Albus. And the wildflowers reminded her of a particularly wonderful picnic on a day such as this.

It was early summer and he had been away on some important matters. As usual when he was gone, Minerva worried about him but tried to remain as composed as possible. The anniversary of their first date was approaching and even though she truly doubted he’d remember, she silently wished him home and in her arms on that special day. When she woke that particular morning, it was to find a room filled with flowers and a single yellow daisy on the pillow beside her with a note.

Meet me in our private garden! I have a surprise for you. Your Beloved, Albus. P.S. Happy Anniversary My Dear.

Minerva smiled as she remembered how quickly she moved to dress that morning and then how she dashed across the expansive grounds to the little secluded spot they had claimed as their own private paradise. In her haste to reach him, Minerva has neglected to pull her hair back into a tie and it was flying freely out behind her as she ran at full speed into his arms, causing them both to tumble backwards into the wet grass still fresh with the morning dew.

The wildflowers in her hand reminded her of that special day for it was then, in that very moment that she knew that her heart belonged to Albus for as long as they both lived. As he gently made love to her beneath the rising sun, she took in every single detail of that morning, from the way the clouds overhead sailed by, to the song of the birds chirping happily, and the wildflowers, which created a soft bed upon which she gave herself to him. A longing she hadn’t felt in years began to surface within her as she lost herself in the memory of that blissful morning among the daisies.

Another series of memories flashed before her eyes as she moved from that glorious morning adventure to the same afternoon when he had asked her to marry him. She had eagerly accepted his proposal and then they had celebrated in style. Dinner at a quiet restaurant, dancing beneath the stars, and a night filled with even more passion than their morning adventure. She easily recalled thinking that life could never get any better than it was on that one day in her life.

Just to prove her wrong, though, the fates decided that she and Albus would be blessed with a bundle of joy all their own. But not long after learning of their new addition, they were overjoyed to learn that their happiness was to be doubled with the birth of twins. Minerva found herself giggling as she remembered the stunned look on Albus’ face as the medi-witch teased him about a job well done. It had taken him several minutes to recover from the shock, whether it was the teasing of the medi-witch or just the wonderful news, she was never really sure. From that moment on, he had made an even larger effort to ensure that she not overdo things and that her every craving and need was met.

The day the twins arrived, Albus had been away on another assignment from the Ministry. They seemed to call upon him more and more and with his duties at the school, she often found herself lonely and slightly nervous. He assured her that when the time came for his girls to be born, he’d be right by her side through it all. And, even though they had trouble tracking him down, he kept his promise. Before she reached the truly difficult stage of labor, he was there by her side, offering words of love, comfort, and encouragement. Just what she needed from the man she adored more than life itself.

As the first of their girls were born, Albus left her side just in time to catch the bright eyed little lass. When Minerva closed her eyes, she could still see the tears of joy in his blue eyes and the smile that threatened to split his face in half. But before he could get too caught up in inspecting Abigail, Evie was born and his happiness was instantly doubled, as was the love in his heart. That night, she lay safely in his arms, exhausted from her hard work but happier than words could ever express.

Now, she wondered if he ever thought of those days and the love they had shared. For her, there had never been another man in her life. It always was and would be Albus Dumbledore for her. Despite their separation, neither had filed for an official renunciation of their vows, a small comfort to her aching heart. Yet he had not bothered to come after her or their daughter, which surprised her. No owls, no contact through the floo network, not even a word passed along though an innocent helper. It was as if their love had all been a dream.

When she left, she took Abigail with her. Not because she was choosing one daughter over the other, but because young Abigail had been ill. Thinking that Albus would search the world over until he found them, she never truly worried about never seeing her other young daughter again. Then as the hours passed and there was no word or even a sign that he might be searching for her, her hopes were dashed. But, she was never one to give up hope entirely and for a solid week, she fully expected him to walk through the door at any given moment and demand answers and her return to their home. Unfortunately, that day never came and she had to face that fact that perhaps he did not love her as he once had.

For the past ten years, Minerva had scanned the papers, especially the society pages, for any news of Albus and a new lover. And each week, she thanked the deities for another week with no news of his amorous adventures. She hoped that meant he still had feelings for her, despite their long separation, but being the courageous and level headed woman she prided herself to be, she did not dare to count too much on that dream. For that was what it would seem if he waltzed back into her life…a wonderful dream.

But what of Evie? How had Albus managed to raise their daughter when he barely had time for his work? She completely trusted Albus’ judgment and believed he would never neglect their daughter but sometimes he just became too distracted with trying to save the world or making sure those who could cause harm were dealt with accordingly. After all, that was one of the reasons she had left him. He had time for everyone else except his family and she just couldn’t take it any longer.

Minerva often wondered if Evie hated her for all those years of separation. While Abigail was the light of her world, there was a large part of her heart missing and she wasn’t sure if she would ever receive that love and devotion in return. Not knowing what Albus had told Evie about her or the reasons she had left, ate away at Minerva daily. If he had told their daughter about her mother and sibling, she could only logically conclude that Evie wanted nothing at all to do with them. And if he hadn’t divulged information about them, just as she had neglected to do with Abigail, what would happen when the girls met for the first time at Hogwarts?

Then fear gripped her heart in a new way and with such force she gasped for a breath as the full impact finally resounded through her head. In a few short weeks, Abigail would be packed up and sent to Hogwarts. Once the girls met, there would have to be a meeting between the Dumbledore family for the girls would need answers to no doubt hundreds of questions. And that meant seeing Albus again for the first time in nearly a decade.

It also meant that she would be able to see her other daughter for the first time in years and with some time and a lot of patience, hopefully Evie would give her mother a second chance, just like she hoped Abigail would do for Albus. She would finally be able to hold both her daughter’s in her arms, kiss their soft cheeks and watch as they finished growing up together. Of course that meant another set of problems to be dealt with in the very near future. What would happen over the summers and what would it all mean for her strained relationship with Albus? With a new wave of fear and tears, Minerva cried out for help in repairing her mistakes and praying for forgiveness from the daughter she longed to see once more.

Little did she know that the young girl was closer than she ever expected. Evie had worried about her mother and after quickly reading the letter sent by Abigail regarding the plot to seduce their father, she decided it might be time to confess all and hope for the best. At least Minerva would be forced to see him again to straighten out the mess the girls had caused and that was something. But Evie had not planned to find her mother in such a state of unhappiness and for the first time in her young life, she came to somewhat understand why adults always spoke of loving someone until it hurt for it was clear that Minerva loved both Evie and Albus, not to mention Abigail, until her heart was nearly crumbling into tiny pieces.

Silently, she watched Minerva dry her tears and regain her composure. She heard her speak softly, catching only fragments here and there as they floated on the breeze. There were words intended for Albus’ ears, no doubt filled with hurt and anger but more importantly love. Then there were some thoughts directed towards Evie. Though she couldn’t hear the message, her heart told her it was one of love. And then there were some for Abigail, no doubt asking for forgiveness for keeping her away from her father and sister. Once she was sure her mother was going to be fine, she quietly walked back to the house and up to her room. She had a lot of things to decide and very little time in which to make those hard decisions.

Evie knew the woman mentioned in Abigail’s letter and she knew just how persistent the woman could be when she wanted something. And it had not escaped her eyes how the witches looked at and fawned over her father. It was something she heard her father joke about with Aberforth once or twice but he always pushed away his admirers. But this woman was different. She could pose a real threat to the happiness of their family, not because Albus might fall for her charms but simply because she could make their mother believe he had moved on with his life.

With a whirlwind of thoughts and scenarios running through her head, Evie tried to think of the best way to introduce herself to her mother. It would be a shock and no doubt there would be tears and a reunion, but they were running out of time. Though she would have loved to spend more time alone with the woman who had fascinated her for years, that was no longer a luxury she or Abigail could afford. They had to rescue their father from the claws of that other woman and see him safely back in Minerva’s arms, where they all truly belonged.

To Be Continued…

[snowcat]

wow.

[JKMcGonagall]

AN UPDATE...AN UPDATE...AN UPDATE...You made my morning. Imagine my delight to find that this story had been updated. I only check it everyday. Shows I like it.

I agree with snowcat...WOW!

This story just gets better and better, and more complicated all the time. Abby and Evie are going to have to do something soon. They can't let that other witch get her "claws" in Albus.

Wonderful portrayal of Min's mixed feelings toward Albus. She still loves him. Yea!

Update soon, please!

Kay

[Herzele]

Yay, an update !!
This story is great ! I can't wait to see what happens once Albus and Minerva meet again !

[Kimberly]

I loved reading about Minerva's memories, very vivid. Kim

[Kamdra]

I'm glad you updated. I think the girls are going to have a hard time with the girlfriend.

[Alesia]

I have to admit I hadn't read this story until today and I am soo sorry I haven't. You all have done fabulous work with this plot. I applaud the way you have tailored it to fit in with AD/MM. It doesn't carry any of the stale bits that some of the bad parent trap stories carry. WELL DONE. I can't wait to see how Evie tells Minerva she is who she is.

[Kacie]

I'm so glad you updated. When I'm up with the baby late at night, I love to read her your stories. Kacie

[tayryn]

and it continues! i cannot wait to read about Minerva's reaction to finding out it's Evie with her and not Abigail!!

i loved Minerva's memories as well. very nicely done!!

looking forward to more!!

[QuillofMinerva]

A/N: We are both over the moon that you are enjoying this story. We are having a great time writing it and we want AD/MM back together as much as you do! Enjoy!

Chapter Thirteen: Quills and Dates by Clayre

Abigail sat in her father’s office, watching him work away. She watched with interest as his bright purple quill scribbled across the parchment at lightening speed. It was a beautiful quill and Abigail had been admiring it since she arrived.

“Papa,” she asked, “how did you get that quill?”

“Evie,” he said looking up from was his work, “you seem to have lost your memory.”

“I just like to hear the story!” she quickly replied. It was getting harder and harder each day to act like Evie would.

Albus Dumbledore laid the quill down on the desk and packed away his ink pot and spare pieces of parchment. He stood up from his chair and made his way over to where his daughter was sitting. He sat beside her on the couch and wrapped an arm around her.

“It is an everlasting quill,” he told her “and it was given to me by a very special woman.”

“My mother?” asked Abigail.

Albus closed his eyes and nodded silently. The quill, Evie and his memories were all that he had left of his beloved wife. He had loved her so much. She had been his everything but he hadn’t realized that he had been taking her for granted. He spent most of his time working away from home because he felt he was the only one who could bring the downfall of Grindelwald and his followers. Even when he was at home with her, he would be working and she would be looking after the twins.

Albus’ marriage had failed because he hadn’t bothered to put in any effort to keep it going. He had been living in denial that Minerva was unhappy with the situation and he had told himself that once dark magic had been brought under control, things would be better. He missed his other daughter as well and was so looking forward to the start of the new school year. At last he would be able so see what type of young woman she had grown up to be. He also had to talk to Evie about her sister so it wouldn’t be so much of a shock. He had no idea what to say. Maybe he should write to Minerva and see how she was handling the situation but then he had never sent any of the notes he had written to Minerva since she had fled from him. The letters were all locked away in a small box that was placed under his bed along with their wedding rings.

Abigail was watching her father closely. She could tell he was deep in thought and she didn’t attempt to break the silence that had engulfed the room. She was touched that he was still using the quill that her mother had bought him and she was sure that it meant something. She knew he still loved her.

A knock on the door broke into Albus’ thoughts and he sighed with annoyance. He didn’t want Evie and himself to be disturbed. Recently Albus had been feeling very guilty about not spending as much time with his daughter as he should be. He had finished the paperwork he had needed to do and had planned to devote the rest of the day with his daughter.

“Come in!” he called out as he shot his daughter an apologetic look.

The door was pushed opened and to Abigail’s horror it was the witch who had said that she was going to ask her father out on a date. Nicholette Cline was the Charms professor. She had dark colored eyes and brown wavy hair that bounced off her shoulders. She wasn’t a particularly tall witch but she was slim and very feminine. Abigail felt herself inch closer to her father and she couldn’t stop herself from glaring at the Charms professor.

“Professor Cline,” greeted Albus as he stood up and smiled “what brings you here?”

Nicholette Cline flashed him a bright smile. The whiteness of her teeth made Abigail flinch from the brightness.

“Well,” she replied as she walked forward and stood within inches of him “it’s actually more what I can do for you.”

Albus looked intrigued and wondered what Nicholette Cline could do for him. He raised an eyebrow as he glanced sideways to look at his daughter. He was surprised to find her glaring at the woman standing near him.

“What can you do for me, then?” questioned Albus.

“I have noticed that you have been working so hard and that you haven’t made time for yourself,” she began. “So some of us are going out on Friday evening for a few drinks and a bite to eat at the Three Broomsticks and we wondered if you would like to join us.”

“That would be very nice,” answered Albus with a friendly smile. Having a night out with his colleagues would do him some good and Evie could spend the evening with Aberforth.

Nicholette clapped her hands together and smiled brightly “Wonderful!”

Nicholette explained the details and before Albus could have seconds thoughts she was gone. Nicholette was extremely pleased with herself. She was going to spend the evening alone with Albus Dumbledore. She had known that if she had asked him to accompany her to the pub, he would have politely refused so she had told a little white lie and told him that there would be others. She couldn’t wait to tell the other ladies about her big plans for Albus Dumbledore.

Back in the office, Albus sat down next to his daughter and tapped her playfully on the nose. Abigail smiled sweetly but couldn’t help but wonder what the Charms professor was up to. Abigail was sure that she had heard her informing the two other female professors that she wanted to date the Deputy Headmaster.

“Sweetpea,” he asked, “are you okay?”

“I don’t like Professor Cline,” she voiced her opinion.

“But why,” inquired Albus, who was confused slightly but then he was hit by a sudden realization. “It’s not a date darling. Just a group of colleagues going out for a drink. You are still my number one and only girl!”

Abigail smiled and hoped that he was right. She didn’t want Nicholette Cline getting in the way as she tried to get her parents back together so they could all be a family. Abigail wondered if Evie had read her letter yet. She knew that she would have to write another one to her to update her on the date situation. Abigail missed her mother and wanted to be reunited with her as soon as possible. She also wanted to remain with her father and sister. Abigail knew that the only way to prevent Professor Cline from becoming a permanent fixture in their lives was to tell her father about the switch.

Abigail excused herself from her father’s office and told him that she needed to get a few things from her room before they go and have their picnic near the lake. Abigail dashed down the corridor and came to an abrupt halt when she heard excited whispers.

“I told him that a group of us is going out for drink and something to eat on Friday,” whispered Nicholette.

“But there isn’t.” said Meredith.

“Precisely,” laughed Nicholette. “It will be just the two of us and I promise you that I am going to make him forget all about that witch who left him alone with a daughter to bring up.”

Abigail glared in the direction of the two witches huddled together in the hallway. She definitely had to do something now. She needed to write an urgent owl to her sister and they needed to come clean about the swap.

To be continued

[Alesia]

Ohh, this is getting really good. I want to see the look on Professor's Cline's face when Minerva shows up with Evie. (hehehehe, yes I am evil) the reactions of Albus and Minerva upon finding they have the 'wrong' daughter has huge potential. I can't wait to see what you do with it!

[Herzele]

Great !!
I so hope Albus and Min will soon meet again ... Can't wait to see what happens then ...