Chapter Seven: Meeting Avalon
Minerva looked at the woman opposite her and took an instant dislike to her. She was probably the same height as Minerva but that was where the similarities ended, Avalon was blonde with dark blue eyes. Minerva noticed that Albus had stiffened and couldn't seem to find his voice, Minerva's heart went out to him. There was an awkward silence and Avalon and Albus were just staring at each other.
"How are you keeping up, Alby?" she finally asked.
"Fine!" was his starch reply.
Minerva had cringed when she had heard Avalon use the pet name for her friend. What in the name of Merlin had processed him to allow her to call him that?
"I trust you are well," said Albus, breaking another uncomfortable silence.
"Very well," she answered, "very busy though with arranging the wedding."
Minerva was completely taken aback by the frankness of Avalon. It had only been two weeks since she had cruelly dropped him and she was already planning her next wedding to the man who had helped destroy Albus Dumbledore's happiness.
"Oh gosh," said Allison realizing what she had just said. "I didn't mean... I just didn't think."
"That much is obvious!" said Minerva.
Albus reached across and rested a hand on Minerva's arm to stop her from going any further.
"Who is this?" questioned Avalon, looking Minerva up and down.
Albus stepped closer next to Minerva and looked at Avalon. "This is Minerva McGonagall," he explained. "She is a close friend of mine."
"Well kindly tell her not to poke her nose into other people's business," snapped Avalon. "Run along little girl, us adults need to speak."
Minerva was about to snap a reply when she felt Albus reach for her hand and try to lead her away. "Come on Minerva," he said softly.
Minerva managed to get out of his grip and she swept across to Avalon. "He is far too good for you," she told Avalon. "What he ever saw in you is beyond me but..."
Before Minerva was able to continue, Albus forcefully dragged her away.
"Minerva there is no need for that!" said Albus once Avalon was out of sight.
"But..." she replied.
"But nothing Minerva," interrupted Albus, "however thank you!"
Minerva smiled softly at him and then she realized that he was holding her hand, and that he was gently massaging it with his thumb. Albus looked down at what had caught her eye, he quickly let go of her hand and placed it inside his pocket.
"I can see Mum and Dad waiting for us," said Minerva softly.
Albus was glad that Minerva had broken the silence and slowly they made their way to meet Maxim, Kate and Athena who was clutching bags with pride.
