A/N - Hey everyone! So far, I've told this story from Hermione's or Remus' point of view, except for two scenes. But Andromeda needed to have her say about her date with Kingsley, so there is a section from her POV in this chapter.

Thanks for reading and reviewing! Enjoy!

Chapter 74

Date

12 May 2000

Remus looked up as Andromeda walked into the living room. His eyes widened. He had always known Andromeda was an attractive woman, although he didn't consciously think about it. She was his mother-in-law after all. But tonight, she looked stunning. Her hair was done up in some complicated twist and she was wearing a bit more make-up than usual. Her dress robes were very flattering. She brought a hand to her hair, looking a bit self-conscious.

"Well?" she finally said. "Do I look all right?" Remus rose from his chair and walked towards her. He took both her hands in his.

"You look beautiful," he said. "Kingsley won't know what hit him." She rolled her eyes.

"I told you, Remus. It is not a date."

"As you say," he said with a smirk. She glared at him. Teddy looked up from his toys at their conversation. He jumped to his feet and ran towards his grandmother. Remus intercepted him and picked him up, so he wouldn't wrinkle her robes.

"Doesn't Nanna look nice?" Remus asked. Teddy nodded.

"You boo-ful, Nanna." Remus chuckled. Teddy had obviously been listening to their conversation.

"Thank you, darling," she said, leaning in and kissing Teddy's cheek. "You be a good boy tonight, all right?" Teddy nodded again.

"My-nee!" he said. Andromeda smiled.

"Yes, I know you are going to Hermione's. I am sure you will have a wonderful time." She turned to the Floo.

"We'll be back at Teddy's bedtime, but stay out as late as you like," Remus said. Andromeda looked over her shoulder at him.

"It is not a date."

"I'm aware," Remus said, enjoying teasing her a bit. It was only fair he return the favor, after all. She shook her head in exasperation. "Enjoy yourself."

"I will see you later." She stepped into the Floo and disappeared.

"See My-nee, Daddy?" Teddy asked after his grandmother had left.

"Yes, we'll go see Hermione," Remus said.

"Go now?" Remus laughed.

"Yes, we'll go now." He put his son on his feet. "Go and get your shoes." Teddy raced out of the room and Remus shook his head fondly as he summoned Teddy's bag and gathered up a few of his toys to take with them. When Teddy returned, Remus helped him put on his shoes and then they stepped into the fireplace.

Remus watched as Teddy tried to get Crookshanks interested in some of his toys. The cat twitched his tail in what Remus could only assume was boredom and began licking his front paws. Chuckling, Remus walked into the kitchen where Hermione was working at the cooker. He wrapped his arms around her waist and felt her lean back into him.

"How was Andromeda before she left?" Hermione asked.

"Well, despite the fact that she insisted it wasn't a date, twice," Remus said in amusement, "I think she was a bit nervous. She looked beautiful, though."

"I hope they have a good time," Hermione said. "I think they would be good for one another."

"I tend to agree," Remus said. "But I'm not sure that Andromeda is ready to admit she'd like to date again." Hermione turned in his arms and looked up at him.

"I imagine it's difficult for her. She and Ted were together for a very long time."

"Since their sixth year," Remus agreed. Hermione wrapped her arms around his neck and stood on tiptoe to kiss him. He smiled down at her when they parted.

"My-nee!" Teddy called as he raced into the kitchen.

"What's the matter?" she asked, dropping her arms from around Remus' neck, wrapping one around his waist instead.

"Tat runned way!" Remus stifled a laugh in Hermione's hair. He was surprised that Crookshanks had been patient for as long as he had.

"Crookshanks ran away?" Hermione questioned. Teddy nodded vigorously. "Where did he go?"

"He go up!"

"Upstairs?" Teddy nodded again. "He's probably just tired."

"Take nap?" Teddy asked.

"Yes, he's probably taking a nap." Teddy contemplated this for a few moments, his little brow furrowed.

"He pay me?"

"Maybe later," Hermione said. Remus cleared his throat to cover another laugh. He highly doubted there would ever be a day when Crookshanks would willingly play with Teddy. "Now, are you hungry?"

"Yes!" Teddy said.

"Good, because dinner is just about ready."

"Let's wash your hands," Remus said, picking up his son and carrying him to the sink. Hermione had already set the table and transfigured one of the chairs into a highchair for Teddy. After his hands were washed, Remus sat Teddy in his chair, while Hermione brought the spaghetti to the table.

Remus and Hermione laughed as Teddy devoured his spaghetti. Plenty of it ended up on his face and the floor, although he was getting much better at using a fork. When he finally gave up on the fork and just picked the spaghetti up with his hands, Remus shook his head and looked over at Hermione. She was watching Teddy with a look of fondness on her face. Remus felt his heart twist at how much she loved his son. He couldn't have asked for anything more.

Well, he supposed he could, but he wasn't going to. Not yet anyway. It was still too soon.

Reaching across the table, he took her hand. When she looked at him, he brought it to his lips, kissing the back of it. She squeezed his fingers and turned her attention back to Teddy, wiping a bit of sauce off his nose with a napkin. Teddy grinned at her and shoved more pasta in his mouth.

Remus was gathering up Teddy's things, while Hermione held the sleepy toddler. She wanted to ask them to stay. They could transfigure a cot for Teddy and Remus could always go home and get Teddy's pajamas. She wanted to ask them to stay forever, but she didn't. It was still too soon and Hermione couldn't do that to Andromeda.

When Remus had finished, he put the bag over his shoulder and turned back to her. Hermione smiled and he walked forward, leaning down to kiss her. Teddy, tired as he was, barely stirred. She pulled away before she could get lost in the kiss. Remus kissed her forehead and then reached for his son.

"Come on, Teddy," he said, gently taking the boy from Hermione's arms. "Time to go home."

"Me pay tat," Teddy mumbled as he settled into Remus' shoulder. Remus snorted. Hermione smothered a laugh with her hand. Crookshanks had come back downstairs for a few minutes after dinner, but he ran off again when Teddy lunged for him and didn't return for the rest of the night.

"You might have to get a cat," Hermione said with a grin.

"I'm shocked that you would condone terrorizing an innocent animal." Hermione laughed. Remus smiled and leaned down to kiss her again.

"Teddy and I are planning on going to the park tomorrow if you would like to join us." Hermione smiled.

"I'd love to."

"Eleven?" She nodded.

"I'll be there." She put a hand on Teddy's head.

"Good night, Teddy." Teddy yawned and mumbled something under his breath.

"Good night, love," Remus said.

"Good night."

Remus was in the kitchen when he heard the Floo. He started to walk into the living to ask Andromeda how her night had gone when he heard the Floo a second time. Brow furrowing, he moved toward the door to the living room which was half open. He stopped when he heard a familiar baritone respond to something Andromeda said.

Remus moved behind the door to the kitchen. A part of him felt badly about eavesdropping, but it was overshadowed by his intense curiosity as to what Kingsley was doing in his house.

"I told you it wasn't necessary to escort me through the Floo," Andromeda was saying.

"I wanted to be sure you arrived safely," Kingsley said.

"I have been using the Floo on my own since I was eight years old," Andromeda said dryly. "I believe I would have managed." Remus could picture the expression on her face. Kingsley chuckled.

"Perhaps it was just an excuse to spend a bit more time with you then."

"Flatterer," Andromeda said, amusement in her voice.

"I very much enjoyed this evening," Kingsley said.

"It enjoyed it as well. The French Minister is quite charming." Kingsley laughed.

"Thank you for accompanying me," he said. There was silence and Remus chanced a peek around the door. Kingsley had taken Andromeda's hand and raised it to his mouth, his lips lingering.

"Good night, Andromeda," Kingsley said.

"Good night." He smiled at her before he stepped back into the Floo. Remus waited a minute before walking into the living room.

"Oh, you're home," he said. "I thought I heard the Floo. How was your evening?"

"It was very pleasant, thank you. How was yours?"

"Entertaining," Remus said. Andromeda looked at him questioningly. "Teddy was rather enamored with Hermione's cat. The feeling was not mutual." Andromeda laughed. They stood looking at one another for a few moments.

"You're not going to elaborate?" Remus finally asked.

"Elaborate on what?"

"Your date."

"It was not a date."

"Fine, your very pleasant evening, then."

"We had drinks and dinner with the French and German Ministers and their wives. I'm not sure what else there is to elaborate on."

"I don't know, maybe that fact that Kingsley brought you home," Remus said. Andromeda's eyes narrowed.

"He was being a gentleman," she said. "I told him it was not necessary."

"All right," Remus said, trying to keep a smile from his face.

"It was not a date," Andromeda said again.

"You've said that." She huffed.

"It is late and I am tired. Good night, Remus." Before she could leave the room, Remus grasped her hand.

"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself." Her face softened and she patted his cheek. A little harder than was strictly necessary, in Remus' opinion.

"I will see you in the morning."

"Good night."

13 May 2000

Teddy rode on Remus' shoulders as they walked home from the park. They had spent nearly an hour there, Teddy running from the swings to the slide to the climber and back again. His energy finally seemed to have waned as they started the walk back to the house. After only a few feet, he was begging to be carried. Hermione figured he would nap quite well this afternoon.

"Who dat?" Teddy asked. Hermione looked up and saw a delivery van parked near Remus' house. There was a florist's logo on the side. A man got out with an armful of flowers and started up the drive. Hermione glanced at Remus in question. He shook his head, obviously having no idea either.

They continued towards the house as the man knocked on the front door. Remus pulled Teddy down from his shoulders, settling him on his hip.

"Who dat, Daddy?" Teddy asked again.

"He's bringing Nanna flowers," Remus said as Andromeda answered the door, looking surprised. She took the large bouquet from the man, thanking him and closing the door. Hermione and Remus made it to the drive as the man was walking back to his van. He gave them a wave, smiling when Teddy waved back.

"Kingsley?" Hermione questioned.

"That would be my guess," Remus said. They walked around the back of the house, entering the kitchen through the back door. Andromeda was in the kitchen, putting the flowers into a vase.

"Those are beautiful," Hermione said. Andromeda looked over her shoulder at them.

"They are that."

"Me see," Teddy insisted and Remus set him down. He ran to his grandmother who picked him up. Teddy leaned over and smelled the flowers with an exaggerated sniff.

"Boo-ful," he echoed. Remus chuckled.

"Who are they from?" Remus asked innocently. Andromeda gave him a look, somewhere between a glare and exasperation. Figuring the two needed a moment, Hermione turned to Teddy.

"Teddy let's go wash your hands, all right?" Andromeda set him down and he ran to Hermione. She scooped him up, then walked down the corridor to the loo.

"I'm guessing they're from Kingsley," Remus said once Hermione and Teddy were gone.

"Yes," Andromeda said.

"Must have been some date," Remus said.

"Remus, I have told you, it was not," but Remus held up a hand to stop her.

"He sent you flowers from a Muggle florist, Andromeda, just because we live in a Muggle neighborhood. I'm quite sure Kingsley, at least, thinks it was a date." She sighed. Remus stepped up next to her. "What's the matter, really?"

"I do not know," she admitted.

"Do you like him?"

"Of course, I like him. He is a very charming man."

"You know that's not what I meant." She sighed again and moved to sit down at the kitchen table. Remus followed, hoping Hermione would keep Teddy occupied for a bit longer.

"As I told you before, I am not sure that I am ready to date."

"I understand that," Remus said. He reached over and took Andromeda's hand. "A few months ago, you told me that Dora would want me to be happy. Ted would want the same for you."

"I know that," Andromeda said, her breath hitching slightly. Remus squeezed her hand. She looked over at him. "He is the Minister for Magic."

"And?" Remus said.

"Any private life he has is going to be scrutinized and publicized and lived out in the press. There was already a photograph in the Prophet this morning and plenty of speculation." Remus hadn't seen the paper today; Teddy had kept him busy since he woke up. Speaking of, Remus heard noise in the corridor and then Hermione suggesting they go into the living to play with Teddy's toys.

"That is something to consider," Remus agreed. Publicity around Kingsley and Andromeda would likely be even worse than it was for Hermione and Remus. "But if you really are interested in him, it might be worth it." Andromeda laughed breathlessly.

"I have not dated anyone since I was sixteen," she said. "I have no idea what to do."

"It hasn't changed all that much," Remus replied in amusement. "Except there's less snogging in broom cupboards." She looked at him, a shocked laugh escaping. He shrugged a shoulder, smirk on his face.

"Did you know that we were in school together?" Andromeda asked. Remus shook his head. Kingsley was older than him, but Remus had never known how much older exactly. Andromeda had finished school the spring before Remus started. "We were in the same year, but he was a Ravenclaw."

"Did you know each other?"

"Not really," Andromeda said. "I knew who he was, of course. He was in a few of my classes, but I am not sure if we ever spoke."

"While I am admitting this in fear for my immediate safety, I overheard the two of you last night," Remus said.

"You eavesdropped, you mean."

"Well, I suppose if you want to get technical about it, yes." Andromeda shook her head, but Remus could see the amusement in her eyes. "I've known Kingsley for a few years now and I could tell he was quite taken with you." She looked away, but not before Remus saw the slight blush on her cheeks.

"He is very…charming."

"So you've said," Remus replied. "I feel like there's more to it than charm, but that's your business." There was a tapping at the window and they looked up to see an owl hovering outside. Remus rose to let him in and the bird flew to Andromeda, holding out its leg after landing on the table. She removed the scroll and unrolled it.

"He has asked me to dinner," she said.

"When?"

"Tomorrow night." Andromeda stared at the note while the owl stared at her, clearly waiting for a response.

"Are you going to go?" Remus asked.

"I do not know," she said. She looked up at Remus helplessly. "I don't know what to do." He sat down beside her again.

"It's just dinner, Andromeda," Remus said gently. Looking down at the note again, she summoned a quill. She scratched out a quick reply and then retied it to the owl's leg. The owl flew off through the still open window. Remus waited for Andromeda to say something, but she continued staring at the tabletop.

"Andromeda?"

"I'm sorry," she said, rising from the table and practically running from the room. Remus stared after her in concern, wondering what she'd written back to Kingsley.

They'd had lunch and put Teddy down for his nap, but Andromeda still hadn't come down from her room. Remus was starting to get concerned.

"You should go up and talk to her," Hermione said. They were sitting on the couch, Hermione leaned into his side. Remus rubbed a hand up and down her arm. Hermione toyed with a button on his shirt. "I'm sure you understand how she's feeling." Remus had told Hermione about the dinner invitation when she questioned if Andromeda was joining them for lunch.

While he ate, Remus had pulled out the Prophet and read the article accompanying the photographs of their dinner the night before. While it was ostensibly a report on the official dinner with the German and French Ministers, Andromeda was right when she'd said there was plenty of speculation about her and Kingsley.

"You know that I don't feel like I'm betraying Dora by dating you, don't you?" Remus asked, wanting to reassure her.

"I know you don't feel that way anymore," Hermione replied with a smile. Remus stared at her. "You never said anything, but I suspected that was one of your reasons against us being together."

"Hermione-" he began, but she shook her head.

"No, it's all right. I think I would have been more surprised if you hadn't felt that way. I know how much you loved her." He pushed a hand into her hair, cupping the back of her head. Then he leaned down and kissed her. He still wasn't sure how he had gotten so lucky twice in his life. She smiled up at him.

"I've got to go anyway," she said. "I promised Ginny I'd help her with wedding stuff today. She goes back to Wales tomorrow." She sat up and kissed him again.

"What time will you be back tonight?" he asked.

"After dinner," she replied. "Stop by if you like."

"I will definitely be there," he said, pulling her in for one more kiss.

"Okay, I really have to go," she said, looking like she would rather stay and continue what they were doing. "And you have to talk to Andromeda." He nodded and stood from the couch, holding out a hand to her. Once she was standing, he wrapped his arms around her.

"Have fun with Ginny," he said. She kissed him quickly and nodded.

"I'll see you tonight." She grabbed the Floo powder and stepped into the fireplace, disappearing in a flash of green. Remus stood there staring at the fireplace for a few moments before turning to the stairs.

He knocked lightly on Andromeda's door, not wanting to disturb her if she was resting.

"Come in," she said. Remus opened the door and stepped inside. Andromeda was sitting in one of the armchairs in front of the window. She was staring out into the back garden.

"You missed lunch," Remus said. "Are you hungry?"

"No, thank you," Andromeda replied. "Has Hermione gone?"

"Yes, she went to talk to Ginny about the wedding." Remus moved to the chair next to Andromeda and sat down. "Do you want to talk about it?" She sighed.

"I loved Ted for more than half my life," she said. "It is very difficult for me to imagine being with anyone else."

"Did you imagine you would spend the rest of your life alone?" Remus asked.

"Not alone," she said. "I have you and Teddy."

"If you'll remember, I said something similar to you and you told me I needed more than that. That I deserved more than that. The same applies to you." She gave him a wry smile.

"Turning my own words against me?"

"If I have to," he replied with his own smile. They sat in silence for a few minutes. She was looking down at her wedding ring, twisting it back and forth on her finger.

"Perhaps I should speak to Ted," she finally said. Remus looked at her, knowing she was planning on going to the cemetery.

"Do you want me to come with you?" he asked. "I'm sure that Hermione and Ginny could talk about the wedding here."

"No, this is something I need to do by myself," she said. She reached over and took his hand in hers, giving it a squeeze. Remus nodded and stood from his chair. Andromeda did not let go of his hand. "Thank you, Remus." He smiled, then leaned down and kissed her cheek.

"Take your time." He turned and left the room, hoping that she would find the peace she so obviously needed.

Hermione and Remus lay on her couch, her head resting on his shoulder while he idly played with her hair. She propped her chin on his chest and looked up at him.

"How's Andromeda?"

"She spent a good part of the afternoon at the cemetery," Remus said. "But when she came home, she told me she'd stopped in Diagon Alley and sent Kingsley an owl accepting his invitation." Hermione smiled. "She's still a bit nervous about it, I think."

"But she's already been out with him once."

"Yes, but that was with other people and she refused to call it a date," Remus said. "Now, she's openly acknowledging that's what it is."

"Well, I hope they have a lovely time," Hermione said.

"So do I." Hermione traced her finger around one of the buttons on his shirt.

"I talked to my parents this morning," she said. "They invited us to come visit them again."

"I'd almost forgotten about that," Remus said.

"I'm going to go sometime in July, I think, but I'd love for you and Teddy to come with me." He pushed a curl behind her ear and smiled at her.

"For how long?" he asked.

"I planned to go for a week, but if that's too long we could shorten it."

"Maybe four or five days?" Remus suggested. "It's just that it's Teddy's first holiday and I'm not sure how he's going to react."

"That sounds fine," she replied, happy that he wanted to come with her. "I'll talk to my parents and see if they have any plans." She leaned forward and kissed him. When they parted, she laid her head back down on his shoulder and his hand moved back into her hair. She was content, for the moment, to just lie in the quiet and enjoy being close to him.

14 May 2000

Remus stood in front of the fireplace kissing Hermione. He'd stayed much later this morning than he normally did. Andromeda had insisted that he didn't need to be home for breakfast. Remus suspected that she was trying to keep herself as busy as possible so she didn't think too much about this evening.

"Mm," she said as he finally broke the kiss. "Are you sure you don't want to stay a bit longer?" He smiled down at her.

"You know I do," he replied. "But I think Andromeda is going to need plenty of distraction today."

"You're likely right about that," Hermione said.

"What are your plans for the day?"

"I'm going to go over to the Burrow this afternoon," Hermione said. "Charlie is in town, he came to see Victoire. I haven't seen him for ages." Remus tried to tamp down on the flare of jealousy at the mention of the dragon tamer. The kiss between Hermione and Charlie last Christmas had been completely innocent, he knew that. There was no reason for Remus to be jealous. He knew that the moon only being four days away was influencing his emotions. Hermione, thankfully, seemed oblivious as she continued speaking.

"Are you coming to the family dinner tonight?" Remus shook his head.

"Andromeda isn't leaving until half six." The Weasley dinners always started around five. "We should stay until she leaves, I think." Hermione nodded.

"You could stop by for pudding," she suggested.

"Maybe," he replied. He leaned down and kissed her again, a bit more forceful and possessive than usual. When he pulled away, she looked at him quizzically.

"Are you all right?"

"I'm fine," he assured her. She studied his face for a moment, obviously not completely convinced, but she didn't say anything else. "I had better go."

"All right," she said. "Maybe I'll see you tonight." He kissed her one last time.

"You probably will." She smiled as he grabbed the Floo powder.

"You look very nice," Remus said as Andromeda's hands fluttered over her dress, smoothing out nonexistent wrinkles. "It's nice that Kingsley chose a Muggle restaurant. You won't have to worry about the press bothering you." Andromeda nodded absently, clearly not really listening to him. Remus walked towards her, putting his hands on her upper arms.

"Andromeda," he said. "Relax." She shook her head.

"This is a mistake."

"Why?" Remus asked, releasing her arms.

"I, it is too soon," she said.

"If you truly believe that, then Kingsley will understand," Remus said. "But if you're just nervous,"

"Of course, I am nervous," Andromeda snapped before Remus could continue. She sighed and rubbed at her forehead with her fingertips. "I'm sorry."

"Don't apologize," Remus said. "Are you really not ready?"

"No, I, no. I don't know."

"I thought you enjoyed yourself on Friday."

"I did," Andromeda said.

"Then just think of tonight as an extension of that," Remus suggested. "The two of you must have gotten on well."

"We did, but there were others present."

"Somehow, I don't think that the presence of the others is what you enjoyed." He saw the beginnings of a smile on her lips.

"Perhaps not."

"It's just dinner," Remus said. "Go and enjoy talking to another adult that isn't me." She laughed and he smiled, glad she had relaxed somewhat.

The Floo flared and Andromeda tensed again as Kingsley stepped out. Teddy, who had been playing with his toys and completely ignoring his father and grandmother, jumped up, likely expecting someone he knew to step through. When he saw Kingsley, he hurried to Remus' side, hiding a bit behind his leg.

"Good evening, Andromeda," Kingsley said. "Remus."

"Kingsley," Remus greeted. Kingsley smiled as he saw Teddy.

"Hello, Teddy." Teddy buried his face in Remus' leg and Kingsley chuckled. Remus bent and reached behind him, picking up his son.

"Can you say hello?"

"Who dat?" Teddy asked.

"This is Kingsley," Andromeda said. "Do you remember meeting him when we were at Hogwarts?" Teddy just stared at Kingsley for a few moments before giving him a little wave. Kingsley chuckled again.

"It's very nice to see you again, Teddy." He turned to Andromeda, taking her hand in his and kissing the back of it. "You look lovely." Remus could see the slight blush on Andromeda's cheeks.

"Thank you," she said.

"Do you mind Apparating?" Kingsley asked. "There really isn't a Floo close to the restaurant."

"No, I don't mind," Andromeda said. "Let me just get my wrap." Kingsley nodded and watched her walk out of the room. He turned back to Remus.

"I suppose now is your chance to threaten me if I do anything untoward," Kingsley said with amusement.

"I don't think I need to do that," Remus said with a small smile. "Just…be patient with her." Kingsley's smirk turned to a frown.

"Is she all right?"

"She will be," Remus said.

"Ted?" Kingsley asked. Remus nodded. "I figured as much when she sent back my owl telling me she would have to think about the dinner invitation." Their conversation stopped when Andromeda walked back into the room. She glanced between the two of them, but both men gave her genuine smiles.

"Where go, Nanna?" Teddy asked.

"Kingsley and I are going to have dinner."

"Me go?" he asked. Andromeda smiled and walked towards him.

"You have already eaten your dinner," she said. Teddy pouted. "Besides, I thought you were going to the Burrow to see Harry and Hermione?"

"Daddy, we go?" Teddy asked excitedly.

"In a few minutes," Remus said in amusement.

"Give Nanna a kiss now," Andromeda said. Teddy leaned forward and placed a smacking kiss on her cheek. "I will see you in the morning."

"Have a good evening," Remus said to both of them as they all walked to the back door. Kingsley opened the door and held out an arm to Andromeda. She took it with another small blush and they walked to the back of the garden past the wards. Remus watched from the doorway as Kingsley said something to Andromeda. She smiled up at him and he pulled her slightly closer to his body, placing his free hand on top of hers. Turning, they Disapparated.

Remus came back into the living room at the Burrow after changing Teddy's nappy to see that Charlie had sat down on the couch next to Hermione. She was turned slightly towards him, one foot tucked up under her, laughing at something he was saying. Remus heard the wolf growl in his head. He took a breath, forcing himself to stop being ridiculous.

"Daddy," Teddy whined. Remus realized his hold on his son had tightened.

"I'm sorry," Remus said, setting the toddler on his feet. Teddy ran off to where Harry was sitting with Ron and Susan. Ginny had left a short time ago for Wales. Remus walked towards Hermione. She looked up at him with a smile as he sat down on her other side. He immediately took her hand in his. If she was surprised by this show of affection, she didn't show it.

"Charlie was just telling me about the reception he got when he first met Victoire," Hermione said with a grin.

"Fleur had just finished feeding her. I picked her up and she returned her meal all over my shoulder." Remus smiled faintly.

"Yes, they'll do that," he said, his voice a bit tight. Hermione looked at him strangely.

"Are you all right?" she asked.

"I'm fine," he said, hoping the smile he gave her was genuine. Remus wasn't sure if he was having this strong of a reaction to Charlie because of the impending moon, the fact that he'd kissed Hermione before, or that he was the only unattached male in the room. Remus suspected it was a combination of the three.

He knew he was being ridiculous. Charlie had no romantic interest in Hermione. And Hermione had certainly shown him that Remus was the only one she wanted. But he couldn't stop his arm from moving to her shoulder, pulling her closer to him. Because they had kept their relationship hidden for so long, they still weren't overly affectionate when they were around other people. He was sure that Hermione was wondering what he was doing. When Charlie finally excused himself to get something else to drink, Hermione whirled to face Remus.

"What is going on?" she hissed quietly.

"Nothing," Remus said, but he knew she didn't believe him. Standing, she turned towards Harry. He had Teddy on his lap and the little boy looked to be close to falling asleep. Tugging on Remus' hand, she pulled him from the room and through the kitchen to the back garden.

"I'll repeat, what is going on?" Remus sighed and ran a hand through his hair.

"I'm sorry," he said. "I'm trying not to."

"You're trying not to what?" Hermione demanded.

"I know you don't like jealousy," he said.

"What could you possibly have to be jealous of?" He shook his head. "Is it Charlie?" Remus looked away, saying nothing. "You're jealous of Charlie?"

"No, I," but he trailed off with a sigh. She stood in front of him with her hands on her hips.

"Have I ever given you any indication that you need to be jealous when I talk to other men?"

"Of course not! It's not that, I," he made a noise of frustration. "I don't want to blame this on the moon, but it's only four days away and Charlie kissed you at Christmas-"

"You kissed me at Christmas," Hermione interrupted. "And you're the one I'm with, not Charlie."

"I know that, Hermione," Remus said. "I know the kiss between you and Charlie didn't mean anything, but he's not seeing anyone and, it's, my instincts are just, I, I'm sorry." He turned away from her, disgusting with himself for his reaction and the fact that he couldn't articulate what he wanted to say. Not to mention the fact that she had to keep reassuring him, even after all these months. He cursed the fact that he was a werewolf and was going to have to deal with this stupid possessiveness that reared its head each month. Hermione would never stand for it and he didn't blame her.

"Remus," she said and he turned back around to look at her. "Charlie is my friend."

"I know," Remus replied.

"I'm not going to stop talking to him because your wolf is in a snit." He snorted. It was as apt a description as any.

"I don't expect you to," he said. "Maybe Teddy and I should just go."

"Is that going to make you feel better?"

"No," he admitted. Likely he would be even more agitated.

"Then stay," she said. "Just stop with the need to mark your territory."

"Hermione, I don't think," but she stopped him with a kiss. He let himself fall into it, pulling her tightly against him. Walking her backwards, he pushed her up against the house and snogged her. Her hands pushed into his hair, tugging lightly on the ends and he groaned into her mouth. His lips moved to her neck where he nipped and scraped his teeth lightly over her skin.

"Remus, Remus we shouldn't," but the rest of what she was going to say was cut off when he ground himself against her. She let out a breathy moan. The sound brought him back to himself and he pulled away from her reluctantly, trying to get himself under control.

"I'm sorry," he said, but when he looked back at her, she was biting her lip and looking like she'd like nothing more than to let him shag her up against the house, despite what she'd said. He moved back towards her for a moment before he stopped. No, they couldn't do this. Everyone was just inside. His son was in there for fuck's sake.

The thought of Teddy was enough to quell his rising desire. He scrubbed a hand down his face and looked back at Hermione.

"I don't think of you as my territory," he said, trying to get back to the point at hand.

"I know you don't," she said. The meaning was clear. Remus might not, but the wolf surely did. He sighed and looked away from her. She put a hand on his arm and when he looked up at her, her expression had softened.

"Charlie is just a friend. Honestly, even if you and I weren't together, he wouldn't be interested in me." Remus looked at her quizzically. "He's not interested in anyone."

"Ah," Remus said in understanding. She took another step towards him and Remus wrapped his arms around her. "I am sorry."

"I know you are," she said, looking up at him. "And I know you try very hard not to act this way." She stood on tiptoe to kiss him lightly. He didn't deepen the kiss, not trusting himself to be able to stop again, regardless of who was inside the Burrow.

"We should probably get back inside," he said.

"Afraid if we stay out here, you'll have your wicked way with me?" she said with a glint in her eye.

"Hermione," he groaned. She laughed and then kissed him quickly. She took his hand and pulled him back towards the house.

Andromeda held tightly to Kingsley's arm as they Disapparated. They landed in a small alley and Andromeda immediately looked around to see if they had been observed.

"Muggle repelling charm," Kingsley said. "There are a few places like this in London."

"And I suppose as Minister, you are privy to them all?"

"Actually, I found out about them when I was an Auror," he said, leading her from the alley. "Standard information to have, especially during the wars." She nodded and they fell silent as they reached the pavement.

When they reached the restaurant and were shown to their table, Andromeda was glad to see it wasn't one of the ones located in a few of the shadowy corners. She knew she wasn't ready for the implications of that kind of table.

Kingsley helped her with her wrap and then pulled out her chair for her. He smiled when he sat down across from her.

"Have you eaten here before?" she asked once they had been presented with menus and the hostess had left.

"Just once," he said. She found herself wondering who he had dined with. "When I was guarding the Muggle Prime Minister, he had a party here for the staff. It was in a small room in the back that they rent out for such things." For some reason, Andromeda was relieved to know that he hadn't been here on a date before. She pushed that thought out of her mind as ridiculous.

Their conversation was a bit stilted at first, but after a few minutes, they were talking easily with each other. As Andromeda had already experienced at the dinner two night ago, Kingsley had a wonderful sense of humor and she found herself laughing quite often.

"What about you?" he asked halfway through the main course. They had been discussing why he decided to become an Auror.

"What about me?" she said.

"Did you ever think about a career? From what I remember, you did very well at school." She laughed lightly.

"Black daughters were not raised to have something as common as a career," she said. "We were supposed to marry well and look beautiful on our husband's arm. Perhaps join a charity board or two. If my father had had his way, we would not have attended Hogwarts at all, let alone beyond fifth year. There was no need for it, in his opinion."

"Your mother pushed for it then?"

"Oh no," Andromeda replied. "Mother shared whatever opinions Father had. No, my grandfather Pollux insisted on it, actually. He told Father that he would not have three uneducated granddaughters who could not tell a Hippogriff from a garden gnome. He threatened to cut Father from the will if he did not send us to school."

"Did you ever think about it?"

"I was always interested in being a Healer," she admitted. "But I never expected to be able to pursue it. I knew I would be presented to society once I finished Hogwarts and have a betrothal contract soon after. I knew that no Pureblood husband would ever allow his wife his wife to have a job."

"After Ted and I eloped and I was burned from the family tapestry, I considered trying to get into the Healer's program. But, then Nymphadora came along. I was raised by House-Elves. I wanted to be a mother to my child, like my mother never was." She felt a wave of emotion for a moment and was surprised when Kingsley reached across the table and covered her hand with his.

"I'm sorry for bringing up a sensitive topic."

"I, it wasn't that," she said. "Thinking about them is sometimes still…difficult."

"I understand," Kingsley replied, giving her hand a small squeeze. He took a few more bites of his food and she recovered herself.

"What about now?" he asked a few minutes later.

"What do you mean?"

"You could go into Healer training now, if you liked." Andromeda stared at him for a moment before she laughed.

"I do not think so," she said.

"Why not?" he asked.

"I am not a young woman anymore, Kingsley."

"You're not an old woman either. Not by any stretch of the imagination."

"Now you are just trying to flatter me."

"No, I'm being serious." She shook her head.

"That time has passed," she said. "Now, I am perfectly happy helping take care of my grandson." Their talk turned to other things and when they had finished, Kingsley asked if she would like to take a walk.

"It's still early," he said. "And I could use a stroll to walk off some of this food. I do a lot more sitting now than I used to when I was an Auror." Personally, Andromeda didn't think that he needed any exercise, walking or otherwise. He was still in exceptionally good shape, not that she was looking.

They strolled along the streets of London, talking and laughing, stopping to rest on benches every now and then. After nearly an hour, Andromeda realized they were back in front of the alley they had Apparated into.

"I find myself not wanting this evening to end," Kingsley said as he turned to face her. She could feel the heat in her cheeks as she smiled. "Unfortunately, I do have to work in the morning."

"And I have a little boy that likes to rise shortly after the sun," she said. Kingsley chuckled before he raised her hand to his mouth, letting his lips linger. He led her into the alley and before she could move to let go of his arm, he wrapped the other around her and turned.

They landed in her back garden and stood staring at one another for a few moments before she took a step back. Kingsley let go of her waist but kept her other arm through his and began a slow walk towards the house.

"I had a very nice time," she said once they had reached the back door. Kingsley smiled at her.

"As did I. Perhaps we could do it again?"

"I think that might be possible," she replied. They stood staring at one another for a few moments. Andromeda wasn't sure just what she wanted, but she felt herself leaning slightly towards him. As soon as she realized, she pulled back, putting her hand on the doorknob and opening the door.

"Good night," she said. Something made her linger in the doorway. Kingsley leaned towards her and panicking, Andromeda turned her head slightly so his lips only grazed the corner of her mouth. She felt her cheeks heat in embarrassment, but Kingsley merely smiled, squeezed her hand and said good night. She watched him walk to the back of the garden and disappear.

Closing the door quietly, Andromeda leaned her forehead against the cool wood for a few moments, trying to collect herself. It would not do for Remus to see her in this state. She lifted a finger to her mouth, tracing the spot where Kingsley's lips had bushed against hers. Pulling in a breath, she let it out and then walked into the living room where she was quite sure that Remus was waiting.

Remus sat on the couch reading a book when he heard the sound of Apparition outside. Glancing at the clock, he smirked. It was after eleven. He started to stand, but then decided against it. Andromeda deserved her privacy. He waited, trying to continue to read, but failing miserably. A few minutes passed, longer than it would take for Andromeda to reach the house.

He finally heard the back door open and then the sound of quiet voices. Remus turned back to his book, trying not to overhear what they were saying. He could have, easily, given how close the moon was, but he started reciting spells in his head to distract himself.

"Good night," he heard Andromeda say. There was a moment of silence and then Kingsley returned the sentiment. Remus could hear the Minister's footsteps retreating and assumed Andromeda must be watching him walk back to the edge of the wards. A few moments later, Remus heard the tell-tale crack and quickly stuck his nose back into his book. Andromeda walked into the living room a few seconds later.

"How was the dinner?" Remus asked as he looked up from the book.

"It was very nice," she replied. "The food was very good."

"Lasted quite a while," Remus said conversationally. Andromeda's eyes narrowed.

"It was a very nice restaurant," she said. "There were a few courses. And we took a walk afterwards." Remus nodded, trying to keep the smile that was threatening off his face.

"Did you enjoy yourself?"

"I did," she replied.

"Is there going to be a second date?"

"Perhaps," she said and Remus saw the slight blush on her cheeks. He couldn't help it, he finally smiled.

"Looks more like a yes to me." She scowled at him.

"That will be enough from you, thank you."

"So, you're allowed to tease me about my relationship with Hermione, but I'm not allowed to reciprocate."

"That is correct," she said. Remus chuckled. He stood from the couch and walked towards her, pulling her into a hug.

"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself. And I hope there is a second date." She squeezed him briefly before letting him go.

"Yes, well, we shall see," she said. "I am going to go up to bed." Remus nodded.

"I'll set the wards." He watched Andromeda leave the room, secret smile playing about her lips. Remus was positive there would be a second date.