Monday, June 2003

It was Monday morning as Hermione sat at her desk reading a report about gnomes eating the radishes at a group of farms in Southern England. As Hermione continued to read, one of the office's assistants walked in with a quick 'hello' leaving behind Hermione's post and a cup of coffee. Hermione reached for her coffee, enjoying the hot liquid as it trailed down her throat. Going through her letters she noticed an unfamiliar script on one of the envelopes. Her curiosity got the best of her since her post was usually filled with internal office memos only. As she opened the letter and read, a smile spread across her face.

Hello Hermione,

I was going to owl you on Sunday, but I thought that would be a little desperate. So, to look slightly less desperate; I choose to wait another day. Why wait too long? I really enjoyed speaking with you on Saturday and would like to continue our conversation. I was hoping you would be available for a drink on Friday? Tuesday through Thursday are my training days. If Friday does not work, I will be happy to meet on Saturday or Sunday.

P.S. How is that very large orange cat of yours?

Marcus

Hermione felt a flush come over her body as she thought about seeing Marcus again. She honestly didn't expect him to reach out so quickly. But she was delighted he did and she felt giddy. Will she look desperate if she answered too soon? Will they have sex? "Whoa, wait Hermione! Don't overthink this. It's only drinks. But...you are ready for new things, right? Does that include shagging? It's been way too long.

After he walked her to the Apparition point, they only spoke for a while longer. Marcus was a complete gentleman and gave her a tight hug before she left. She had to admit, she was a bit disappointed he didn't make a move, but from what she can gather from watching him during their conversation, she would probably have to be the one to initiate it. When she went to sleep that night, all she could think about were his shoulders, his scent, and those dark eyes. She was happy that she remembered to silence her bedroom, she was positive the orgasm she gave herself would have woken up her housemate. A smile graced her face when she recalled how relaxed she felt when she woke up on Sunday morning. Hermione pulled open her desk drawer to retrieve a piece of parchment. "Indeed, why wait, Marcus?" She said as she started to write her reply.

Marcus,

I'm so glad you reached out. I would love to meet for drinks and continue our conversation. I'll be free after work and will meet you at The Leaky at 5:30 on Friday. I looked forward to seeing and talking to you again.

P.S. Crookshanks is doing very well, thank you for asking.

Hermione

Marcus had just walked through the fireplace of his sitting room after meeting with his team for some impromptu drills. He was looking forward to a hot shower and much needed quiet time. As he walked into the kitchen, he noticed a letter on the floor by the open window. He rarely received post, so he knew who sent the letter. A part of him was excited and the other half was nervous. He fancied her and witches never reciprocated those feelings towards him. He understood they only met a couple of nights ago, but he knew she was special. He remembered the scent of gardenias and something sweet when he hugged her. He was so tempted to kiss her that night, but stopped himself. He didn't want to scare her away by throwing himself at her. He took a deep breath then opened the letter. He smiled when he read her response. She wanted to see him again. He was glad he decided to approach her at that party, something he never does. Marcus placed the letter on the counter and walked upstairs to his restroom. Yes, a shower was what he needed and perhaps...a bit of a release as well.

Tuesday

Hermione stood up stretching her arms over her head. She had been working on a report about the radish stealing gnomes and finally decided she needed a break. As she stretched her back she heard a loud knock on her door causing her to look at the closed door in confusion. "Who the hell is that?" she thought as she sat back down and shouted for the person to enter her office. To her surprise, Marcus Flint appeared in the doorway with a bouquet of daisies and a brown bag.

"Hello, Marcus. This is a surprise," said Hermione. She knew her voice was steady, but inside her guts were bubbling.

"I figured Friday is still a long ways away and I thought you might like a spot of lunch."

"I would love to Marcus, but I have a meeting with a Deputy Head of the DMLE in about thirty minutes."

"I thought you might be busy, so I came prepared," he said as he lifted the brown bag. "Will turkey and swiss on wheat work for you?" Hermione laughed.

"That sounds perfect." Marcus and Hermione sat on her rug in the middle of her office as they ate their sandwiches. Conversation was pleasant and Hermione couldn't help but to like Marcus even more for his surprise indoor picnic.

"Shouldn't you be at practice today, it's Tuesday?"

"I had a very early morning practice today. I have a meeting here at the Ministry later."

"Is everything alright, Marcus?"

"Yes, it's fine. I'm actually here to..." he paused for a moment "To talk to someone in the Department of Magical Games and Sports." Hermione thought there was more to this, but it wasn't her place to push. When he stood up to say goodbye she gave him a hug and once again inhaled his masculine scent. It was truly invigorating. A blend of bergamot, spice and leather. When she pulled away, to her surprise, he lowered his head, placing a chaste kiss on her lips.

"See you Friday," he said with hands still on her lower back.

"Yes, see you then," she replied as a soft smile appeared on her lips.

Friday

Hermione at her desk, finishing a proposal explaining why the DMLE needs a law writer in their department. When she finally looked at the clock, next to her office door, she gasped out loud. "Oh no!" she cried. The clock read 5:20. She quickly grabbed her bag and ran out the door not even looking where she pointed her wand behind her to lock the door. She made it to the Ministry's Floos in record time and threw the Floo powder as she called out her destination.

"Right on time." Hermione turned her head to see Marcus standing next to the fireplace.

"Hello Marcus," said Hermione as she smiled at the wizard in front of her.

"I thought you might like to go into Muggle London for a drink," he said. "It's Friday and packed here. I also can't guarantee that the press won't come around. They might see us." As she looked at the dark haired wizard, she made a decision. She stepped closer to him and stood on her tiptoes as she placed a kiss, a soft kiss on his lips.

"I'm fine, right here." She felt an odd sense of accomplishment watching the large wizard blush. "Are you okay with being seen with me?" she asked. Marcus looked down at the witch and placed one of her curls behind her ear.

"I'm honored to be seen with you, Hermione," he replied with a soft smile. It was her turn to blush. She could feel the heat in her cheeks. "Come on, there's a table in the corner." He presented her his arm and she happily took it.

"What would you like to drink?" he asked.

"A Butterbeer would be great."

"Anything to eat?" Usually, she would politely decline, but the smell of fried food was calling out to her.

"Fish and chips," she replied with a smile.

"Fish and chips and a Butterbeer, it is. Be right back." As he walked away Hermione's eyes drifted to his back, then lower. She admired how fit he looked in his dark Muggle jeans and fitted navy blue oxford. She had to admit his arse was quite impressive in those jeans. His dark brown leather belt fit perfectly around his waist which helped accent his broad shoulders.

"Stop Hermione. Please refrain from turning yourself into an ogling teenager!" she thought as she watched him place the order. "However, I wouldn't mind seeing him naked." Hermione closed her eyes briefly and shook her head. "Merlin! Stop witch!"

Marcus had to keep calm while his insides were in chaos. She kissed him. Hermione Granger, Gryffindor Princess, war hero, kissed him. Who knew such an innocent gesture could be so...stimulating? He was sure the tight black skirt and pumps only added to chaos. He placed their order and walked back to the table with their drinks. He set the mug of foamy Butterbeer in front of Hermione and the Firewhisky in front of his seat.

"Thank you, Marcus," she said as she took a sip of her Butterbeer. The white foam stuck to her upper lip. He watched as her tongue licked off the the sweet bubbles. His breath slightly caught at the action, but he managed to still speak.

"You're welcome," he coughed. "The food should be coming out shortly."

"Great, it's been a long day at work and I wasn't able to eat a real lunch."

"I'm glad I'll be able to satisfy your hunger," he replied. Hermione's eyebrows shot up into her hairline as she stared at him. Less than a second later, Marcus realized what he said, but before any embarrassment could occur their food appeared on the table.

"Um. Yes… if I didn't have Harry or you to surprise me with lunch, I'll probably always miss it. I made a habit of packing snacks in my bag," she laughed. "Today was a bag of crisps and a few chocolate truffles. So, I figured I might as well add more sugar and carbs to my diet today," she replied as she took a bite of a crispy chip. Marcus laughed and placed a napkin over his lap before he dug a fork into his Shepherd's Pie.

"Alright, let's try something," said Hermione as she wiped her hands on her napkin and pushed her empty plate away from her. "A little game, I suppose." Marcus wiped his mouth and placed his napkin on the table.

"Okay, will this game require another drink?" He watched as Hermione looked at her empty mug.

"Yes, I believe another round would be a good idea. However, I will buy this time." Marcus was about to protest, but Hermione stood up and raised her hand. She removed her wand from her sleeve and flicked her wrist. Marcus could feel the air around them change due to the magic she produced. "I just placed a Muffliato around our table. This would prevent anyone from eavesdropping on our conversation." Marcus gave her Slytherin worthy smirk.

"Are you planning on me to tell you my deepest darkest secrets, Miss Granger?"

"I guess you'll have to wait and see, Mr. Flint." Hermione turned and walked to the bar to order more drinks. When she returned she placed another glass of Firewhiskey in front of Marcus and her own drink in front of her. "Shall I start?" she asked.

"I don't even know what we are doing, Hermione. So, by all means, please start."

"It's simple really. I figured we can ask each other questions."

"What kind of questions?"

"Any kind."

Marcus didn't even try to suppress the smirk that spread across his lips.

Thanks Pamela RR!