One Dance At A Time

[Hogwarts Duo]

Chapter 3

“Minerva McGonagall!”

Her mother and father had told her all about the sorting ceremony so she was more prepared than most first-years. Even knowing what would happen, she was still a bit nervous at the prospect of a wizard’s hat being able to see into her thoughts, but she was never one to argue with hundreds of years of tradition.

Making her way to the stool, she took a deep breath and waited as the Deputy Headmaster placed the tattered garment on her head. Her gaze caught Mr. Dumbledore’s whose twinkling eyes were watching her from the head table. She had searched him out when she had first entered the room knowing he would be teaching her. She had greatly anticipated seeing him again and felt her cheeks warm with his gaze steadily watching her. Her thoughts were snapped back to the here and now by a voice inside her head.

Well, well, well. I see that I have a McGonagall in my presence. I remember sorting your parents. Let’s see…Harold was in Gryffindor and Athena was in Ravenclaw. Both noble houses and worthy of honor. Now we must choose the correct house for you. If you are ready, I will proceed. Minerva shifted a bit in the seat as the wise magical object continued.

I see you have a desire for learning, oh yes. You have read many, many books, most of which were above the recommended reading level for those entering Hogwarts. Very impressive for such a young age. And what’s this I see…a sharp wit to add to that. I sense that you would be able to hold your ground in any situation, given your vast command of the language. You would make an excellent addition to Ravenclaw and your mother would be so pleased. But there is more to life than a sharp wit and a love of knowledge.

Here in your mind, I can see that you are one of the bravest at heart, regardless of your age and experiences in life. You possess an inner strength and a desire to right the wrongs of the world. Those qualities combined would earn you an honored position in Gryffindor. You have never been afraid to speak your mind and the thought of danger does not frighten you as it does most children. You have made your father proud. But back to your house…such a difficult decision. Let me ponder a moment longer.

The seconds slowly marched by and Minerva could do nothing but wait. She could feel the eyes of every single person on her and it made her uncomfortable to be the center of attention. The quiet humming from the hat did nothing to calm her nerves and the butterflies in her stomach were going mad. After what seemed an eternity, the hat asked a question of her that others might have to think about but she did not hesitate in her answer.

Tell me, Miss McGonagall, which would give you more pleasure: having an adventure in life or reading about the adventures of others in a book? Silently, she answered the Sorting Hat without any reservations.

“I would rather have my own adventures and then when I am older, I might write them down for others to read. Does that answer your question?”

Indeed, indeed. I believe you will be a perfect fit in the house of “Gryffindor!”

Minerva sat motionless, unsure if the hat had told the entire school of its’ decision or simply her. Upon realizing that a group of students at one of the long tables had started clapping, she jumped from the stool and made her way to join her classmates. It wasn’t until later in the evening that she discovered that her Head of House was none other than Mr. Dumbledore, or Professor Dumbledore, as she would now call him.

Since she had always been a morning person, Minerva rose with the sun. Part of her was nervous about her first day of classes but the other part was excited about learning so many new things. As she hurriedly made her way to the Great Hall for breakfast, she was so preoccupied that she failed to notice the tall, auburn haired man rounding the corner until it was too late.

Crashing into her Head of House, Minerva’s cheeks flushed as she quickly offered an apology and an explanation. “Professor Dumbledore! I am so very sorry. I was in a rush to get to breakfast and I was attempting to memorize my schedule of classes for today. I wasn’t looking where I was going and…”

Holding up a hand to silence the flustered girl, Minerva noticed a curling of his mouth into a smile. She did not expect him to yell at her, as she felt some of the other professors might have done, but she didn’t anticipate him making a joke from it either.

“Miss McGonagall, it was an accident and I wish all of our students were as eager to jump into their studies. I am sure you will have a wonderful year and I look forward to seeing you in class later this morning. I trust you will also embrace your extracurricular activities with the same enthusiasm as you do your classes. Now, would you care to walk with me to the Great Hall for breakfast?”

Surveying him momentarily, she had a hard time finding her voice. All sorts of feelings were running through her mind and her knees seemed to have gone weak. She had been excited, nervous, flustered, and embarrassed all at the same time and she was sure that he would notice the pink hue in her cheeks. Taking a deep steadying breath she relaxed her face and produced a broad smile. After testing her voice slightly, she agreed to accompany him to breakfast and the two made their way to the Great Hall.

The morning classes were very boring for the intelligent witch and she feared that this year would not be challenging enough to hold her interests. That was, of course, until she went to her first transfiguration class with Professor Dumbledore. He started class by going around the room and changing various inanimate objects into other things, some moveable, some motionless. After their curiosities were peaked, he began to explain the rudimentary skills necessary in performing such feats of magic.

Minerva was captivated and her thoughts drifted back to the first time she had encountered the man before her. She remembered him telling her about being able to turn himself into an owl and it was at that moment, that she decided this would be her favorite class. That was, of course, before she tried to do her first transfiguration: a button to a sherbert lemon. It took three tries before she was completely successful and that did not amuse her at all. She was a perfectionist and it frustrated her with the amount of time it took. When Professor Dumbledore praised her for her efforts, she slightly scoffed at his words. She failed to see how he could be impressed with her failed attempts when it took him no time at all to do so much more.

“Miss McGonagall. You should be very proud of yourself. This is your first class and you have already managed to do what others in your year cannot. If you will notice, many of your classmates are still struggling to transfigure their buttons. Just because something appears easy, does not make it so.”

She was unsure if she should feel ashamed at being admonished or pleased with his compliment. She decided to take his words to heart and by the end of the year she would be his star pupil.

Over the next couple of months, Minerva made tremendous marks in all of her classes but there was one in particular in which she excelled. She seemed to be remarkably talented in her transfiguration studies. After that first taxing day, things seemed to come much easier to her. And she found that she was the recipient of praise and points on a weekly basis from her favorite professor.

Professor Dumbledore being pleased with her progress made her very happy. She found that a simple comment on how smoothly her quill turned into a sock could brighten her day. In addition to his praise during class, she had also received compliments from some of her other teachers on her abilities and gifts in the art of transfiguration. Minerva suspected that she had been the topic of conversation in the staff lounge on more than one occasion.

In her efforts to make her parents proud and to continue making wonderful grades, Minerva spent many hours in the library. If she wasn’t studying for a quiz or doing her homework, she was seeking out books on various subjects to read for pleasure or helping her fellow classmates with their homework. When she did choose to read, they were typically texts suited for those older than her and their main focus was on the art of becoming an animagus. Since her first conversation with the man known as “Mr. Dumbledore,” she had been fascinated by the possibility of harnessing such power and skill and it would be necessary to learn more in order to achieve her goal. The only time she took a break from her studies was during the quidditch matches. She enjoyed sitting with her friends in the stands and cheering for the Lions and nothing compared to the victory parties thrown afterwards. The years seemed to pass quickly and the longer Minerva attended Hogwarts, the more it felt like her home.

It was nearly Christmas during Minerva’s fourth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and everyone was excited about the upcoming holidays. The students were becoming harder to control in classes as everyone found themselves daydreaming about the time off and the Yule Ball which would take place that weekend. Minerva’s fellow classmates were the most enthusiastic students as it was their first time to be able to attend the dance, at least without a date from a later year.

However Minerva had not planned to attend, as she had always hated these types of social gatherings. Her mother and father had encouraged her to at least put in an appearance and even told her stories about attending the festive ball in their days. However, she had no desire to waste an entire evening standing around watching others dance and mingle. Instead, she thought she would enjoy the peace and quiet of the common room for a change. But her plans had changed suddenly with a chance meeting in the hallway.

“Xiomara Hooch, I will not tell you again. I do not intend to go to the party. I would much rather spend my time reading or studying. Besides, I don’t even have a date and I am not going to sit around waiting for someone to ask me to dance.” Just as her friend was about to offer a thousand reasons why Minerva should attend, she turned to walk away and bumped into Professor Dumbledore. Looking flustered and slightly angered, she attempted to greet him with a smile but he looked as though he was saddened.

“Miss McGonagall. What is this I hear about you not attending the Yule Ball?” Repeating her plans to her head of house, she waited for him to commend her on her wise use of time. Instead, he caught her completely by surprise. “I am sorry to hear that you will not be attending this year. I had hoped to see you there.” Minerva noticed a twinkle in his eyes that she had seen before. She remembered seeing it the first time they had danced together at her parent’s home and again when they met in France, but this time something seemed different about it.

“Professor, I do not have a date for the dance and I would feel completely out of place. All of my friends are taking mates and I do not wish to stand around all evening wishing to participate. It would be absolutely no fun at all. I am sure you remember how boring dances can be. I seem to recall a conversation we had in France about the overall distaste for these types of things.”

“Ah, I have not forgotten that evening. As a matter of fact, that was the best dance I had all night. Alas, if you do not attend, I am afraid there will be several people disappointed by your absence. I would consider it a favor if you would reconsider. And I would not worry about having to stand idly by watching others have all of the fun. I am sure you will be flooded with dance offers. Trust me, Miss McGonagall.”

Minerva watched him walk away slowly as his words kept ringing in her ears. Xiomara, who wanted to know all about meeting their professor in France and how they had become so personally acquainted, snapped her back to reality by dozens of questions. Minerva tried to briefly explain the situation but her friend had a strange look in her eyes.

“Mervie, I think you had better make an appearance at the dance! I have a feeling that this could get very interesting. After all, I bet it isn’t everyday the head of Gryffindor House personally requests a student to attend the ball. And we have always remarked on his good looks and personality.”

Later that evening, as she tried to sleep, Minerva couldn’t help but think back to their discussion in the hallway. It had been as if he were asking her to attend the ball just for him. That thought made the butterflies in Minerva’s stomach begin to flutter about and she found herself reliving the dance they shared on a moonlit beach in France. At the time, it was perfectly innocent and he had treated her as a young lady and had done nothing out of line. However, she had grown into a mature young adult and the thought of dancing with him again caused her head to swim with ideas. It was then that she decided to go to the bash, just to see what might happen.

The Saturday of the Yule Ball arrived and everyone had dressed in their best robes and made extra efforts to look their finest. Even Minerva chose a stunning set of emerald green robes that matched her eyes and allowed Hooch to arrange her hair into an elegant braid. In looking at the mirror, Minerva could not believe that she was actually going to this stupid gathering but if it meant seeing Professor Dumbledore smile at her, then it was what she had to do.

She had taken her time in making her way down the corridors. Her friends had all gone with their dates and Minerva did not want to be a third wheel. Instead, she chose to meet them at a designated time near the punch bowl. As she entered the Great Hall, Minerva did not notice the young males who took second glances at her lovely features. Instead, she scanned the room for any sign of Professor Dumbledore. When she did not immediately see him, she made her way to the corner of the room and waited for her friends to find her.

Two dances later, Minerva still had not spied her companions or her transfiguration professor. No longer willing to waste her precious time, she headed for the door but was stopped by a familiar voice.

“I do hope you were not planning to disappear just yet. I noticed that you have not even shared one dance this evening and it would be a pity to take your leave without gracing the dance floor.”

Minerva felt her face flush and all coherent thoughts float from her mind. She did not know what to say, only that she wanted to stare into his eyes forever. Searching for words, she told him that she had put in her appearance and now wished to retreat to the common room to read a book.

“Ah yes. Well, I was hoping a young lady with pretty green eyes would honor me with a dance this evening. Do you think that is possible?” Extending his hand, she immediately took it and before long, she found herself being whirled about the Great Hall.

Minerva could not remember a time when she had felt so many conflicting emotions all at once. She was flattered that her teacher had wanted to share a dance, embarrassed that her classmates would see them, worried at what they might say or think, but most of all she felt magnificent. As he gracefully guided them through the motions, she inhaled deeply and sighed when she realized that he still smelled of lemon drops and chocolate. When her eyes met his, the entire room faded away and in Minerva’s mind, they were the only two people in the world. As the dance ended, she hated to leave his side. He made her feel so wonderful and so grown-up. Before escorting her from the dance floor, he bowed to her in a gentlemanly fashion, thanked her for the dance and placed a chaste kiss upon her delicate hand.

Hours later, in her own warm bed, Minerva brought her hand to her lips and lightly brushed it against her own mouth. She got a warm feeling inside her when she remembered the way he had danced with her and when he had kissed her hand, she melted. Now more than ever, she wanted to become an animagus, especially if that meant spending more time with him. Drifting off to sleep, she pictured his face in her mind and she slipped off to dream of the man who made her feel so alive and beautiful.

A/N: Thanks for all of the wonderful reviews. You make writing so much fun for us! Unrelated to our story, we wanted to encourage each of you to check out the new role-playing board that was created by Clayre aka Quill of Minerva at thefinestschool.proboards76.com/index.cgi? We are having loads of fun and are looking for more students.

Come by, take a look around and say hello! We hope you will decide to stay, creating your own character and being sorted into your house.

Ang (Albus Dumbledore) & Lisa (Severus Snape)

[QuillofMinerva]

Oh I enjoyed what the sorting hat said to Minerva

I am really enjoying seeing their relationship grow this way. Keep up the fantastic work and so looking forward to the next chapter

love

Clayre xx

[EloquentPhoenix]

I love the slow and even development of the story, allowing us to always see and believe in the characters. I love this story

[Jessabelle]

hogwartsduo said:

Chapter 3

"Well, I was hoping a young lady with pretty green eyes would honor me with a dance this evening."

I absolutely love this line and how you keep using! I hope you will continue to!
This fic. just keeps getting better, I quite like the way it is progressing. Please keep up the great work and post again soon!
- Jess

[ginger newts]

I so love seeing the progression of their relationship through dances. Every chapter is better than the last. It's so fun seeing Minerva with a proper schoolgirl crush.

Keep up the great work, ladies.

[tanja]

i´m really looking forward to the next chapters of this story, especially the one Yule Ball we all know from the movie

[TheGryffindorSeeker]

Brillant!. loving how this is going. Great work, keep it up

[tayryn]

and yet another wonderful chapter, ladies!!

this is a delightful way to look at the growth of Albus and Minerva's relationship...

looking forward to the next chapter!

[angeldust]

Oh this story is so lovely I loved the sorting hats conversation

[Alesia]

I really like the way you have chosen to handle the school girl crush, it isn't the 'head over heals in love with him forever' plot line but a little itch on the back of her neck to keep him in her head. I like it and am interested in seeing the next dances as Minerva matures.

[bee.]

I absolutely love this story. The evolution of their relationship is written perfectly, especially with the age factor.

And I agree with Jessabelle on my adoration of this phrase:

"Well, I was hoping a young lady with pretty green eyes would honor me with a dance this evening."

It completely lights my face up, and I hope to read of the next chapter soon!
ecks oh ecks oh ecks oh,
bee

[blackstar]

Oh.. I looking so forward to the next update. I love this story.

It is so cute. And interessting.

Pleas update soon

blackstar

[Herzele]

Great update ! This dance - idea is just so wonderful ! I love it !

[Hogwarts Duo]

Chapter 4

Minerva McGonagall woke for the morning as the sun was just beginning to rise over the trees. She slid out of bed and wrapped herself in her favorite silk robe. Crossing to the window, she sat upon the ledge and looked out over the landscape, which had been her home for the past seven years. Today she would graduate from Hogwarts and start a new part of her life. However, even with her exams completed and her future looking so very promising, her heart ached.

There were many things which she could blame for her pain. She would miss the school and all that it had come to mean to her. Her years there were more than she had ever hoped or dreamed they would be. She would miss her friends. She realized that once they left this place, their friendships would never be the same. It would be hard to retain the same closeness when you lived so far apart and were pursuing different dreams. And lastly, with the war against Grindelwald reaching new levels, she knew it was a dangerous time. So many lives had been lost and she and her friends were about to be thrust into the thick of it with little to no knowledge of all that had been happening.

The students were for the most part shielded from the atrocities of what went on in the outside world. A decision she had fought against during her tenure as Head Girl. However, the Board of Governors and Headmaster had been adamant that war had no place in a school. So now the graduating class would find themselves entering a world which was very different from the one they imagined and she could only hope that they would all survive it.

And even though those reasons alone could easily account for her melancholy mood, Minerva knew that what was truly at the heart of her sadness was the fact that Professor Dumbledore was absent from the school.

In the last couple of years, Professor Dumbledore had been taking leave from his duties more and more often. Minerva knew it was due to the war and that he was a leader in the movement against Grindelwald. However, she had always pictured him standing at the front of the Great Hall while she received her diploma, his blue eyes twinkling with pride. She admitted to herself that it was very selfish to want him here just for her when the war was more important. But she could not help the feelings in her heart. She was in love, or as Xia put it, in full crush mode, for her professor and even though she would never acknowledge it to anyone, save her best friend, she felt like she had been left standing at the altar. Or at the very least, as if her date for the Yule Ball had stood her up.

The young witch was snapped from her thoughts by the banging of the large oak door that permitted entrance into her room. Instantly, she was greeted by the constant chattering of her best friend.

“You will never believe what I just found out from Eddie!” Xia bounced onto Minerva’s bed giving her a joyful smile.

Trying to hide her solemn mood from the insightful witch, Minerva forced a smile of her own. “And what gossip could Eddie possibly have heard? Are you sure he didn’t make it up?”

“Very funny Minerva. He may not be the most reliable source but he heard this from his sixth year Ravenclaw girlfriend, you remember Mary from the last Hogsmeade weekend. Well she is very reliable. In fact lots of my information has come by way of her of late.”

Exasperated beyond words at the interruption, especially one that Minerva had already deemed as completely without merit, she interrupted Xia before she could get any more off track. “The rumor Xia? I do have to get ready soon.”

“Sorry Min.” Xia gave her a curious look but continued without further prompting. “Eddie heard from Mary who heard from Penny who was with her boyfriend at the time, hidden in an alcove I might add, that Professor Dumbledore returned to the school just this morning.”

Xia smiled to herself happily at the announcement of the news while Minerva tried to control her now racing pulse. Her heart had started pounding at the mention of her professor’s name. Dare she believe it to be true? Rumors were very common at Hogwarts with most of them being exaggerated versions of the truth or complete and outright lies.

“Well don’t you have anything to say?”

Minerva gulped and tried to clear her head of all the emotions swirling around. “What if it isn’t true?”

Xia got up and came to sit beside Minerva on the ledge. She felt her best friends arms wrap around her. “Of course it is true Min. Professor Dumbledore would never miss your graduation. You are his prized student and I think…well, you know what I think.”

Minerva felt her heart warm at the witch’s words. She knew Xia believed Professor Dumbledore thought of her as more than just a student. A completely unjustified view and one Minerva thought Xia maintained just to give her hope. And she loved her for it.

After several spirited moments more of random gossip, Xia remembered something she had promised the flying instructor that she would do before graduation. Running off to take care of the task, she told Minerva that she’d meet her later for breakfast in the Great Hall. As the door closed a little too loudly, Minerva started to genuinely smile for the first time that day. Suddenly, with the spark of hope given to her by her best friend, her graduation didn’t seem so bad after all.

After hurrying through her morning routine and checking one last time to make sure every single hair was in place and that she looked her utmost best, Minerva dashed down the stairs as if Gryffindor Tower was on fire. Xiomara was just returning to the castle as Minerva flew down the last flight of stairs and practically bumped right into her best friend. Luckily, Xiomara saw Minerva’s focus was not on those around her but on the doors leading to the Great Hall so she easily sidestepped any collision which might have been rather embarrassing for both of them.

“Settle down, Min. He came back just for you so I doubt he’s going anywhere soon,” Xia teased.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m merely in a hurry to get to breakfast. I’m starving and today is a big day. I don’t have time to dawdle.” Minerva knew better than to try and fool the one person besides Albus Dumbledore who knew her better but she had to try. Feeling particularly brave, she dared to look her hawk-eyed friend squarely in the eyes and without another word being shared between them, they both burst into laughter.

Locking arms together, they walked to the entrance to the Great Hall, each lost deep in thought. They stood there for a solid moment, trying to memorize the way the hall looked, the smell of the food, even the mindless chatter of hundreds of their classmates. But for Minerva there was really only one thing she wanted to remember perfectly. She glanced up at the Head Table. There he sat and her heart jumped into her throat.

“I told you he was back. My sources never lie,” Xia chided as she ushered Minerva towards the table. As only her best friend would think to do, Xiomara made sure Minerva had an unobstructed view of the Head Table, and in particular, one Albus Dumbledore. “Consider it my gift to you this morning,” she winked, watching Minerva’s eyes dart back and forth from the food on the table to her professor so close but so far away.

The morning activities for the graduates occupied most of Minerva’s time. She had hoped to steal a few moments for herself and perhaps seek out her professor but there simply wasn’t time. Her heart felt lighter than it had in weeks, just seeing him and knowing that he was alive and well but she longed for just one more quiet moment, one more softly spoken word. She would just have to make sure she saw him before the train departed, taking her away for the last time when it left.

The graduation ceremony itself was something to rival any fancy political gathering, in Minerva’s mind. The Great Hall had been decorated to perfection and with the tables removed it seemed much larger than usual, even larger than the nights when they held special balls or other social events.

A tremendous burst of trumpets sounded from somewhere out of the blue, causing Minerva to jump in her seat. Her heart began to race wildly, thinking that this was it. The moment she had worked so hard towards for seven years was finally here and within the hour, she would be a graduate of Hogwarts, not a student any longer. Two by two the faculty and staff of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry filed past the graduates. But for Minerva, there was only one man that interested her.

Albus Dumbledore marched alongside Headmaster Dippet, leading the procession of distinguished teachers. Silver celestial bodies moved brilliantly across the lapis blue fabric of his robes, which contrasted beautifully with his auburn hair. Her heart beat slightly faster as she imagined how his eyes would reflect the blue of his robes. She could easily lose her soul in those eyes and never once regret it for a second. Just then, as he neared her, Albus turned his head, locking eyes with her for a brief instance. He smiled, showing just the hint of his pearly white teeth and if she had blinked she might have missed the surreptitious wink he sent in her direction.

Minerva’s cheeks burned warmly and she felt her lips curling into a smile as he passed. From that moment on, her eyes were locked on him; never once wavering for fear she might miss another furtive glance directed at her. She was so caught up in her mission to memorize every single line on his face that she almost missed her name being called to receive several awards for her achievements. A quick nudge by her best friend was the only thing that saved her from total embarrassment.

When Minerva stepped up onto the raised dais towards the podium in the shape of a magnificent bird in flight, she discovered how overwhelming it felt to stand behind the amazing creation. No matter how many times she had seen the platform used in the various ceremonies at Hogwarts she always likened the bird to Albus’ familiar, Fawkes. On several occasions, she tried to picture what Albus would look like standing behind the podium as Headmaster. No doubt he would make a striking figure, easy on the eyes and the soft timbre to accompany it.

A familiar hand touched her shoulder and she needed no one to tell her to whom the hand belonged. She could feel the warmth of his strong hand seeping through her robes, causing her to shiver with delight. No matter how many times she managed to brush past him or have him pat her on the back in a friendly manner, it never ceased to amaze her as to how quickly her heart would change beat, her breath would accelerate and her insides would turn to jelly. Tilting her head slightly backwards, she stared right into his blue eyes and confirmed her earlier thoughts. Those robes did wonders for bringing out the blue in those twinkling eyes that were always so mesmerizing.

The remainder of the ceremony passed much in a blur as one by one Minerva and her classmates accepted their graduation scrolls. When it was her turn, she walked confidently towards Albus Dumbledore and as he handed her the scroll, his fingertips and hers touched briefly, sending jolts of excitement through her. She beamed with pride as he whispered a sincere Congratulations my dear so that only she could hear.

As was customary at Hogwarts, a festive dance followed the graduation service and for once in her life, Minerva was looking forward to it. She had daydreamed for weeks about this part of the day, assuming of course that her professor had returned by graduation day. Before things had looked bleak for his return she had practiced what to say in front of her mirror and even once or twice with Xiomara. And he hadn’t let her down. He had returned, just like her best friend assured her he would, and he had even seen to it that he was the one who presented her with her special awards. Now, all she had to do was find the courage to ask him to dance with her, possibly for the last time.

The ball was in full swing and Minerva scanned the crowd desperately for her professor. She had already turned down three offers from her classmates to take a spin on the floor, wanting to reserve her first and last dance for him. Not wanting to seem desperate or impatient, she quickly decided against asking the other teachers if they had seen him and resigned herself to playing the waiting game, something she was never very good at to begin with.

With each passing minute and another dance gone by, Minerva was about to give up hope. She had come to the conclusion that her professor had skipped the graduation party, no doubt to attend to matters of war and for that she couldn’t be angry. With her hopes dashed and a sullen look on her face, Minerva sank into a chair in the corner of the room, envious of all the young couples who seemed to be enjoying the dance. It seemed that she had missed her one opportunity to share a twirl around the floor with the man who dominated much of her thoughts.

“You’re not planning to spend all evening hidden away in the shadows are you Minerva? That would be such a pity and a waste of a lovely gown.” That silky voice radiated in her ears and down her spine until her very toes tingled. It was soft and so very alluring, like a moth to a flame. Before she had a chance to speak, his soft hand landed on her shoulder, turning her to face him and his brilliant smile. “I was hoping a young lady with pretty green eyes would honor me with a dance. After all, this may be the last time I see you for quite some time and I’d hate to miss the opportunity to dance with you, my dear.”

Minerva’s heart leapt into her throat as he took her hand and led her to the dance floor. He bowed lowly to her and in turn she gave a polite curtsey, just as she had been taught to do ages ago by her mother. Their eyes locked and Minerva was certain she didn’t blink even once for fear of missing something in those amazing blue eyes. His hand rested gently upon her waist while he clasped her other hand easily. The music started up again and she was more than thrilled when the band began a slow tune.

The lights overhead dimmed just a little when the music began, no doubt trying to set the mood for the young couples that would be parting in a few short hours. Emboldened by her new status as a former student of his, Minerva took a step closer to Albus and his hand slid further around her waist, resting in the center of her back.

“Do you remember the first dance we ever shared, Minerva?” he asked softly. Minerva had suddenly lost her voice and all she could do was give a subtle nod of reassurance. “It seems like ages ago and then again it seems like only yesterday.”

“I remember every dance we’ve ever shared, Professor. They are among my favorite memories,” she said before her mind could tell her not to reveal all her womanly secrets.

“I’m sure you’ll soon replace those memories with happier ones once you go out into the world and make a name and a home for yourself.” She thought she detected a hint of sadness in his voice for a brief moment but it was gone just as quickly as it had appeared.

“I was worried about you while you were away. I was afraid you’d been hurt and…”

“Afraid I’d miss your graduation too.” Again she nodded her head, slightly embarrassed to be admitting something so petty when he had more important things to be worrying about. “Ah, I wouldn’t have missed this day for the world, Minerva. Wild hippogriffs couldn’t have kept me from seeing you walk across that stage and taking top honors as well. I’m extremely proud of you.”

“Thank you. It meant a lot to me to have you give me those awards. You’ve taught me so much and helped me in so many ways,” she said her eyes beginning to fill with tears at the thought of leaving him.

“I’d do anything for you Minerva. You’re very special to me and if there’s ever anything I can do to help you in life, all you need do is ask. My doors will always be open to you and I do hope we meet again.”

It was as if he timed his words to fit perfectly with the ending of the song for no sooner had he finished his sentence, the song ended. Minerva fully expected him to do as he had done in the past and kiss the back of her hand as a way of thanking her for the dance but there was something else hidden in his eyes and she could see it. Gripping her arms loosely, he leaned forward and kissed each of her cheeks softly, brushing his lips ever so gently across her smooth skin as they flushed crimson beneath his lips.

Minerva was certain she stopped breathing. Her heart was pounding so hard she could hear it in her head and was certain he could hear it too. Her mind was reeling with thoughts and emotions too numerous to process or even count and before she knew it, she had thrown her arms around his neck and returned a kiss to each of his cheeks before hugging him tightly.

A cough somewhere behind Albus drew Minerva back to her senses. It was the Headmaster telling Albus he had an urgent owl from the Ministry and apparently it wasn’t good news. He took Minerva’s hands in his and kissed the back of each one softly, then rubbed his thumb across the spot. “Remember, I’ll always be here for you, my dear.” He squeezed her hands and let them drop from his before turning to see to his important work for the Ministry and the war effort, leaving Minerva stunned in the center of the dance floor.

She stood rooted to the spot for a moment, until his lapis blue robes with the silver designs were no longer visible. She might have stayed there, lost in her thoughts if it hadn’t been for Xiomara. “You owe me, Minerva McGonagall! You owe me big time and I expect payment in full.”

“Did you see that? He kissed my cheeks, Xia. And in front of everybody here,” she said dreamily. “And that dance…oh it was wonderful.”

“Yes and you have me to thank for it. And don’t think I’m going to let you forget it anytime soon.” Minerva snapped out of her trance to cast a questioning look at her friend and confidante. “The band was supposed to play a fast number and I had to practically beg and bribe them to play the slowest, softest tune they know just for you. If it wasn’t for me, you’d have been doing the Charleston with your dear professor and no doubt none of the rest of it would have happened either!” She smiled mischievously at her friend, still lost in the recent memory. “I don’t think many of us saw the little exchange between the two of you but I was watching. I saw it all, Mervie!”

Minerva raised a trembling hand to her cheek to touch the spot where his lips had brushed lightly. “Have I told you today how lucky I am to have you as my best friend, Xiomara Hooch?” Before she had a chance to respond, Hooch found herself being pulled into a tight hug as Minerva’s face lit up with excitement and happiness. “Thank you so much. That’s the best graduation gift you could have given me and I’ll never, ever forget it.”

A/N: Thanks for all the wonderful reviews. We’re glad that you’re enjoying this story and we hope you’ll stick with us to the end!

[Trulyamused]

Excellent. I'm loving this. Hope to read more soon.

T

[Herzele]

Another wonderful dance ( and of course update ) !! Loved it !

[Alesia]

Ladies,

You made my day! I loved the way you structured this. You have developed a Minerva who is smart enough to know she has a crush but still brave enough to hope for more. You have kept your story out of the dangerous 'affair with a student' pathway but still given a solid foundation for what comes next when they are both adults.

Very nice, thank you.

[tanja]

AAAHHHH such a CUTE update! of course we´ll read until the last letter !!! I guess ...
please update soon!!

[Jessabelle]

This post was soooo good. It made my day too! I quite like how you write the "teenage Minerva". It'll be interesting to see how you two write her as an adult, will she be pushing her feelings aside? Please post again soon!
- Jess

[tayryn]

yet another wonderful update, ladies!

Xia is an awesome friend!! tis something i would do for my best friend too!!

and we got kissage... even if it was tame! ;o)

looking forward to the next update... and hoping for some real kissage!! *G* (yes, i'm hopeless)

[QuillofMinerva]

That has to be my FAVOURITE chapter so far, I mean they are all fab but I was on the edge of my seat when Xiomara was telling Minerva that Albus had returned and then waiting to see if he was actually there and HE WAS! Yayeeeeeee

Oh I loved the dance between them, awww and when he kissed her on both cheeks

I LOVED IT

though am looking forward the next dance

love

Clayre xx

[maritelske]

This story is just beautiful - the idea behind it is so lovely that you instantly fall in love with the storyline, but you write so beautifully that it draws you in further. I love the way you write Minerva as a student - she's not at all ditzy and stupidly in love (well, she is in love) but she hasn't lost her wit or her charm. You write her perfectly Even as a small child she was gorgeous.

I greatly anticipate the next chapter - this one was just divine. And Xiomara is such a great friend! I love the whole idea behind their last dance before she graduates - it was perfect.

[EloquentPhoenix]

*Sits stunned at desk barely breathing*

Absolutely amazing, and exactly what I needed to read. I love the way you write the relationship between Minerva and Xiomara, she's exactly the friend Minerva needs. And the dance... it was perfect, not too much, not too little, she knows and he knows (well he should because if he doesn't he's blind). And when he kissed her hands, I'm surprised Min didn't just melt on the spot because I certainly did for her. I expecially like how Minerva is still Minerva and doesn't do things greatly out of character. I'll stick with this story, how could I not? You had me hooked from the very first dance. Oooh, Albus got called away I've just remembered. *Worries* Update soon please.

[blackstar]

Oh yes another update!!

I hope Albus will come back soon. Pleas!!

Hope they become a couple soon*gg*

I looking forward to the next chapter

blackstar

[zoeteproet]

Bloody headmaster! Why did he interupted their moment?!
Thank Merling, Xiomara Hooch asked for a slow and not some crazy song ;D
I love to read more, more more!
I'm hoping for some more kissing, marriage, pregnant, bla bla bla
Just kidding
Well, I'm going to leave you guys.
Love,
Sarah

[Hogwarts Duo]

Chapter 5

“We just received the signal sir. It is time to launch our attack.”

Minerva watched as the witches and wizards around her all held tightly on to the portkeys they had been handed. The head mediwitch standing beside her shook her head sadly. They expected to have a great many wounded after this battle was over and had worked the last few weeks gathering supplies and putting up wards to protect the hospital wing. This was the first major attack they had planned against Grindelwald since the slaughter this past summer.

When Minerva had volunteered to help with the war shortly after graduation, she presumed she would end up fighting the enemy. However, she had been quickly shifted into the position of assistant mediwitch. She knew that they were attempting to keep the younger generation as far away from the bloodshed as possible and it irked her to no end. Her juvenile fantasy of fighting beside Professor Dumbledore was crushed nearly before it had started. Now a couple of years wiser, she had realized that what she did, helping people to heal and recover was just as important.

“This is it everyone. Remember to stick with your partners once you enter the fray. The portkeys will take you just outside of Grindelwald’s camp. The main attack led by Albus Dumbledore should already be under way and the perimeter secure. Today is the day where the tide will be turned!”

Shouting rang out through the room and groups of fighters started to disappear. Minerva didn’t consider what she was doing, not on any conscious level any way. The words Albus Dumbledore and attack were ringing in her head as she launched herself at the nearest person with a portkey and grabbed hold of it just in time to feel the tug at her navel.

Flashes of light in the darkness just before sunrise greeted Minerva as she landed unsteadily on her feet on the edge of a thick forest. The portkey she had been holding was ripped from her hands and she was shoved to the ground. Crisp autumn leaves pressed into her cheek and a heavy loamy smell assaulted her nose. She heard unintelligible grunts above her and an inhuman scream before she was wrested from her position. She tripped over a body covered in fresh blood as she was pulled behind the closest tree.

“Bloody hell Minerva! What were you thinking? You could have been killed.”

The fierce gaze of Alastor Moody met her eyes and she shrunk visibly from the anger she saw there. His face had a splatter of blood across his chin. It was then that she realized he had saved her life. “I...,” she trailed off. What could she say that would make any sense? Alastor had befriended her during her tenure at the division but she knew his understanding wouldn’t extend to her feeble excuse.

“Take this and use it to go back.” Alastor shoved the portkey into her hands and turned to join the fight.

Minerva started to stop him but realized it would be useless. She looked out over the partially cleared field. The smell of blood and the shouts and cries of people in pain caused her to feel ill. The perimeter had not been secured as it should have been and it caused a flutter of fear to curl in her belly. She watched as a wizard in a heavy cloak used a slicing hex to cut off the arm of a young man, someone who had joined their division recently. She blanched as his scream reached her ears. Her mind was shouting at her to leave, to use the portkey before she was caught. But her body refused to move, even as she met the eyes of a wizard who pointed his wand at her heart.

All of the recruits attended regular training in dueling and battle scenarios. After all, it was never certain when they could expect an attack and if their division was breached, they would need every available wand in battle. And Minerva had always excelled in her training, even though she knew she would never have use of it. It was this diligent training that saved her life. She ducked just as a stream of red light shot towards her. She grunted in pain as her hip landed sharply on a large angular branch.

Her wand was quickly put into use and she soon found herself in her first duel of the war. Luckily the man she fought was inexperienced and she had soon overtaken him and had him bound and silenced before guiding his body to rest in a thick clump of bushes. The thorns tore at his clothes but she found that she didn’t care.

Adrenaline was pouring through her veins and the air, charged with magic, whipped around her as she moved toward the main battle. All thoughts of the portkey fled her mind as her instincts took over. She dodged through the duels on the perimeter of the installation. She was headed for the center of the drab settlement, knowing it was where she would find Grindelwald and therefore find Albus.

By the time she reached her destination, Minerva’s hair had mostly escaped its confining bun. Her robes were torn in several places and dirt and blood smudged her face and hands. She had several oval shaped bruises forming on her neck where a nasty witch whose wand Minerva had snapped had attempted to strangle her.

Limping slightly she eased toward the door. It was eerily quiet as she let herself inside. With her wand held at the ready, she moved down the dark corridors that twisted and turned in no apparent order. Her heart was pounding in her chest and her breaths came in small sharp gasps. A flash on her right as she entered a small alcove with several hallways leading off was her only warning before she found herself on the floor, the recipient of a binding spell.

Fear unlike anything she had ever known flooded her body. Unable to move even an inch did not stop her from starting to shake uncontrollably as a shadow moved into her line of sight. A face distorted by hanging flesh and oozing blood leered down at her as the tip of his wand poked into her belly.

“Merlin’s balls,” the gruff voice spat.

Minerva relaxed immediately but soon felt sick as she took in the extent of damage to Alastor Moody’s face. As he once again helped her up, this time a bit more gently than the last, she gasped in horror. His nose was half gone and one eye was missing, in its place a gaping hole. She immediately pulled her wand to cast a few healing spells.

Alastor grabbed her wrist firmly. “There is no time. I don’t know why you are here instead of back in the safety of the division headquarters, but since you made it this far we can use all the wands we can get so follow me.”

He led her down some more twisting corridors and soon the sounds of yells mingled with moans reached her ears. Alastor reached out and tapped the top of her head with his wand. She felt a coldness ooze down her skin as he lead her toward the entrance of a room that was glowing with all the spells which were being thrown.

“Try to stay out of the way and throw curses only when you have a clear shot,” he whispered. “It would be to our benefit for you to stay undetected. The spell should last unless something happens to me. If it should terminate for any reason, I would recommend using the portkey I gave you. This is the heart of the battle and Grindelwald would not hesitate to rip you open and laugh as you died.”

Minerva shivered at his description and followed his lead as he quickly entered the room immediately deflecting and casting spells, one after the other. Her gaze traveled across the room as her body slid along the wall. Her heart jumped into her throat and her world narrowed as she spotted Albus on the far side, dueling three men who stood shoulder to shoulder as if protecting something, or someone. He was holding his own but she could tell that he had some injuries, even with the distance between them.

As she moved closer, trying to get to him to help, she shot off binding spells at several wizards whose backs were to her. She ignored the voice at the back of her mind which regurgitated the etiquette of dueling. Now was not the time to let ones enemies know of her presence so a fair fight would ensue. The good guys were horribly outnumbered and her main concern was getting through this alive, and making sure Albus had the help he needed.

Everything seemed to happen at once as she rounded the final corner. She saw the witch as her body was flung backwards hitting the wall in front of her with a sickening crunch but could not stop her forward momentum in time. She felt her legs buckle underneath her and cried out as she toppled over the woman’s torso. The yell mixed with those around her but it seemed that her spell had been broken by the sudden jolt.

Several pairs of eyes turned to hers, including a pair that quickly widened in surprise before turning to fear and then anger. She watched as Albus spun away from her and aimed his wand into the air. A shot of blue light sped out of the tip and burst when it hit the ceiling. Shouts sounded and Minerva watched as dozens of bodies suddenly hit the ground just as a wave of light came rushing from Albus and quickly spread through the room, knocking anyone standing unconscious. Everyone except for one man.

Grindelwald, now exposed as his human barrier had been removed, stood with his wand pointed at Minerva. He was a giant of a man, tall and burly with shocking silver hair. His eyes were dark as night as they looked at her with obvious glee. Minerva had heard tales of the man. Not only of his atrocities but also of his life before madness and power had consumed his soul. He had been a great seer whose predictions often wrought great changes. All for good in his younger years but something within him had changed after a tragedy in his life that he had not seen and had been unable to stop.

“So the choice is yours Albus, love for you or freedom for all?”

Minerva glanced at Albus, confused by Grindelwald’s silky words. In his eyes she saw pain and remorse but it was quickly replaced by determination. As a spell spun out of Grindelwald’s wand, Minerva saw another rope of light rushing toward her. Albus launched himself at Grindelwald, knocking him down as she noticed the flash of gold in his hands. And then they were gone.

The soft blue light reached her first and blocked the curse that was aimed at her heart. She felt panic start to consume her at the thought that even now Albus was fighting for his life, alone. A hand grasped her shoulder and she jerked away before noticing that once again Alastor was by her side. She realized that some of the others in the room were still getting to their feet. It was then that she grasped the whole scene, which had seemed to last forever, had actually transpired in less than a minute.

“There is nothing you can do for him now. Come and help us bind the enemy who have fallen so that this day is worth all of our sacrifices.”

Albus woke two days later in St. Mungo’s with an excruciating headache and a stiffness in his limbs and every muscle in his body aching.

“’Bout time you woke. I’ve been sitting here watching over you since late yesterday and I was about to lose what little of my mind I have left!”

“Where am I?” Albus raised a shaking hand to his forehead, trying to piece together his memories of the recent events.

“You’re in the hospital. Took quite a nasty series of spells but you did it! You actually defeated the old geezer and I don’t think the wizarding world has stopped partying since we found you.” Alastor summoned over a nurse to tend to Albus’ headache as he continued. “Took me forever to find you though, what with you using the portkey and all. Next time, why not tell somebody you’re carrying one of those nasty things before you take off to do battle with another dark lord, leaving the rest of us behind to clean up the mess?”

“There wasn’t time, Alastor.” Flashes of images dashed through his head. Seeing Grindelwald about to kill Minerva. Hearing his icy voice as he asked Albus to make a choice for love or freedom. Seeing the look of panic in her emerald eyes seconds before he activated the portkey, not knowing if he would ever see those eyes again. “Minerva…where is she? Is she alright?” Albus tried to sit up in bed, eager to hear news of Minerva.

Alastor pushed him back among the bedding and shook his head. “She’s just fine, Albus. I took your threats to heart and tried my best to watch out for her, though I had no idea she’d be joining us on the battlefield,” he chuckled. “I thought you meant for me to look after her in case something happened to you during the battle.” It was obvious from the look in Albus’ eyes that he had not expected to find her there either. “I cast a spell on her that would make her somewhat invisible but it seems I didn’t cast it strong enough. Once I got hit, well it broke the connection and she was discovered. That’s when you up and vanished on us.” Alastor stood up and began limping across the room. “I can tell you right now, if she had any way of getting to you, she would have surely tried. I’ve never seen a more determined woman…a credit to her gender, that lass is.”

Albus noticed that his friend was limping, no doubt having suffered minor injuries in battle himself. “Thank you for protecting her. She’s very special and yet brave to a fault. She is indeed a credit to her gender and to her Gryffindor roots.” Albus paused, once again hearing the phrase ‘love for you or freedom for all’ as it resonated in his head, causing his mind to swirl. Desperately wanting to save those thoughts until he was alone, he asked Alastor about the limp and his injuries.

“Seems I got a bit careless or else they were just bloody lucky. The mediwitches fitted me with this magical eye but my leg wasn’t so lucky. I got hit with a nasty spell, same one that broke the enchantment with Minerva. Bloody git didn’t even know what he was saying so it came out as some garbled words, though they served their purpose alright. Knocked me on my arse, uncovered Minerva and weakened my leg muscles to the point that I now have a limp. Mediwictches say I may have to have it amputated and be fitted with a fake leg, but for now it’s holding its’ own.” Alastor went quiet for a moment then seemed to snap back to his old gruff self. “Now, you need to get well and in a hurry too. The Ministry is planning a bit of a big to do in your honor and if you ask me, they’re pulling out all the stops. Biggest thing to happen since the coronation of the new King of England!”

Minerva had tried her best to get to the hospital to see her mentor, her hero, the object of all her affection. But each time she was told that unless she was immediate family or had the proper credentials from the Ministry, no one could enter. Alastor Moody was the only exception to the rule and even he couldn’t get her access to Albus. So, she had to wait and hope that she would get a chance to speak to him at the festivities the following week.

Just as Alastor had predicted, the Ministry had spared no expense in throwing the celebration party in Albus’ honor. Everyone who had participated in the battle was invited along with dignitaries from several neighboring communities and even a few from abroad. The food and drink were plenteous and the ostentatious decorations were certainly a direct contrast to the man they were meant to honor. Banners, glittering tables, ice sculptures, crystal and fine china, even the confetti falling from the ceiling and disappearing just inches from ones head screamed flamboyant.

Running her hands through her long tresses one last time, Minerva stepped to the entranceway into the ballroom. The loud roar of hundreds of voices assaulted her ears and in some ways reminded her of the battle scene. A quick glance around the room caused her spirits to dampen. There was no way she would be able to find Albus in this crowd and if she did, no doubt he would be too preoccupied with more important people to spare her more than a brief moment.

Minerva stepped confidently into the room as several male eyes turned to survey her striking figure. Her deep crimson robes clung perfectly to her hourglass figure, something which made her self conscious but excited all the same. The off the shoulder neckline made her apprehensive, having not been one for such revealing attire. However, her invitation had said formal attire and the sales witch at Madame Malkin’s had gone breathless when Minerva emerged from the dressing room.

So many witches and wizards stopped Minerva throughout the night to thank her for healing them or for holding their hand until they could be seen by an experienced mediwitch. Until tonight, Minerva had never truly contemplated just how important her job was to the overall fight against Grindelwald. Battles were not only won on the battlefield but in the hearts and minds of those fighting for the greater good and it humbled her to know that her skills were to be credited with saving so many young lives.

Many of the young men invited Minerva to dance and she accepted one or two, none of them as skilled on the dance floor as Albus Dumbledore. And while she had enjoyed the attention she was receiving from so many different wizards, her heart longed for just a glimpse of her Albus. And then the music stopped. Everyone stilled and all chatter ceased as the Minister of Magic appeared on the platform along with the man of the hour. Minerva’s heart caught in her throat at the sight of him, whole, healthy and with a smile on his face.

“Tonight, we are all gathered here to pay tribute to the man credited with the defeat of the evil Grindelwald. His valiant efforts and sacrifices have assured us many more years of peace and prosperity and we commend him for giving so much of himself to the fight. Thank you, Albus, on behalf of all assembled here and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that they did not die in vain. A moment of silence will be observed to remember the fallen.”

Minerva started to bow her head for the moment of silence but she couldn’t tear her eyes away from Albus. If she wasn’t able to speak to him, at least she could memorize the way he looked, even at this great a distance. Just then, Albus looked up, as if scanning the room for someone in particular and when his gaze landed on her, he stopped and smiled. Their eyes locked and suddenly the room was empty except for the two of them. At least that’s how it felt to Minerva. She wanted to run straight to him, despite the imposed moment of silence but that was not acceptable, no matter how much her heart pleaded with her.

“Thank you. Now, the food and drink will continue to flow liberally so tuck in and the party will continue as long as there are people who wish to remain. Enjoy the remainder of your evening.” The Minister of Magic motioned for the band to begin playing as couples regrouped and started moving in time with the music.

A frustrated growl nearly escaped Minerva’s lips as she tried her best to weave a pattern through the maze of bodies standing between her and the platform. A determined gleam in her eyes and her long strides had her standing at the foot of the dais in no time, only to find that it was empty. Albus had gone and her heart sank. Taking comfort in the fact that she had at least seen him, she started to turn around and begin her search once more. But just as she spun around, she slammed into someone solid, warm, and incredibly welcoming.

“I was hoping a young lady with pretty green eyes would honor me with a dance.” He spoke so softly she almost missed his words, though in her heart she knew exactly what he had said. “I’ve looked for you all evening and until a few moments ago, I had given up hope.” He flashed her a radiant smile, one that wiped away all of her frustrations, worries, and fears. One that somehow made everything that had happened recently feel like a distant memory. “And might I say that you have excellent taste in formal wear, my dear. I’m sure you’re the envy of every witch present and no doubt the object of many wizards intentions.”

Minerva’s eyes lit up and her heart began to skip beats as he commented on her appearance. One compliment like that from him made the purchase worth every single galleon and so many more. For the first time in her life, she felt as if he saw her as a young woman and not the young lass he met years and years ago. Taking his hand, she led him out onto the dance floor, trembling inside from sheer anticipation at feeling his arms around her, the closeness of his body to hers, and the familiarity that comes from knowing and loving someone for so long.

“Thank you for sparing me a few minutes, Professor. I tried to visit you in the hospital but they wouldn’t let me anywhere near your rooms.”

“Please, call me Albus. You’re no longer my student and I think we’ve known each other long enough to look beyond the formalities, my dear.” He winked at her and then twirled her around, bringing her back into his arms and flush against his body.

A dainty laugh slipped out of Minerva’s throat, her happiness at being in his arms and having him no longer thinking of her as a child bubbling from her very core. She noted that several people had stopped to watch as the great Albus Dumbledore danced with the lady in red. No doubt the witches were envious of her position and there would be rumors flying tomorrow but for this one dance, he belonged to her and she to him.

The music ended and immediately they were surrounded by onlookers all congratulating them on their graceful moves and how easily they seemed to dance together. “We’ve had a lot of practice,” Albus answered for them, sending Minerva a sly wink and squeezing her hand. “Now if you will excuse us, I do believe I promised Minerva a slow dance.”

Her ears had failed her. Had he just said he wanted to dance with her again? And a slow dance at that? Minerva heard the rumblings of several jealous witches, no doubt many of whom had their eyes set on Albus Dumbledore. Being led to the center of the dance floor, Albus leaned in and whispered into her ear.

“Our habit is to only share one dance per ball but tonight is different. You were of great help to me in that horrible battle, maybe more than even you realize. And they told me how adamant you were about seeing me.” He chuckled. “They even told me how you had tried to sneak in to see me but to no avail. “Thank you…for everything.” He leaned close and brushed his lips innocently against her cheek, just as dozens of flash bulbs went off around them. No doubt they would be on the front page of the Daily Prophet but none of that mattered for Minerva was falling deeper and deeper in love with each dance.

TBC…

A/N: Thank you so much for your overwhelming response to this story. We have a few more chapters to go so be on the lookout for future updates.

[QuillofMinerva]

Woohoohoo, A slow dance!

FAB chapter once again Ladies. I love watching their relationship develop through the series of dances.

[tanja]

omg, this was as wonderful as always...i wonder when the they will finally admit their love...

[Jessabelle]

Wonderdful post. Minerva sounded as though she looked stunnning! I thought that it was a very cute touch to have both of them searching for eachother in the crowd. Please post again soon.
- Jess

[TheGryffindorSeeker]

awwwwww...loved it esp end cant wait for more