Part three – Poppy Pomfrey

We all arrived at the ball half an hour ago and there is still no sign of Minerva and Albus. I'm on the verge of silencing Rolanda again as she's making rather rude suggestions about what they are up to and I must admit I am rather curious myself. However Rolanda is saved as they walk in the door.

I notice the flower he gave her is tucked behind her ear and they are both smiling. The room became silent when they entered and nearly everyone is staring. I'm not surprised as they make a striking couple and it isn't just Albus that's getting appreciative looks. Minerva is getting uncomfortable with the attention and Albus waves his hand to greet everyone and the spell is broken.

As the chatter breaks out again, I can hear most of it is about Minerva's appearance. Several of her former pupils are staring at her and every one is surprised by the change in her. Some of the older witches are quite put out and I can't help but smirk.

They are barely in the room when a group of young witches descend upon Albus. Minerva looks annoyed and as if she's about to hex them so the three of us abandon our dates and hurry over, eager to avert a crisis. Well I am, the others just want a better view. We arrive and the first thing out of Rolanda's mouth is "What have the pair of you been up to?" Minerva reaches for her wand and years of being friends with the two of them makes me quick to stop her from cursing Rolanda. I see Minerva try and compose herself but she still looks uneasy by the looks sent in her direction. However she smirks slightly when she sees the look of horror on Albus's face. "I think I'll go rescue Albus" she says and there's an evil grin on her face. She walks up to the group of witches and says something which added with her glare sends them all running. Albus gives her a grateful grin and Rolanda squeals with glee. "I've rubbed off on her" and laughs manically enough that the people in our vicinity back away. Pomona and I, with long years of practice, ignore her and watch Albus and Minerva.

They are now dancing around the room and gradually others follow. Some brave witches and wizards try to cut in but in every case they are turned down. Slowly people stop trying as it becomes obvious that they are in a world of there own as they continue to dance past the end of each song. They are so close they are touching and when they finally look into each others eyes people have to look away for the love radiating from them is powerful. I don't understand how they managed to stay apart all these years. I give a sigh and Pomona and Rolanda look at me, giving me an understanding smile.

Finally all our efforts have paid off.