Chapter 5
With the knowledge of her feelings for Minerva in the forefront, she felt nervous about spending time with the older witch. Am I a Gryffindor or not? She asked herself with irritation as she slipped on a red jumper and tied back her hair. This was manageable. It had to be. She would not waste any time she was able to share with the compelling witch.
After uttering the password "unicorn," Hermione entered Minerva's private rooms. Her face lit up when she saw Minerva walking toward her. The older witch wore off-white linen slacks and a fitted, button-down black linen shirt. The casual look emphasized her long legs, svelte figure, and cleavage. Hermione swallowed convulsively. The woman was beautiful. Hermione loved seeing Minerva dressed casually, with her hair plaited in a braid or hung in a loose bun. Tonight she was wearing it in a braid. What Hermione really wanted to do was run her fingers through that mass of raven locks, to loosen it from its confines and spread it out in wild disarray.
Blinking away such dangerous thoughts, she said, "Good evening, Minerva." Her eyebrows flew up as Minerva pulled her into a tight hug.
"And to you, Hermione," Minerva answered, her Scottish brogue caressing the syllables of her name, causing Hermione to shiver. Minerva wrapped an arm around her shoulders and led Hermione to the sofa. "Filius told me how helpful you have been with the Clock Tower. I am not surprised in the least. Your help has been invaluable these last few months."
"I'm glad. I have enjoyed my time here. It has helped me to adapt after all that occurred." Hermione sat down and looked at Minerva. "You have helped me immeasurably. Thank you for your friendship, Minerva," she finished shyly.
"My dear, I am the one who is grateful," Minerva said as she took hold of Hermione's hand, interlacing their fingers. Hermione watched as Minerva stared at their clasped hands, seemingly lost in thought. "Filius also mentioned that you left the grounds last night."
"Yes. I went to the Burrow for a visit. It was nice to catch up with everyone," Hermione said.
"And Ronald? How did he treat you?"
"As if we never had that public spat. I dare say he is past it. It is a relief, although it makes me wonder whether he did harbor true feelings for me or if he just supposed we would be together, as so many assumed, and was swept away with the idea." Nodding at Minerva's raised eyebrows and lifted teapot, she watched as steaming tea swirled into her cup. "Thank you," she murmured as she added cream and sugar.
"Does that bother you?" Minerva asked.
"His not loving me after all?" Hermione looked into her cup. "Perhaps. It's just that my pride is a bit dented. Am I that easily forgettable? If he truly loved me, wouldn't it take him longer to get over those feelings?" she shook her head. "It's not even as if I want him to feel that way, though. What I told him was true—I will never return such feelings, and I want only to be his friend."
"You feel rejected even though you are the one who spurned his affections." Minerva raised a hand when Hermione began to object. "It's perfectly natural, Hermione. If it makes you feel any better, I do not believe his moving on is quite as easy as it appears. However, he is, in all probability, keeping in mind the possible repercussions if he does not respect your wishes. I suspect he will do whatever is necessary to protect your friendship."
Hermione did not know how to respond, so she sat silently. She felt young and inexperienced. Really, what did she know about romance? About feelings? She could hardly sort out her own. Although she had dated a bit over the last few years before taking off with Harry and Ron, she had never maintained a steady relationship. She did not know what it felt like to love another, to hold and be held as their passions played out. She had never engaged in experimenting, learning another's body. Lack of interest and time had prevented her. And yet here she found herself thinking of the woman in front of her in that fashion while they discussed a romance gone wrong. She was perplexed.
"I cannot help my feelings. He deserves to be with a person who can return his affections freely. And I deserve to be with someone I love," Hermione whispered. She felt her hand squeezed and realized they were still holding hands. It lifted her spirits, and she grinned.
"You are a special woman. You deserve an equal, someone who can support you, stimulate you, and love you. Ronald is not your match, Hermione."
Hermione allowed the words to flow over her, to soothe her. She wondered whether Minerva would ever believe herself to be Hermione's match. She doubted it. Hermione suddenly understood Ron's position. Hermione would never want to jeopardize her friendship with Minerva. If that meant controlling her feelings so that they could continue to spend time together, hiding the nature of her affection was a small price to pay.
"Where do you intend to go after you finish your exams?" Minerva asked as she withdrew her hand. Hermione grieved the loss of physical contact but maintained a calm demeanor.
"I am trying to determine that, actually. I know that I must leave Hogwarts." She gazed at Minerva. "Thank you for allowing me to stay here over the summer."
"You are welcome. It was the least I could do while you helped me to repair Hogwarts." Hermione watched emerald eyes darken and her mind blanked out. Minerva really had the most incredible eyes. They were attractive, alluring. She could stare into them forever. "Hermione?" she heard as a hand squeezed her shoulder.
Mortified, Hermione blushed. "I'm sorry, Minerva. I just got lost in thought." Looking up she saw a knowing smirk grace the elegant woman's face and blushed harder. Great.
"Well, I have a proposition for you," Minerva said.
Hermione fought hard to not react to the provocative words, uttered in a teasing voice. She cursed her inability to hide her feelings better. Obviously, Minerva had noticed and was making light of it.
"Which is?" Hermione asked, hoping her voice didn't sound as breathless as she felt.
"Two propositions, actually. One is business, and the other pleasure. Which would you like to hear first?"
"Um." This was unprecedented. Minerva was openly flirting with her. "Business," Hermione chose, trying hard to not allow her eyes to travel over the body that was so close to her. Minerva's top was unbuttoned just enough to reveal the curve of breasts usually hidden by thick robes. Hermione had a hard time controlling her libidinous urges.
"I am in need of a new Transfiguration professor. I fully expect you to receive top marks in your transfiguration N.E.W.T. exam, and I am offering you the position. Will you consider it, Hermione? It will make the animagus training easier to schedule, and I have grown rather fond of your presence."
"Me?" Hermione squeaked, a hand to her heart. This was incredible. She would see Minerva every day, have a place to live, and be able to continue studying, learning, honing her skills. "Yes. Of course. I would be honored to teach here. Won't my age be a problem, though? I mean most know who I am and that I just finished schooling myself."
Minerva nodded even as a radiant smile covered her visage at hearing Hermione's acceptance. "You may have to deal with an adjustment period with your students, but I have no doubt that they will grow used to the situation. You have much to offer them, and you have proven time and again your leadership abilities. I was only a few years older than you when I began teaching here. So, welcome to Hogwarts, Hermione!"
Hermione accepted the hug joyfully, feeling happiness settle within her. "Thank you, Minerva. You have done so much for me. I fear I can never repay you."
Hermione felt a soft kiss land on her cheek as Minerva pulled back to look into her eyes. "Those feelings are mutual. You have lightened my burdens, helped me to recover after so much was taken away, so much destroyed. If you weren't here," Minerva shook her head, "I do not believe I would be ready to lead everyone into the next school year."
"Oh, Minerva, you mustn't think that! You could never be beaten. Never. You would have found a way to lead on, as you always have." Hermione brushed the back of her fingers against a defined cheek. "However, I appreciate your words. I will always be here to support you in any way you will allow." They shared another smile.
"You are free to move into your new rooms at any time. There is no need for you to remain in the girls' dormitory. Tomorrow I will provide you with your teaching schedule and syllabi from past years so you can start planning your curriculum. Do not worry about it until after you have completed the N.E.W.T.s, however. You have time."
Nodding, Hermione's mind began to race at the possibilities. She struggled to pay attention as Minerva began to speak once more.
"Well, then. Now that we have discussed my business proposition, it is time to reveal my more personal request. I intend to spend time at my family manor while Hogwarts is closed. Would you care to accompany me?"
Hermione had to stop herself from flinging herself into Minerva's arms—a place where she felt more and more comfortable. Instead she smiled broadly as she nodded repeatedly. "I would love to accompany you." She took a deep breath to calm herself. Her voice took on a teasing quality as she continued. "I suspect many would be jealous of me right about now if they knew I had been invited to see it." Minerva's chuckle reverberated through Hermione, and she felt her heart rate pick up. Minerva's laugh was positively lovely, a sound she wanted to hear as often as possible.
"I believe you may be correct. Now how in the world did that happen?" Minerva asked while tapping at her chin, a look of intense concentration. She looked up, a twinkle in her eye. "Perhaps you enchanted me with an Imperius curse. Hmmm. Yes. That may be a distinct possibility."
Hermione playfully slapped Minerva's arm. "I don't think so!" They laughed, knowing how silly the conversation was.
"Hmm. Perhaps not. But it is true that not many have set foot on my family land."
"Well then, I am honored," Hermione said softly. She smiled, realizing she was doing that entirely too often but unable to stop. Luckily, it seemed Minerva suffered from the same malady.
Sighing in relief, Hermione plopped onto her bed and closed her eyes. She was done. She had just finished her last N.E.W.T. Results would be given to her tomorrow for the last four exams, but so far she had earned all O's, and she expected to receive the same mark for the rest. Even better, on Sunday she would be traveling to McGonagall Manor.
She smiled goofily. Minerva had delivered a port-key to her at the beginning of the week, telling her that she would be leaving for her home on Saturday in order to "spruce things up" before Hermione arrived. It was a vast understatement to say that Hermione was excited. She was extremely curious, too. She wanted to see where Minerva had grown up and where she lived when not at Hogwarts. It was another layer of Minerva's history being revealed to her, and Hermione was keen to learn more about the witch who had so effortlessly captured her heart just by being herself.
She practically vibrated with anticipation. She knew Minerva did not normally invite people to her family home. Although she did not believe Minerva harbored any romantic feelings for her, she clearly cared for Hermione and wanted to spend time with her. She had said as much on several occasions in different ways over the summer. It was enough. It had to be enough.
Harry had insinuated that Minerva must return her feelings if they were vacationing together, but Hermione did not want to assume anything. It would be mortifying if she revealed her feelings, only to find that Minerva cared for her simply as a friend. She would be no better than Ron. She shook her head, wondering at the irony. Yet, Harry was persistent, insisting that Hermione not give up hope. Sighing, Hermione turned on to her side and curled her knees up near her chest. As if she had a choice in the matter. Hope fluttered its little wings every time she saw the woman.
Now that the exams were out of the way, Hermione could concentrate on other forms of academia—becoming an animagus and instructing young minds. Both would be difficult but quite rewarding. Best of all, though, she would be able to continue seeing Minerva. Hermione was a bit nervous, not knowing whether Minerva would want to continue meeting for tea during the week, but even if their friendship was relegated to the background during the school year, at least she would still spend time with her while training and in her capacity as a Hogwarts professor.
Tired, Hermione closed her eyes. Tomorrow she would move into her new rooms. While preparing for her exams, she hadn't had the energy or incentive to do so. But that was tomorrow. Dinner was not for a few hours, and she had stayed up late over the past week reviewing her notes and practicing whenever possible to prepare for her exams. She let her mind wander, not caring to edit her thoughts when they turned toward Minerva. Her smile, her laugh, her eyes—those eyes. They could see right through her, it seemed. She should probably feel mortified, for she doubted Minerva was oblivious to Hermione's feelings. She couldn't find it within her to be embarrassed, though. She would never force the issue, and Minerva seemed to take it in stride.
If anything, Minerva seemed to like the attention. Often their gazes would remain connected. Often they would touch hands, arms, shoulders. And it was not unusual for them to lean against each other while reading in Minerva's living room. Each connection exhilarated Hermione, pushed her into a higher level of awareness. It made her ache for more even as she told herself to be happy with the bond they had formed.
Visualizing emerald eyes stained with emotion and a Scottish burr that purred her name, Hermione easily remembered the feeling of strong arms holding her securely. She groaned into her pillow, fighting her body's response. She could not go down that road. It would make her too uncomfortable while with the bewitching woman. For that reason she never allowed herself to fantasize about kissing the woman, touching the woman more intimately. She simply could not afford to.
Feeling a delicate tongue scratch across her cheek, Hermione's eyes flew open. She was greeted with sparkling green eyes and an inquisitive meow. Smiling, Hermione sat up. She noticed how dark the room was and said, "I must have fallen asleep after exams. Did I miss dinner?"
Watching the animagus transform into Minerva's form, Hermione's eyes widened. She performed the transition so fluidly. It was a wonder to behold. Minerva sat on the edge of Hermione's bed, a mischievous look on her face. "You did. No one had seen you all afternoon, so I took it upon myself to track you down."
"And here I am," Hermione smiled.
"Yes. Here you are," Minerva agreed, placing a hand on Hermione's forearm and rubbing the inside of her wrist with her thumb. "Are you hungry?" she asked softly.
Hermione nodded mutely, overcome by the feelings Minerva's touch was evoking. She watched the older witch's smile become larger.
"I thought you might be. Come with me, please." Minerva slid her hand down to capture Hermione's hand and pulled her up from the bed slowly. They stood close to each other for a moment, eyes connected, before Minerva ran gentle fingers over Hermione's cheek. Hermione held her breath. "You are so precious to me," she whispered. Their eyes remained locked, Hermione fascinated with the emotions she saw floating through shaded green eyes. Before Hermione could gather herself enough to respond, Minerva stepped away, gently pulling her by the hand.
Minerva brought her to the Gryffindor common room where a fire was burning brightly. Laid out on a table before the fireplace was a gorgeous display of food and a chilled bottle of Champagne. Hermione was touched. Her eyes filled up as she turned to Minerva. "I don't know what to say," she began.
"It is not necessary. You have worked hard these last few months, and I wanted to celebrate your accomplishments with you. I am proud of you, Hermione."
"Thank you, Minerva. This means the world to me. You, I—" Hermione just stopped herself from blurting out her love. Instead she pulled Minerva in for a hug. "Thank you," she whispered.
She felt more than heard Minerva's response. "You are most welcome."
Releasing her hold, Hermione sat down on a transfigured, padded high-back chair and eyed the food, realizing just how ravenous she felt. "This looks delicious." She looked up into amused eyes and grinned.
Minerva opened the Champagne and poured the golden liquid into two crystal flutes. She wordlessly passed one to Hermione and held her gaze. "To one of the most intelligent, resourceful, impressive witches I have ever known. It is an honor and a privilege to call you my friend." She lifted up her glass. "To you, Hermione."
"Minerva, those words could easily apply to you. Thank you for allowing me into your world, for spending time with me. To you." Hermione lifted her own glass and saluted before sipping the liquor.
Conversation flowed easily as they enjoyed their food. Hermione felt contentment steal through her as the hours passed by. Eventually Hermione ended up on the sofa watching the fire, curled against Minerva's side as verbal exchanges became intermittent. Hermione finished off her third glass of Champagne, appreciating how relaxed she felt. She was looking forward to vacationing with Minerva, and she could not help but hope they would share more nights like this one.
Closing her eyes, she luxuriated in the feeling of strong fingers combing through her hair. She bit back a moan as Minerva massaged her scalp, not wanting to do anything that might cause the older woman to stop her ministrations. She breathed in deeply, comforted by Minerva's scent—spicy and distinct.
"Well, I believe that settles it then, Hermione," Minerva whispered next to Hermione's ear.
"Hmm?" Hermione questioned.
"You must not be a cat animagus. If you were, I am quite sure you would be purring by now." Hearing the humor lacing her words, Hermione could not hold back her chuckle.
"Does that mean you purr when touched a certain way?" Hermione asked as she turned her head. She realized a bit too late just how close they were—her lips mere inches from Minerva's parted ones. Her eyes flew up to deep green ones, not moving a muscle, not wanting to move away.
"If I give away all my secrets now, what will keep you coming back?" Minerva said in a low voice. Hermione smiled, enchanted.
"I daresay you will never have to worry about that, Minerva. The more I learn about you, the more I want to know. I do not believe I will ever grow bored or that my desire will ever wane," Hermione admitted. "I am more worried that you will find my company wearisome."
"You may rest easy, Hermione. That is as likely as Ronald Weasley becoming the next Minister of Magic." Hermione could not hold back the guffaw that rolled through her.
Hermione turned back and leaned against Minerva, sighing in pleasure. They stayed that way while the castle settled into the night, Minerva's arm now wrapped around Hermione's chest and curled around her shoulder as Hermione hooked her hands upward to rest on it. Minerva's free hand began to ruffle through Hermione's long hair once again, and Hermione closed her eyes to better concentrate on the sensations.
"I will be leaving early tomorrow morning. Feel free to join me any time on Sunday," Minerva said softly.
"Okay. I am looking forward to it," Hermione murmured, feeling heavy and comfortable.
"You should go up to bed," Minerva suggested even as she continued to run her fingers through Hermione's hair.
"Hmm. I don't want to. I feel perfectly content right here," Hermione said. And she did.
"Me too. But your health is important to me. Please humor me, Hermione."
Hermione dropped her head forward in defeat. "All right." She felt Minerva pull her back into her body for a moment in a reverse hug before letting go. Hermione hoisted herself up, then turned to extend her hand to Minerva. They smiled as Minerva rose. "Thank you for tonight, Minerva," Hermione said earnestly.
"It was my pleasure." Leaning forward, Minerva kissed Hermione's cheek. "Rest well. I will see you on Sunday." Hermione nodded wordlessly and watched Minerva take her leave. She raised her hand to her cheek, feeling the area just kissed. Smiling she turned toward her dormitory. She would have sweet dreams tonight.