Disclaimer: We would like this to stay a splinch-free zone so please remember that the world, life and characters of Harry Potter belong solely to JKR. We are merely borrowing them to satisfy the muse that guides us.

Beware-If flames are sent our floo powder is ready.

~~Christmas Magic~~

"Minerva, I know this may sound presumptuous, but would you feel better if you stayed here for the remainder of the night." Gracing him with a slight smile and a simple nod of her head, Albus shifted to the cold side of his bed and allowed Minerva to occupy the spot he had just vacated. Snuggling into the warm sheets, she released a sigh as his arms folded around her. Placing a chaste kiss upon her cheek, the two exchanged "I love you's" before falling back into slumber, without the awful dreams.

Dazzling sunlight and a crisp breeze danced across the faces of the auburn haired man and the beautiful woman beside him. Christmas morning seemed to be working its' brand of magic as Minerva placed a tantalizing kiss on Albus' neck. Smiling at the realization that his one true love was in his arms, he returned the gesture with a well-placed kiss of his own.

Moments later, as Minerva lay snuggled warmly in Albus' loving embrace she took a deep breath and sighed. Given the recent events, Albus was unsure as to whether or not that was a sigh of contentment or distress so in a quiet tone, barely above a whisper, he asked. Pulling him closer to her she took her soft hand and stroked his face. "Well my love, I must admit that I had not intended for our first night together to turn out as it did. I had such high hopes for a glorious first evening with you." Letting her slender finger trace a path down his nose, she tapped the end of it with her finger before speaking again. "Oh well, I suppose there's always next time."

Squirming a bit in his arms to look into his eyes, Minerva finished her declaration with a "Happy Christmas" coupled with "I love you."

Speaking similar words in return, Albus wasted no time in conjuring a sprig of mistletoe above her head and proceeded to lavish her with warm, soft kisses to start their first Christmas Day together, as a true couple. Several well-spent moments seemed to fly past before either of them realized that her parents would be making their way to her rooms shortly. As she attempted to rise from his arms and make her way to her chambers, Minerva was pulled back into the toasty sheets.

Propped up on his side, Albus smiled playfully and asked her to linger just a bit longer. Kissing her softly, he asked that she close her eyes for a moment while he gave her a surprise. Knowing that she would think something entirely different from his intended purpose, he chuckled at her facial expression while she willingly abided by his request.

It took only seconds for Albus to magically create the surprise. It was a delicate white rose and only the very tips were touched with a hint of red. It was charmed so that it started out as a  rose bud and then slowly it opened to reveal a flower in full bloom, each time releasing an intoxicating scent and looking more lovely than before.

With her eyes still closed, Minerva's cat like instincts took over and she could smell the sweet aroma and wondered what on earth Albus was doing. Resisting the temptation to peek, she did not have to wait long for her answer.

Albus plucked the flower from the air, inhaled the sweet smell, and touched the rose to his lips. Reminding her to keep her eyes closed, Albus began to trace her facial features with the flower. The touch was so light, it tickled and yet she did not laugh. Instead, she began to lightly purr as he used the flower to caress her cheeks, then her chin, both of her ears, and finally her perfect lips. As he moved the gift away from her face, he bent down and touched his own lips to hers with such a passion both found it hard to resist the urge to forget the world. However, they knew that it was not the time for them to take the next step in their relationship.

A few moments filled with tender caresses and feather light kisses passed and in the distance, they heard a muggle clock chime the hour. Promising to see him soon at breakfast, Minerva reluctantly returned to her own chamber still marveling at the beautiful rose in her hand. As she exited the fireplace, she placed the flower in a small vase and hurriedly changed before her parents' arrival.

Albus stayed in bed for a few minutes after Minerva had departed. He recalled the feelings that had tingled through his system when she had pressed her soft and warm body against his while he had kissed her tenderly. His mind tried unsuccessfully to wrap around his good fortune in finding such an amazing woman. He had loved in the past but never as deeply and he was looking forward to spending the rest of his life discovering more about this wise, funny, intelligent, beautiful and caring woman.

Fawkes, who was feeling rather neglected, made a chirping noise and Albus chuckled cheerfully. "Merry Christmas Fawkes! Did you think I had forgotten you?"

Fawkes trilled a low note and hopped from foot to foot. Albus' grin split into a full smile and he jumped out of bed. "Sometimes I think you are a child trapped in the body of a phoenix."

The beautiful creature stopped his antics and gave Albus a none-too-happy look. He lifted his head in the air and turned his back to his companion.

Albus shook his head. "Now, now, I didn't mean it as an insult. You are the most talented and beautiful phoenix I know. And if you won't forgive me for that, perhaps this will change your mind."

An invisibility cloak was pulled off a beautiful gold stand in a corner of the room. It had intricate carvings and Fawkes' name was engraved on a plate at the front. Fawkes wasted no time in flying over and cooing lovingly at Albus as he rubbed his head against the cheek of the older man.

"Your welcome. It is nothing less than you deserve. Now, I need to hurry and get ready for breakfast. I wouldn't want to keep Minerva or her parents waiting. With a soft stroke across the phoenix's back, he hastened to complete his morning rituals.

Albus was just sitting down for breakfast when Minerva arrived with her parents. They took seats next to his and the conversation at the table turned to the yearly decorations.

Athena turned to Headmaster Dippet after taking a sip of the delicious hot chocolate in front of her. "It is quite beautiful this year. I especially like the icicles that are hanging from the head table."

Armando sighed and waved his hand in Albus' direction. "The icicles were Albus' idea. He tends to come up with such fanciful decorations and they are always a hit."

Albus seemed to sit a little straighter in his chair. He had always been very proud of his decorating ideas. They were mostly unconventional and that was part of what made them special in his mind. Around that time, breakfast filled the platters in front of them and everyone fell to eating.

Before long, though, Athena broke the silence with a simple plea. "Minerva, I don't see why you and Albus won't come with us this afternoon to Edinburgh? I'm sure everyone would love to see you and I have no doubts they would enjoy meeting the famous Albus Dumbledore! You don't even have to stay all day. You can floo back whenever you are ready. You could stay for an hour or two. What do you say?"

Minerva lightly nudged Albus' foot under the table as if requesting his assistance in this matter. They had already discussed the idea of accompanying her parents and it had been Minerva who had expressed an interest in staying at Hogwarts. So, Albus struggled to come up with an excuse quickly.

"Ahh, Athena. I thank you for the wonderful invitation to join your family for the holiday, but alas, I must remain here at the school. You see, I have a brother and I have not heard from him today. He is supposed to floo in this afternoon. I really should stay here. Besides, I'm sure there will be other opportunities for me to meet Minerva's entire family." He gave Athena a slight smile and Minerva thought she saw him wink. But she wasted no time in explaining to her parents that she wanted to be present to greet Aberforth Dumbledore and her mother dropped the subject entirely.

Minerva was not quite sure what had just transpired between Albus and her mother. Usually the soft-spoken woman did not give in so easily, not even to Harold. Suddenly, Minerva felt as if she was missing something important but determined it would be best not to ask questions. In a few short sentences, Albus had pardoned both of them from visiting the McGonagall clan and given her hope for spending a quiet Christmas alone with him since she knew Aberforth would not be making an appearance. As a sign of 'thank you', Minerva once again let her foot touch Albus' leg, but this time it was reminiscent of the night they had played a particularly interesting game of chess. By the gleam in her eyes and the sparkle seen in his blue ones, each drifted back in thoughts to that night and the feelings that were awakened.

Harold must have noticed something odd about their far-away looks and he cleared his throat in a vain attempt to break the spell. It took several tries before he had regained the attention of the table and had steered the conversation on to other topics. The rest of the morning was spent in idle chatter, while they leisurely finished their meal.

The Hall had nearly emptied and only a few late morning stragglers were left. Standing by the gigantic Christmas tree, Minerva hugged her parents fiercely. "Have a great time at the family gathering and give everyone my best."

Minerva's parents then turned to Albus and Athena gave him a hug, which surprised and pleased him. He shook Harold's hand promising to take care of his daughter. Walking to the front doors, each couple was hand in hand. "I wish you could come with us but I understand why you want to stay." Athena wiped a tear from her eye as Harold placed his arm around his wife's waist and led her out the door.

Minerva laid her head on Albus' shoulder while they watched her parents walk to the gate and apparate away. Turning toward the large staircase, Albus invited Minerva to his rooms and soon they were cuddled together on his couch continuing the story they had been reading together. Minerva's soft voice seemed to caress the words and Albus took immense pleasure in simply watching her. After she had finished the chapter, they discussed the details presented until it was time for lunch. A beautiful table was set with candles and white roses and they ate happily discussing friends, family and the future.

Again retiring to a place near the fire, Albus presented an idea, which Minerva was hesitant to undertake. "Minerva, you haven't lived life until you have made s'mores."

Raising a delicate eyebrow, Minerva looked with skepticism at the platter of graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallows, which Albus had asked be delivered earlier. "For you Albus I will make these s'more things but I want you to know that I wouldn't do this for just anyone."

What followed was something Albus would never forget. When he conjured sticks to put the marshmallows on, Minerva was outraged. She refused to put her food on a stick, so in the end he cast a protective charm on their wands and they used them as the roasting tools. Minerva's first two Marshmallows fell into the fire and her third burned to a crisp. When she finally did everything to her satisfaction-since it had become a challenge for her-she sighed as the first bite melted in her mouth.

After a few cleaning charms had been cast on each other to clear off the melted chocolate and sticky marshmallow, Albus suggested they go outside and take a walk around the grounds. Minerva readily agreed and quickly went to her rooms to get her coat and gloves.

A short time later, Albus and Minerva had ventured into the cold, outside air that blanketed Hogwarts like the fluffy, white snow. They walked in silence with their arms joined, each lost in their own thoughts. Minerva was just about to speak when a snowball hit her in the arm. She looked sharply in the direction it had flown from and saw a group of students all looking at her in horror.

"Sorry Professor McGonagall. I swear it was an accident." The student looked as if he was about to run for cover and she couldn't help but smile.

"That is quite all right Richard. Please continue but be careful where you are aiming next time." Minerva glared at the chuckling Albus as they continued on their way. Once they were out of sight, she turned her head slightly toward him. "I am so happy that you found that funny. Never mind that now my arm is chilled."

Albus came to a stop and looked at his beloved. "I am so sorry my dear but the look on your face once you had been pelted was classic. I am grateful that you let the student off so easily."

Minerva quickly noticed that the twinkle had not left his eyes and her own narrowed. "Perhaps I should apologize in advance but for some reason I don't think I am going to feel sorry." Minerva backed away and she grinned as confusion took over his features. His eyes widened in shock as a snowball came flying out of nowhere and smacked him in the chest. Minerva started to chuckle but her laughter faded when she took in the sight before her.

Several snowballs were floating in the air beside Albus and his face looked positively dangerous. Minerva was suddenly a bit regretful of her earlier decision. His voice when he spoke contained a very playful tone and she relaxed only for a moment until she digested his words. "I just want you to remember my dear that you started this."

With a very un-ladylike squeal, Minerva turned and ran but the snowballs found their mark and they soaked through her back. She finally made it to a tree and ducked behind. Glancing back from the direction she had come, she saw Albus headed her way and conjured several snowballs to help slow him down. They pelted him in the chest but didn't seem to help. Soon the landscape was a blur of white as dozens of snowballs were thrown between the two opponents. Minerva deserted the tree and started running again. Suddenly an idea came to her and she fell to the ground with a short scream.

The air around them became silent for only a moment. "Minerva, are you okay?" Albus ran over to where she lay and his features were a mask of concern. Minerva held up her hand and as Albus grasped it she pulled him onto the ground beside her, completely dousing him in cold wet snow. Both laughed until tears filled their eyes. Albus' hands reached up to cup Minerva's face and their eyes met. His lips caressed hers like a soft whisper and Minerva sighed. The kiss deepened and for several minutes all thoughts were erased from Albus' mind. Through the haze that had surrounded him, he felt Minerva start to shiver. He slowly broke away when he realized she was chilled.

Albus helped Minerva to her feet. He conjured a blanket for her and cast a warming spell on both of them. The sun was starting to set and he was surprised at the late hour. When he turned to speak, Minerva's beauty caused his heart to skip a beat. Standing there in the dying sunlight, her hair, which had fallen from its' usual bun, formed a glowing halo around her face. The damp tendrils curled and embraced her features. Her cheeks were pink and her eyes glowed with happiness. His heart filled with love and he realized that the moment had arrived.

Gently grasping her hands in his own, he let his thoughts and feelings flow through him. "Minerva, I have never been as happy in my life as I am with you. You are the most fascinating woman I have ever met. You have a depth in your soul that I have not seen in witches and wizards twice or three times your age. You are caring and loving, smart and wise, beautiful and aristocratic. I have been so lucky to find you and for you to care for me in return. I love you with all my heart and soul and I hope that you will consent to spending the rest of your life with me." As the final words left his lips, he detached one of his hands and held it palm up between them. There hovering just above his fingers in the fading light was the band which held the glowing, heirloom diamond and emeralds he hoped she would accept. He fell to one knee leaving the ring to dance before her. "My dear, will you marry me?"

To Be Continued…

A/N: We hope you are enjoying the story thus far…and now all you have to do is sit back and wait patiently for Minerva's answer. Will she accept…or will she have second thoughts?? And once she answers, what will happen in the next couple of chapters? Ahhh, questions, questions….  Thanks for reviewing our story and for inspiring us to continue it.

Jestana: Well your wait is over…now…how'd he do??? Was it worth the wait??? We sure hope so!  ^_^

Liz O'Brien: Yes, Harold really is a softie when it comes to his daughter's happiness. And now that Albus has proposed, we just have to wait for Minerva's response. Let's hope it turns out the way we want it to. ^_^

Snickerdoodle: Awww…you made us blush with your compliments! Thanks for that! We're thrilled that you're enjoying our story so much and we hope we didn't disappoint you in this chapter.

Kemenran: Surprise! Now you just have to wait to see what happens in the next installment of our story…thanks for reviewing.

Evilwoman: The horrible nightmares are over for now and Albus was so loving and concerned for his Minerva, that we couldn't let is just end there! So, as you requested, we sent another chapter and we hope you are pleased!

Punurple: Minerva is like her father in many ways…glad you picked up on that! And who said cliffhangers had to be bad things??? Some cliffhangers are good…now will Minerva accept his proposal or will she have second thoughts??? HMMM???

Stee Parker: You do deserve an honor for being our first reviewer…BIG HUG! And thanks for the compliments on our writing and story. We truly appreciate your comments and feedback!  Poor Albus, though, he has to live the rest of his life with a crooked nose, but it will always remind him of how he almost lost Minerva and the love he has for her. Awwww….

Pal, Gollum & Smeagol: How's this for a small cliffie??? And how could Albino break up with his one and only Tabby??? He loves her too much to do that. Now, the question arises…will she agree to marry him?  The sorting bit was great but Moldie Voldie "shall not harm Harry Rotter or Albino or Tabby…" (said in our best Dobby voice)  ^_^ You just have to let it have a happy ending…pleasseee!!!

Chicken13: Hey…you can see the light too…yeah!!! And maybe there's a happy ending around the corner but we've still got a few chapters up our sleeves…so keep those fingers crossed and those reviews coming!

Minni: Ahhh, well our dear Albus has finally proposed but will she accept right away? Hmmm?? Another thing to ponder between updates. And we wouldn't want to spoil Minerva's secret by telling you what she bought in Hogsmeade. You'll just have to wait, along with Albus, until she decides to *reveal* the secret! Hint Hint…wink wink…

Nerweniel: NOOO…not the evil wrath…we give, we give…take your chapter and we promise to have the next one up asap.  Glad you love our story….and we hope we didn't disappoint you in this chapter.