December 1982
Although Minerva was nearly five months along, she was still not comfortable with the idea of having a child. She and Elphinstone visited her family on Christmas and her mother was ecstatic to hear that her only daughter was pregnant. Her brothers were quite surprised, but very happy all the same for their sister. Their father had died earlier in the year and a happy announcement was just what the McGonagall's needed to lift their spirits up during the holiday the reverend had loved so much. After Christmas dinner, Isobel found her daughter in her childhood bedroom laying on the bed with a vacant expression on her face.
"Minni? What ever is the matter?" Isobel sat on the edge of the bed and faced her daughter.
Minerva sighed. "I don't think I will... make a good mother." She began to cry quietly.
Isobel took her hand. "My darling, everyone worries about that. It's quite common. As is your emotional state." She paused and put her hand on Minerva's stomach. "This baby will be so lucky to have you. You will be a wonderful mum, I'm sure of it. I felt the same way before you were born. But then you came and despite all of my doubts... and secrets, I loved you so very much."
She looked at where her hand was on Minerva's stomach. "You're beginning to show."
"Yes, I suppose. More so when I wear muggle dresses."
They were silent for a moment or two.
"I should go back down. Elphie will wonder where I am."
Minerva sat in her sitting room in Hogsmead looking through a muggle book on pregnancy and birth. She was certain she wanted Poppy to deliver her baby. Preferably here in her cottege. She had begun doing research on the birth process as she was always one to be prepared.
1982 was nearly over and she could hardly believe she would have a baby in the coming year. She went to the bathroom to take a warm bath before dinner. Just as she was about to take off her slip, she felt an odd sensation, a fluttering. Placing a hand on the side of her belly, she felt a slight movement.
"Elphie! Quick, come here!"
Her husband came flying into the bathroom in a tizz. "Are you alright!"
"Yes, yes, I just think I felt it move." She smiled for what seemed like the first time in a while. Suddenly she felt the happiness that most expectant mothers felt.
"We're going to have a baby," she suddenly said.
Elphinstone laughed. "Yes I know. You're happy about it?"
Minerva nodded. "I'm so very happy!"
