Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Rainforest Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.

Chapter 15 - The Anniversary

Minerva was lucky that Filius had undertaken most of the preparations for the ball as this allowed Albus time to spend time with her. They spent this time as they had for the past few months; playing chess, reading and just being with each other.

There were times however when Minerva needed to be with other women. Particularly when shopping for dress robes. So when a Saturday dawned sunny and bright Minerva was the first one awake in her rooms, a very rare occurrence. She had the curtains open and was urging Albus out of bed so that she could give him a proper good bye, even if she was only going for a few hours.

Rolonda Hooch and Poppy Pomfrey went with her and they spent an enjoyable day at Diagon Alley, searching through stores of women's clothing before settling down for lunch at a small café. It wasn't until after lunch that Minerva found the perfect dress robes. It was a small red dress, rather slinky in style with golden embroidery. Over this a light golden robe was worn.

The dress was revealing enough for Rolonda to be happy yet modest enough for Poppy's standards while at the same time pleasing Minerva who just wanted to make Albus drool. The dress was quickly paid for and since Rolonda and Poppy had already bought their robes it was straight back to the castle where Minerva put the dress away, not giving in to Albus' cajoling to show him the dress.

POP

Minerva's classes on the day of the ball were incredibly distracted so she was relieved that they were only to go for half the day. Then the girls could prepare themselves for their big night, Minerva knew from experience that it could take a while.

This was how Minerva came to be alone in her and Albus' shared chambers. She had banished him earlier so that he would be surprised that night. He was to get ready in his office before picking her up and taking her to the Great Hall which was in the process of being decorated by Filius.

Minerva took her time, relishing a long hot bath followed by some facial treatments and some simple nail charms. She did not normally indulge in such practices so she decided to enjoy herself. After a few hours of relaxing mixed with some light reading Minerva was dressed and ready for Albus.

Just as she sat down to wait for a few moments there was a knock at her chamber doors. She quickly opened them and Albus stood, transfixed. Meanwhile Minerva was glancing over her husband, noting first a bunch of flowers in her arms, roses with baby's breath. She then noticed his robes; they made her smile in their simplicity. Instead of going all out as he was prone to do he was wearing a plain shirt and pants topped with a vest and robe. However each garment appeared to be four differed colours.

All Minerva could do was laugh, it was just so Albus. She quickly pulled him in for a short kiss, which he quickly responded to. However Minerva pulled away, reminding him of the ball.

"Before we lave Minerva, you look absolutely beautiful. I love it when you wear Gryffindor colours." Minerva just smiled, placed her flowers into a conjured vase, thanked him and led him out the door.

They found an extremely crowded Entrance Hall as all the students were allowed to come and many were taking partners from different houses. To avoid the crowd they slipped in the doors before the students even noticed they were there.

Minerva was stunned by the beauty of the hall, there were small tables all around the hall but an area in the centre was clear for dancing. There were multi coloured streamers draped across the rafters, stretching from side to side, the colours seemingly moving along them. While Minerva was admiring the decorations Albus led her to a table and after seating her nodded for Filius to open the doors.

The students slowly streamed in, looking around themselves in amazement at the decorations. Minerva smiled, thinking about how much she enjoyed teaching these students, being able to see them learn and grow and to just enjoy themselves. Something she would miss greatly.

However the night was one of celebration, not of sadness, despite the deaths which had occurred through Voldemort's reign. So once the students were seated the meal appeared on the table, a feast which was probably the best Hogwarts had ever seen as they had an important night to celebrate. It was the night of the century.

Before too long dessert was on the table, the students were practically drooling over it, as were many of the teachers. The house elves had out done themselves. It was like a sugar convention right there in the Great Hall. All different types of desserts, there was not even enough room to fit one of each on every table. Minerva only hoped the students would be prepared for the dancing which was to come.

When the music first began, the Weird Sisters were playing once again; Albus stood, held out his right hand to Minerva and said, "Will you do me the honour of having the first dance, my dear?"

Minerva smiled, took his hand and stood, allowing Albus to guide her to the dance floor. The music played, and they dance, part of one another. Enjoying their time together before tiredness would take hold of the evening forcing Minerva to retire. The joy was still there though as the couple held each other, showing their love and happiness at being together.

Resting slowly became a large part of their lives. Long days starting in bed, rising at lunch for a short walk before slipping back into bed for hours of sleep. Always together and always loving.

To be continued…

Okay that ending kind of came out of nowhere

Anyway thanks to these reviewers Quill of Minerva, Palanfaniel, Always Hopeful, bigkihap, Tartan Lioness and Eilisan.

Also for an ANZAC is an Australian biscuit and it is also the name of a group of soldiers who fought in World War 1, Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.

Only two chapters left!!!!!

Review! Oh and remember to slip, slop, slap this summer.