The Way It Was After

by margaretrevie

Book two of "The Ways of Minerva" series. After their children decided to change their identities, lose their memories, and travel in time, Minerva & Albus have found the new iterations of their children. Albus and Minerva do their best to deal with the cards life dealt them whilst keeping their true identities a secret and fighting in the brewing war with Tom Riddle.

19. Chapter 19

Chapter Nineteen: Autumn 1978

A few months after her parents had passed, Lily found her life to be as good as she could have expected, given the circumstances. She was living at Potter Manor with James and his family. It may not have been Hogwarts, but the mansion was so big it often felt like she was back on the castle grounds.

The size also gave her some much-needed space that she was very grateful to have.

Lily spent her time thinking about her parents, attending Order of the Phoenix meetings, bonding with James, and, to Professor Flitwick's delight, studying with him through owl post. She thought Flitwick was only being so lenient with her because of her relationship with Minerva, but Flitwick had assured her that beginning full-time studies so soon after losing family was unadvised.

Every afternoon, after lunch, Lily took a walk in the Potters' large garden before commencing her daily studies. Usually, James joined her to put some space between him and his parents. Euphemia and Fleamont Potter had been terrified to hear of James' role in the death of Lily's parents. They didn't want him in any more danger, so James had begrudgingly agreed to go on leave with the Auror academy. He was now fully occupied with the Order's strategic missions.

James found he enjoyed walking with Lily. He liked to be around her, and she found his presence soothing, almost like a reminder that something good still existed in her life amidst the death that had recently subsumed her.

"Lily?" James asked as they strolled, their hands intertwined. "How are you feeling?"

"About?"

"About, I don't know, everything?" Lily felt James shrug beside her. "You've had a hard few months."

"I miss my parents, and I still struggle with feeling guilty," Lily said slowly. She considered the question. "I'm happy to still be engaged in my studies, even if it's not how I had originally envisioned. I like that we get to see Remus, Sirius and Peter on a regular basis at Order meetings."

"And Minerva," James teased. He had taken to calling their former professor by her first name after Lily had made the change.

"She's a boon to my soul," Lily admitted. "I don't deny it. She is a constant, and I don't have much of that anymore."

"I know my parents aren't yours," James began, "but they really do love you."

Lily smiled. "Yeah, I know. It was nice of them to take me in. Even if I think they only did it so you wouldn't leave home."

"Well, they knew that, after that attack, I'd follow you anywhere," James said. "We're tied together, Lily."

"Because of our bond?" Her voice was quiet. Both of them knew this was a great source of insecurity for Lily. She didn't want him to stay with her simply because of the bond between them.

"Yes, that does tie us together, but that's not what I meant." James stopped walking and looked at Lily with an intense vulnerability in his eyes. "I meant that you caught my attention on our first day at Hogwarts, and we've been connected ever since. There has always been a connection between us that has nothing to do with our bond, and everything to do with our emotions. The friendship we've created. The love we've created. Our bond may push us to be together, but it can't make me choose you. And I, Lily Evans, choose you."

Lily blushed. "I choose you, James." She shivered as it began to rain. "We should get back inside the house."

"Wait, Lil. What if we decided to choose each other forever?" James released one of her hands and reached it inside the pocket of his jeans. He opened his palm to reveal a ring box.

Lily hesitated. "James, aren't we a little young for this?"

"If you'd choose me, and I would choose you in five years, or ten, or twenty, does it matter if we choose each other now?" James flashed her his tell-me-I'm-wrong look. "Besides, we're in a war. Those next five, ten, twenty years are not guaranteed. Hell, they're not guaranteed without a war, but our chances look a lot worse given the whole political atmosphere we've got going on."

"That actually sounds logical."

"You've been rubbing off on me," James said, grinning. "And you love me, right?"

"You know I do." Lily rolled her eyes. "Goodness, I should have expected this. You have always been rather impulsive."

"So, what do you say, Lily? Want to become Mrs. Potter, Evans?" James asked, grinning at her as the rain bounced off his glasses.

"Yes!" Lily laughed. "Why not?"

"I'm not sure I like that question, but I liked your answer." James jumped and hugged her, twirling her around. "Wait, Lil. I need to put the ring on you."

Lily felt her heartbeat quicken as he slid the ring onto her finger. "James, this is way too nice. I can't accept this."

The ring was stunning. It was Victorian style, Lily thought, with one large rose-cut diamond surrounded by twelve smaller diamonds. She hadn't ever given much thought to one diamond on her finger, let alone thirteen.

"Yes, you can," James whispered. "It was my grandmum's. She gave it to my dad to give to me one day. So I could use it for the love of my life."

"Who am I to say no to such family history?" Lily asked, moving her hand slowly until the ring caught the light. "Wow."

For a fleeting moment, she thought she remembered a simpler ring on her finger, but she knew she definitely had never been engaged before, so she pushed it aside and smiled at James.

"Who do you want to tell?" James looked at her eagerly. "I know we're in the middle of a war, but I'd like to tell at least a few people."

"We should probably start with your parents," Lily said, chuckling. "Then, we can tell the gang—Remus, Sirius, Peter, and Marlene. If you're okay with it, maybe Minerva and Professor Dumbledore?"

"What about Petunia?"

Lily shook her head. "She wouldn't come."

"Do you want to tell any other family?"

"James, you know that I don't have any other family left besides Petunia." Lily sighed heavily.

"No, no, no," James said. "You have my parents and me now."

Lily kissed him, happy—not for the first time—that her fiancé was an optimist.

---

Minerva sat at her desk in her office, sighing as she wrote yet another letter to a parent who wanted to know how safe Hogwarts was for its students during the war. It was frustrating that so many of the students' parents had lost faith in Hogwarts' role as a safe spot for their children, and she didn't enjoy spending so much of her time defending Albus' ability to keep the school protected.

A knock on her door provided her with a welcome excuse to stop writing. "Come in," she called.

"Minerva!" Lily called, grinning.

"Lily, what are you doing here?" Minerva rose and held her arms out. "Shouldn't you be at the Potters?"

"What, hiding?" Lily said teasingly into Minerva's shoulder.

"Waiting for your next mission," Minerva corrected, not unkindly. "You know that you have a target on your back. What is so important that you felt the need to come to Hogwarts?"

"I wanted to talk to Professor Flitwick in person about one of the articles he sent me. Oh, and I have some personal news."

"Oh?" Minerva asked. "What is it?"

"This." Lily stepped back and dangled her left hand in front of Minerva's face. "I wanted you to know."

"Oh, Lily," Minerva breathed. She felt tears spring to her eyes. "Oh, I am so, so happy for you."

"Thank you."

"That ring is really quite something. May I?" Minerva extended her hand. She took Lily's fingers and maneuvered them gently so she could admire the ring. "You're quite the lucky woman."

"It's a family heirloom," Lily said quickly. "I would never have asked James for something so extravagant."

"I didn't say you did," Minerva responded, wearing a slight smile on her lips. "But it is an impressive ring. I believe my Seanmhair Ross had something similar. Many Pureblood families have these types of rings—usually imbued with protective magic, or even fidelity spells."

"I don't know anything about magic." Lily frowned and furrowed her brow. "I'll have to ask James. I hope there isn't a fidelity spell on here. Or anything else, for that matter."

"If there is a spell on it, there's a good chance its power has decreased by now. I can't imagine Mr. and Mrs. Potter would inflict a boundary on their son's marriage."

"I bloody well hope not," Lily muttered.

"You wouldn't give the ring back either way, would you?"

"No. It's not like I'm going to cheat on James."

Minerva and Lily looked at each other for a moment, and then laughed. Before she knew it, Minerva felt her eyes grow wet again.

"I am so very happy for you, Lily," Minerva uttered softly. "Truly. I have always wanted the best for you. Please give my congratulations to James."

"I was hoping you'd want to tell him that in person. Is there a way James and I could have dinner with you before the wedding?" Lily asked hopefully. "I know we'd have to come here, but surely we could eat in your quarters. No one would need to know we were here."

"Nonsense." Minerva wiped her cheeks and made a quick decision. "You and James will come to my home. We can have dinner there."

"Your home?"

"Yes, Lily. I do have a place to live that isn't Hogwarts. I believe I've told you about it."

The two women laughed again.

"Well, I look forward to seeing this house of yours," Lily said, smiling. "I'm presuming it's where you've been hiding every time I received a letter from you that didn't originate from Hogwarts."

"Good, and yes, it is where I tend to hibernate. Owl me with a date and time, and then I'll arrange to bring you and James to the property." Minerva looked at her watch. "I'm so happy you wanted to tell me about your engagement, but we should get you back to the Potters'."

"Fine," Lily said, sighing dramatically. She grinned. "Can you Apparate me back?"

"I'd feel very irresponsible if I didn't escort you back and ensure that you arrived home safely." Minerva Summoned her cloak from her chair and wrapped it around her arms. "Let's go to the grounds, and I'll Side-Along with you."

They walked quickly and silently to the Hogwarts gate. Minerva opened it, but she felt Lily hesitate beside her.

"Lily, what's wrong?"

"Sometimes I get caught up in the what-ifs," Lily whispered. "I'm very happy that James and I are engaged. But a part of me can't help but think it only happened now because of my parents' deaths. If I had been at Hogwarts, like I had planned, and James had still been with the Aurors, I don't think this ring would be on my finger right now."

Minerva sighed. "I understand that more than most. This is the second war I've lived through. I've lost family and friends. I have suffered, but I have also loved. It's very easy to think about what could have been. The challenge, Lily, is to live and focus on what could be."

"That's rather astute, Minerva," Lily laughed lightly. "You make it sound easy."

"That would be because it is far easier to say than it is to do," Minerva remarked. "But you have to try, Lily. Your parents wouldn't want you to throw away your happiness because of a sad event that brought you and James closer."

"You sounded like my Mum just then," Lily muttered. "Thanks, Minerva."

"I'll always be here as a sounding board if you need it," Minerva promised. "Now, let's get you home."

Minerva looped her arm through Lily's, and waited for the tell-tale pull to tell her that Lily was Apparating them to the Potters.

"Ugh, I hate that feeling," Lily groaned when they arrived. "Honestly, they say it grows on you, but it hasn't yet."

"I feel the same way," Minerva responded truthfully. "I've never liked the sensation."

Lily nodded, and hugged Minerva one last time. "Thank you for escorting me back."

"Of course." Minerva jutted her chin in the direction of the Potter gates. "Now, go. Your family will be waiting."

Lily walked a few steps, but then turned back to face Minerva before disappearing on the Potter grounds. "Minerva? To save you the trouble of wondering whether you should invite the man who may or may not be your husband, please invite Professor Dumbledore to the dinner. I'd love to have him there. He can attend as my personal guest." Lily grinned cheekily. "I'm sure you won't object to having him in your home."

Minerva rolled her eyes, but her growing grin betrayed her. "I will ensure he's there. In fact, I'm sure you can expect a letter from him once I tell him about your news. He's rather fond of you, you know."

Lily blushed. "That's kind of you to say, but I think he just likes me because you like me."

Minerva laughed gently. "He likes you for your own sake. Trust me."

"If you say so." Lily shrugged, waved goodbye, and then disappeared beyond the Potters' property line.

Sighing happily, Minerva Apparated back to Hogwarts and transformed into her Animagus form, running stealthily through the halls while everyone else was at dinner. Once she arrived at her quarters, she changed back, and had Jilly bring her up some food of her own.

After she had finished eating and was curled under a blanket with a book, Minerva looked up at Albus when he finally entered their living room. "There you are!"

"I should be saying that to you," Albus chuckled. "Seeing as I had no idea why you weren't at dinner or where you were instead."

Minerva winced. "Oh, Al, I didn't think. I'm sorry to have worried you."

"You didn't worry me, my dear," Albus said, sitting beside her. "I could feel your excitement in my stomach. If I had felt anything worrying, I would have come after you." He looked at her expectedly. "So, what has you so excited?"

She grinned. "Lily came to visit me."

Albus raised his eyebrows. "She shouldn't have left the Potters'."

"I know, I know, I told her that," Minerva said. "But, Al—she's engaged. James proposed!"

"Really?" Albus grasped one of her hands.

"Yes!"

"You're a great deal more excited now than you were the first time," he replied, amused.

"This time, there's not a baby on the way, and they're not still in school," Minerva said, tilting her head. "This seems much less rushed. I know they're still young, but I feel good about this. She was so excited, Al! Oh, and Lily and James want to come to dinner before the wedding. I told them I'd host them at the Manor."

"What excuse will you give for my presence?"

"Lily invited you," Minerva laughed. "She didn't want to put me in the awkward position of evicting my husband for the night, so she said that you could come."

"My daughter is too cheeky for her own good," Albus grumbled, but he was smiling. "This really is wonderful news."

"I think so, too." Minerva rested her head against his shoulder. "I think it will be a bright spot in this otherwise dreary, war-filled world we inhabit."

"Mhhhm." He kissed her forehead before asking, "Min, should we tell Poppy and Ro? We know they'll keep the secret; that's not a concern of mine."

"You want to tell them without getting our children's permission?"

Albus sighed. "What our children don't know can't hurt them. Besides, Ro and Poppy love them as we do, and we shouldn't keep this from them."

In moments like these, Minerva realized how much more emotionally capable her husband had become. Albus liked a black-and-white sort of logic—he liked puzzles that fit together perfectly—but he had only recently learned that navigating emotions required a lot more ambiguity.

"Why don't you Floo call them?" Minerva asked. "We might as well tell them now. There's no point in waiting."

"All right," Albus said. He slipped his arm out from around her shoulders and headed to the fireplace. Minerva waited on the couch, and before long, she was joined by Albus, Ro, and Poppy.

"What's this about?" Poppy asked expectantly. "You don't normally summon us without warning unless there's bad news."

"We do have news, but I don't think it's bad," Minerva said. "Tell them, Albus."

"Please keep this to yourselves, but today Minerva was informed that Lily and James are engaged to be married," Albus declared. He wore a broad grin on his face.

"That is news indeed," Poppy agreed, smiling. "I bet you're happy that they waited a bit longer to get married this time. They're not as young as they were their first go-around."

"And you know what? If they decide to time travel again, they may actually make it out of their teenage years before they get married!" Ro said, laughing.

"I sincerely hope they don't time travel again, thank you very much," Minerva grumbled.

Ro simply stared at her friend. "What's the consensus—are we happy about this? We wanted them to be back together, and they are."

"We are happy," Minerva confirmed. "I'm so pleased for them both."

"Lily needs some cheer in her life," Albus said. "After everything she's been through lately, she deserves her own happiness."

Minerva and Poppy exchanged knowing glances.

"Will you two be going to the wedding?" Ro asked.

"I'm not sure we're invited," Minerva said slowly. "If they invite us, we'll go."

"But we will have them over for dinner," Albus interjected.

"What, in your shared quarters?" Poppy exclaimed.

"No, at the Manor."

"You're bringing them home?" Ro looked at Minerva as though she had lost her mind. "This seems dangerous."

"How?" Minerva scoffed. "The Manor might be the best-protected property in the country. Between my ancestral wards and the combined forces of Albus and I casting protective enchantments, there is no safer place."

"I didn't mean dangerous in the mortal sense. I mean dangerous in the memory sense. What if being home triggers some loose memory in their minds?" Ro asked.

Minerva sighed. "Ro, we have no reason to suspect that will happen. I'm not going to live my life making assumptions. Besides, our children decided to travel through time. If they eventually are assaulted with memories and are confused about their lives, I will, of course, help them, but I will not blame myself. All I'm doing is indulging Al's daughter in wanting to have a meal with us before she gets married."

Ro seemed to accept the explanation, but finally said, "I'm just trying to protect you, you know. Provide an alternative view—one that may be blinded by your emotions."

"And while I respect that, Ro, I can't imagine that one evening at the Manor would spark something in their memories that seven years at Hogwarts did not."

"I hope you're right." Ro raised her hands in defeat. "You usually are."

"Oh, Ro," Pops said exasperatedly. "Give it a rest, all right? Let us all be happy."

"Hey, I don't want anyone to be unhappy," Ro snapped. "I just know that time travel is dangerous. I did more work with the Unspeakables than any of you. Hogwarts may not be enough to evoke tampered memories, but going home to the Manor could. Am I the only one who remembers we're at war?"

With that, Ro stalked off and disappeared out the door.

"What the hell was that about?" Minerva asked wondrously. "I've never seen her like that, and I've known her my entire life."

"Ro has been having a hard time since her close call with the Order," Poppy admitted quietly. "It was traumatic, and reminded her of the first war, when, well..."

"When she had to alter her entire life and identity to stay alive," Albus finished. "I can imagine that, for Ro, this war is harder to go through than for most others. She faced unimaginable difficulties."

"War brings up uncomfortable memories for all of us," Poppy replied sadly. "Ro was managing, but since her stomach injury, she hasn't been sleeping well. Her mood has been shorter, and she cries more." Poppy sighed. "Ro is also extremely worried about those she loves. She's not the best at expressing that, so the end result is—"

"What we just saw," Minerva whispered. "You should go to her, Poppy. Tell her we love her."

"If there's anything we can do for her, please, let us know," Albus added. "It's my fault the second injury happened. I want to aid in any way I can."

"It wasn't your fault," Poppy and Minerva said at the same time.

"It wasn't," Poppy assured him again. "This war is Riddle's fault, and it will only end because of the brave acts of those willing to stand up to him. Unfortunately, that will require sacrifices. All we can do is try to minimize the damage."

"That's the wisest thing you've ever said," Minerva said, smiling. "Go to Ro."

"I will." Poppy stood and headed to the fireplace. She took a handful of Floo Powder and turned around. "I am so pleased to hear about James and Lily. That's such wonderful news. It's hopeful, too. The idea that some of us are destined to be together—some loves are so strong that even time and lost memories can't separate us."

Albus placed his hand on Minerva's shoulder and gave it a gentle squeeze. "Poppy makes a lovely point. I'm happy to think our children have that type of love."

"It is a nice thought. But you know, Albus, we have that kind of love, too."

Albus grinned widely before leaning down to kiss her.

---

Minerva nervously looked around the Manor's dining room. "Do you think it looks all right?"

"Min, it looks lovely," Albus said. "The house is clean, the fireplace is warm, and the food smells delicious. Stop fretting. Lily and James will be impressed with the Manor." Albus tilted his head. "Well, for James it will be familiar, given the size of his own family home."

Minerva rolled her eyes. Three weeks had passed since Lily had told her of her engagement to James. Tonight, the young couple would be going to the Manor for the dinner Lily had wanted.

And the thought was making Minerva nervous.

"Don't be so anxious," Albus whispered. He hugged her from behind. "Come on. Let's Apparate to the Potters. Did you take that stomach soother Poppy gave you?"

Minerva smiled. "Yes, I did."

Minerva always felt rather sick when Apparating, especially with Albus. The doubled sensation seemed to upset her stomach, no matter what. Minerva had asked Poppy for help so that she wouldn't be sick all over their children.

She wanted this evening to go perfectly, and that meant avoiding illness where possible.

"Then, off to the grounds we go." Albus checked his pocket watch. "We're on an express timeline."

"I know," Minerva replied. She extracted herself from his grip and took his hand, leading him out to the front yard. "Hold on."

They arrived just outside the Potters' property boundary—exactly where Lily had taken Minerva.

Almost immediately, Lily and James appeared in front of them.

"Hi!" Lily exclaimed. She rushed towards Minerva and hugged her. "I'm so happy to see you."

"We're happy to see you," Minerva laughed, "but we must get home quickly."

"Indeed. It does not do to dwell outside in times like these." Albus offered his arm to James. "Mr. Potter, I'll be Apparating with you."

"You can call me James, Professor," James chuckled.

"Then call me Albus," Albus said, and in a flash, they were off.

"Come on, Lily," Minerva urged. "We need to go."

Lily nodded and clutched Minerva's arm. Minerva braced herself, and then Apparated them to the Manor.

"Are you all right?" Minerva whispered to Lily as they arrived.

"Fine." Lily grimaced. She looked up at the house. "Woah, Minerva, this is where you live?"

"When I'm not at Hogwarts, yes," Minerva said, laughing. "Come on. Let's go inside."

"Oooh, I love the garden," Lily observed. She called ahead, "James, I really like these flowers."

"If you get their names from Minerva, we can plant some at our new home!" James yelled back.

"New home?" Minerva inquired. She looked at Lily. "You're moving?"

"Yeah," Lily said excitedly. "I thought it would be a good idea for us to start our married life alone, and in a smaller house. One that doesn't carry so much weight or expectations." She leaned in closer to Minerva. "Besides, his mother was really starting to get on my nerves."

Minerva laughed heartily. "I couldn't imagine living with in-laws. Or anyone while first married, for that matter."

"I knew you were married," Lily sang. She beamed at Albus as he held the door open for them. "Thanks, Professor McGonagall."

Albus' mouth opened comically. "I'm sorry?"

"Now, that has never happened before," Minerva chuckled. "Should we start calling you Headmaster McGonagall, Albus?"

"We could, but that would rather undermine the secrecy of our marriage, wouldn't it?" Albus sighed. "It appears the jig is up, my dear."

Minerva kissed Albus' cheek, which was still flushed after Lily's comment. "Ah, that it does."

"It's so sweet to see you two together," Lily sighed. "Isn't it, James?"

"Honestly, I'm a bit uncomfortable, but uhh, congratulations, Professors. We won't tell anyone," James added hastily as Minerva and Albus laughed. He ran his hand through his hair. "So, whose house is this then?"

"James, they could have bought it together!"

"No, Lil, this is a Pureblood house. Like mine," James explained. "But I've never heard of either a Dumbledore or a McGonagall Manor."

"It's my family house," Minerva said. She led them to the library. "It was Ross Manor, James. It was my maternal grandparents' house. They decided to gift it to my mother and rename it McGonagall Manor when my father discovered he had married a witch. I believe my grandparents told everyone they sold it off to Muggles."

"That's smart," James murmured appreciatively. "That way, Purebloods wouldn't go looking for the place anymore, and your family would be safe. Especially if they placed protective spells all over the property."

Minerva beamed. "Quite right, James. Quite right."

"You have a hell of a library here, Professor." James whistled. "You know me—I'm not much for reading—but I'm sure there's something in here that would catch my eye."

"James, you're in our house. Please, call us Minerva and Albus."

"That'll take some getting used to," James muttered. He sat and helped himself to a Ginger Newt. "These are my favourite biscuits."

"They're my favourite, too," Minerva admitted. She felt Albus squeeze her hand as he sat beside her.

"Do you like them, too, Albus?" Lily asked. She took a bite of her own biscuit. "I like them, but not nearly as much as James."

"I much prefer sweets," Albus said. "Like Sherbet Lemons."

"He prefers sugar," Minerva corrected. "Honestly, he's always snacking on something that's just pure sugar."

"Are you saying your Ginger Newts don't have sugar in them?"

"No, Al. I'm saying that, at the very least, you can dunk Ginger Newts in your tea," Minerva replied, doing just that. "They're not pure sugar."

"You mentioned outside that you have a new home." Albus looked at the young couple over the top of his spectacles. "Where are you moving, if I may ask?"

"Godric's Hollow," James said. "It's near Potter Manor, but it's..."

"Not Potter Manor," Lily finished. She looked at Minerva with a wry grin. "No in-laws. Perhaps the same village, but not in the same house."

"Hey, what's wrong with my parents?" James joked.

"Do I need to remind you of what happened the first time I stayed there?" Lily barked. "Because that was uncomfortable, and I don't want to deal with that after marriage, especially if your parents are asking for grandchildren."

Albus choked on his Sherbet Lemon.

"Oh, sorry, Albus," Lily apologized. "You probably don't want to hear about that."

"Normally, I'd say I would be happy to hear about anything you want to confide in us." Albus swallowed roughly. "But in this instance, I would rather not hear about it."

Minerva looked at Lily with a wicked grin and a wink. "If you ever need to confide in me, dear, I am here."

"Thanks, Minerva," Lily said, laughing. "I appreciate that."

"Oh, Merlin," James moaned. "This got weird fast. Albus, sir, how about you show me what's for dinner?"

Minerva and Lily laughed as the men left the library, presumably in the direction of the kitchen.

"Tell me about your new house," Minerva encouraged Lily. "I would like to hear all about it."

"It's small, but I think it's cozy. It suits me more than something like this," Lily said, chuckling. "It has three bedrooms. One for us, one for guests, and one for..."

Minerva raised her eyebrow as Lily trailed off. "A baby?"

"Yeah, eventually," Lily muttered. "Not now."

"I know from experience that you can't time these things," Minerva laughed lightly. She quickly bit her lip as she realized what she said.

"Minerva, do you and Albus have a child?" Lily asked quietly.

"No, we don't. I don't know why I said that, really."

"I don't quite believe you," Lily replied carefully, "but I respect your decision not to tell me either way. I will say that I think you would be a wonderful mother—you have been a good mother to me, even if you don't have your own child."

Minerva felt tears wet her eyes. "You have no idea how much that means to me."

"Oh, Minerva!" Lily jumped up from her seat and sat beside her former professor. "Don't get upset."

"I'm not upset," Minerva fibbed. "I'm simply emotional."

"Emotional could mean upset," Lily scoffed. "You don't need to hide it from me."

"I'm very excited for you, Lily," Minerva whispered. "I am so excited to see the things you will do and the places you will go."

"Well, we won't be going anywhere for a long while, seeing as there's a war going on," Lily said, rolling her eyes. "Come on, let's go eat."

Minerva allowed Lily to help her from the couch, and then they reunited with the men in the dining room, where they had set the table.

Over their dinner, Albus returned to the subject of Lily and James' new home. "When are you moving in?"

"A few days before the wedding," James said. "We would like to feel somewhat situated before we're actually supposed to spend the rest of our lives there."

"A smart decision," Minerva approved. "You'll want to get as much done before the wedding. That way, you can simply relax on the day. I can't wait to hear all about it."

"You'll come to the wedding, won't you?" Lily asked anxiously. "It will be a small wedding—I mean, there's a war going on, and you can't be too careful, plus Petunia never responded to the letter I wrote telling her I was engaged..."

James squeezed his fiancée's hand and finished for her. "It will be a small affair, but it would mean a lot to Lily and me if you both would attend. It'll just be my parents, Sirius, Remus, Peter, and Marlene. We could tell everyone Lily wanted you there, Minerva, and that she asked you to bring Albus along so you wouldn't be too lonely. You know, so no one figures out the whole married thing."

"That's very kind. Thank you," Albus said. "When and where will the wedding take place? I don't believe we've actually covered that yet."

"It will be at Potter Manor since we know it's safe," James replied quickly. "As for the when, well, we were thinking about the end of October. It's only a few weeks away, but it's not like we have a big party to plan. Mum and the elves are handling the food and decorations. All we really need to do now is find someone who can oversee the wedding."

"You mean find a person to actually marry us?" Lily asked. "Yeah, that's rather a big deal, James."

"Albus can do it," Minerva offered. "He's licensed by the Ministry."

Albus flashed her a look as if to say what are you doing, but he said aloud, "Yes, I am. I have been for quite some time."

"That would honestly be perfect," Lily confessed. "We already know you, so it wouldn't be nearly as awkward as some random Ministry official." She frowned. "Especially as we have no idea which Ministry officials are under Voldemort's control."

"And it gives Albus a very plausible excuse to be at the wedding!" James chimed in. "Sirius might still make a comment about you two—he's always had a bit of a thing for you, Minerva—but he won't have any reason to actually believe it."

Albus chortled as Minerva blushed. "Oh, Min, a student has a crush on you!"

"You wouldn't know it by looking at his marks," Minerva said decisively. "He was talented at Transfiguration, but his effort was terrible."

James roared with laughter. "The sad thing is he actually did put effort into your class."

"Oh, pity you couldn't tell," Minerva said neutrally, ignoring James' continued snickers. "Let's talk about something more fun. Such as, what would you two like as a wedding present?"

"Minerva, you don't have to get us anything," Lily replied quickly. "Honestly. It means enough that you're willing to come to the wedding."

"Minerva and I would be more than happy to help with defensive measures on your new home," Albus offered. "I can appreciate that you want to leave your parents' house as you begin your married life, but I would like to ensure that your new abode is as safe as possible."

"That seems like a lot to give when you're willing to officiate our wedding," James stated. "Really, I'd feel bad taking you up on that offer when you're essentially agreeing to work the day of the wedding."

"Nonsense." Albus leaned forward. "It would mean a great deal to me—to us—to ensure you're well-protected. It would be no skin off your backs. You could think of it as us protecting members of the Order."

"Molly and Arthur agreed," Minerva added helpfully. "Why don't you let us come over on one of the days when you're getting settled in? That way, you'll know it's protected when you're all-set to officially move."

Lily and James exchanged bemused looks. "If you're insisting," Lily said slowly, "then that would be very much appreciated. Thank you."

"It's our pleasure," Albus replied, and he meant it.

Later that night, after they had safely escorted James and Lily home to Potter Manor, Albus and Minerva were sitting quietly in bed with cups of tea.

"That was a wonderful dinner," Minerva murmured against Albus' shoulder. "They grew up into wonderful people."

"They did the first time," Albus chuckled. "It stands to reason that they would again."

She swatted his chest. "Yes, but you never know, do you, Al? You have to wait for something to happen to know for sure how it will turn out."

"James was touch and go there for a few years," Albus admitted. "But they've done well."

"They have." Minerva snuggled herself more tightly under his chin. "Al?"

"Mhhhm?"

"How do you feel about the children living in Godric's Hollow?"

Minerva knew that asking the question was most likely not one that Albus wanted to answer, but she had to ask it anyway.

Godric's Hollow was a place full of complex emotions for Albus. It was where he had lived with his family, already broken by scandal. It was the birthplace of his love for and friendship with Gellert Grindelwald. It was where the rift between Albus and Aberforth had become irreparable, and it was where Albus had lost his sister.

He hadn't set foot in Godric's Hollow until Iolanthe's wedding decades later.

"I don't love the idea of it," Albus answered slowly. "Regardless, they were going to be in the area if they had stayed with the Potters."

"Yes, but now they're choosing to stay in the area. They are making it their home, as a couple."

"It gives them a chance to have the fresh start they want. I respect that and hope that, if they ever invite us there, I will be able to make my own fresh start."

Minerva smiled softly, and let it rest.

---

The wedding of James and Lily Potter was a quiet but elegant affair. To Minerva's happy surprise, Remus Lupin had walked Lily down the aisle. It was a fitting choice, she thought. Sirius Black and Marlene McKinnon had been the best man and the maid of honour, respectively, and Minerva could only presume it would be a short time before they were married as well.

Albus had presided over the ceremony as perfectly as Minerva had known he would. His speech had been short but sweet, humourous but not overly gimmicky, and most importantly, Minerva knew their children loved it.

When Lily and James were dancing on the makeshift dance floor in the garden, Minerva took the opportunity to sneak away and sit near the refreshment table. This was a happy day, but it also made her sad for the life she could have had.

Having managed to avoid the Potters thus far, Minerva was surprised when Mrs. Potter appeared before her to collect a goblet of pumpkin juice.

"Hi, I'm Euphemia Potter," James' adoptive mother said, sitting beside Minerva with a groan. "I don't believe we've ever met. Not officially, anyway. I meant to say hello before the ceremony, but you can imagine how busy I was, being the mother of the groom."

Minerva felt a feeling of envy run through her. She knew it wasn't Euphemia's fault she was raising Minerva's son, but faced with the woman who had replaced her as his mother, Minerva felt an overwhelming sense of loss and self-doubt.

"No, I don't believe we have met," Minerva said truthfully. She believed Euphemia was older than herself, having just finished Hogwarts before Minerva started her first year. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"I'm glad James has two teachers who liked him enough to come to his wedding," Euphemia divulged, laughing. "We always knew he was a troublemaker. We didn't know how his professors would react to his mischief."

"He was a bit of a troublemaker," Minerva admitted, "but he sorted himself out in the end."

"Thanks to Lily, I shouldn't wonder," Euphemia replied. She nodded toward the dance floor, where the new couple was still dancing happily. "Without her influence, I doubt he would have been so encouraged to change."

"It's funny what love makes us do," Minerva said.

"It is." Euphemia sighed. "Fleamont and I had an arranged marriage—like every other Pureblooded child of our age—but we were fortunate to love each other despite the contract. We decided very early in our marriage that our children would be free to marry whomever they wanted. We didn't want them to fear our reactions if they were to love someone to whom they weren't betrothed."

"That's very kind of you. There are many Pureblooded parents who can't say the same." Minerva thought of her students from the Malfoy and Lestrange families—all children who, for better or worse, couldn't choose their spouse.

"Of course, Fleamont and I never could have imagined how long it would take us to have a child. Looking back, I think we spoiled James. He is our only child, and after many years of wanting..." Euphemia trailed off. "We never wanted to make him feel less than special. I suppose we let that blind us."

Minerva said nothing, content to sip her drink. She didn't trust herself to comment on how this woman had raised her son.

"I hope we've done right by him," Euphemia continued. "It's a strange thing, Professor, to watch your child grow and become their own person. You realize you never had any control over them, not really. You simply did what you could to nurture them the best way possible."

"That's all any of us can do in any of our relationships," Minerva said quietly. She felt dangerously close to tears. Focusing on her bond with Albus, she poured her heartbreak into it and hoped he would understand what she needed him to feel.

"Oh, of course!" Euphemia exclaimed. "We all do the best we can for everyone in our lives, but children, well, there's something special about that bond. I'm sure you must have noticed it at Hogwarts. You see so many children."

"That I do."

"Do you have any of your own?"

The question was asked kindly, but Minerva wanted to respond bitterly with, Yes. The one you think is yours.

Instead, she simply said, "No, I've not been that lucky, I'm afraid."

"I'm sure you get more than your fair share of parenting whilst looking after all of the students," Euphemia laughed. "You're probably more of a parent to our children than we are!"

Luckily for Minerva, Albus came swooping in. His eyes peered at her, but Minerva knew she alone would be able to detect the concern he held within them. "Minerva, it is best if we take off now. We can't get back to Hogwarts too late, after all."

"Thank you for hosting us, Euphemia," Minerva said, rising from her seat. "Please thank your husband for us as well."

"Of course, of course." Euphemia waved her hand. "It was our pleasure."

Minerva nodded and accepted Albus' arm as they headed to Lily and James, who were now sitting and eating cake.

"You're not leaving already, are you?" Lily asked, looking crestfallen. "But the party has only just started!"

"We need to get back to Hogwarts," Minerva responded gently. "Thank you very much for inviting us. It was wonderful to be a part of your special day. Do me a favour and owl soon, won't you?"

"You'll see us at the Order meeting tomorrow." Lily frowned. "Has something changed?

"Yes. We've decided to give you two a honeymoon of sorts." Albus smiled. "Take a few weeks off from your Order duties. Enjoy your time together as newlyweds. You shouldn't have to worry about imminent danger, not during such a happy time for you both."

"Woah. Thanks, Albus. That's really appreciated." James stood and shook Albus' hand before looking at Minerva. "Is it awkward if I hug you, Minerva?"

Minerva blinked her eyes to stop herself from sobbing. "No, of course not. Come here."

She hugged her son tightly, only releasing him when Albus coughed gently.

"My turn." Lily grinned and wrapped her arms around Minerva. "Thanks, Min. For everything."

"My pleasure."

"And you, Albus," Lily said, turning from Minerva to hug Albus, "thank you for officiating. You did a great job. It wasn't nearly as embarrassing as I thought it would be."

Albus patted Lily's shoulder. "I would never want to embarrass you, Lily. Especially not on your wedding day."

"Right." Lily looked between them both anxiously. "You'll come to visit, won't you?"

"Of course." Minerva squeezed her hand. "We really should be going, though. It isn't fair of us to encroach on Filius' good nature. He took over the wards so we could both be here tonight."

"I hope he's not angry that I didn't invite him!" Lily exclaimed. "Oh, no."

Minerva laughed. "He doesn't know the exact reason we left. Don't fret."

With that, Minerva and Albus left the Potter grounds, and made their way up to Hogwarts. Their walk was silent, and by the time they reached their quarters, Albus asked the question he had been holding on to since they had left.

"What happened while you were talking with Euphemia?"

Minerva exhaled slowly and sat down on their bed. "Nothing malevolent, certainly. She was simply telling me about parenting James."

"Ah." He looked at her and waited for her to continue.

"I suppose it's one thing to know, distantly, that he was raised by other people. Before tonight, they were faceless. 'Mr. and Mrs. Potter.' I could handle that. But tonight, I was confronted with my loss, Albus. I may have regained my son, but I still lost the opportunity to be his mother. I've never had to give that thought much credence until now."

"Oh, my dear Tabby," Albus whispered. "I'm so sorry."

"It's not your fault," Minerva muttered, waving her hand. "I'm the one that has avoided it since we discovered James' identity."

"What can I do?"

"You can settle into bed, and you can hold me."

Albus nodded and quietly obeyed. And when he heard her sniffle into his chest, he tightened his arms around her, wishing he could take all of her hurt away.