For the Ultimate Patronus Quest (wading birds: Write about a first something) and the Character Boost Challenge (John Dawlish)
John reluctantly checks his watch. Nearly ten. He's surprised that Amelia has entertained him this long. Before she can throw him out for the night, he clears his throat and climbs to his feet, downing the last swallow of beer. "I suppose we ought to call it a night," he says with a curt nod. "I'd better get going."
He can see something in her eyes, some part of her warring with another part. John kisses her gently. "I'll see you at work in the morning," he says.
As he pulls away, she catches the sleeve of his shirt. "Wait."
He doesn't understand how that single syllable can cause his heart to flutter so mcuch. Really, it's ridiculous. But he does wait, a hopeful smile on his lips. "What is it, Milly?" he asks. "Am I forgetting something."
She scowls at the nickname, as she always does. John tries not to laugh.
"Perhaps you don't have to leave," she says quietly, climbing to her feet. "I enjoy your company, and I wouldn't mind having you here overnight."
Wouldn't mind. John can't help but to grin at the way she chooses her words so carefully, ever mindful of the weight that they carry. "Not minding isn't the same thing as wanting," he tells her. "There's no need to be so professional, Amelia. We're in your home, not your office."
Amelia closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. When she opens them again, her eyes are clearer, as though the battle in her mind is finally won. "I want you to stay the night, John," she says.
His heart races. It's a big step to take. Her request is an indication that he means something more, that he's more than just a bloke she dates from time to time. "Are you sure? You've never asked before."
"There's a first time for everything," she says, climbing to her feet and taking his hand. "You can wake early and Floo back to your place to change for work."
"Maybe I can start leaving a few sets of robes here in the future," he says boldly.
Amelia smirks and kisses his cheek. "Let's make sure I can share a bed with you without wanting to smother you in your sleep first," she laughs. "Then we'll talk about the future."
He grins, allowing her to lead him to her bedroom. "But you admit that there is a future with me," he teases.
"There it is. My first urge to smother you," she retorts.
...
John opens his eyes, smiling to himself as he feels Amelia shift beside him. It's the first time he's woken up by her side, and he thinks that he wouldn't mind doing it for the rest of his days.
He checks his watch, biting back a groan. He'll need to get ready for work soon.
Grudgingly, he starts to climb out of bed, but Amelia holds him back. Her arms wrap around him, and nuzzles her head against his shoulder. "Five more minutes," she mumbles sleepily.
And he's more than happy to give her that.