Summary: AU. No Magic. When 58 year old Minerva McGonagall finally admits she needs a hand with her small book shop she hires, 33 year old, newly divorced, Hermione Granger. Both content in their lives neither are looking for a relationship but magic may still be lying in the books for them yet. HG&MM

Authors note: Alright, so I'm not entirely sure how well this will go. I tried to tell it in small moments over the course of months. I don't believe it shall be too long, a couple of chapters perhaps. I haven't written anything for a terribly long time and every time I've tried I've given up.

However, this idea gave me hope, so I hope you all enjoy it and it would be fantastic to hear your thoughts.

One more last tidbit, This is un-baeted so any mistakes are my own. I have read over it briefly but, I always tend to miss things and my grammar isn't great!

Part 1

The doorbell gave a small ding as the shop door opened and closed. The dark haired brunette looked over the rim of her glasses as she took in the slender form of the new assistant she had just hired with a stern gaze.

She was prompt, early even, she had to give her that. It had been near to two weeks since the woman had started her first shift and Minerva had to admit the woman seemed competent enough, intelligent even.

Hermione sighed and leant against the door for a moment as she let the warmth rush over her chilled skin from the cold rain and wind she had just walked through. Hermione looked down at her dripping brolly with a small grimace at the pool it was making.

"Good Morning Miss Granger" came the soft Scottish lilt.

Hermione looked up sharply at the woman still reading her book, her glasses perched on the end of her nose.

"Good Morning Miss McGonagall"

"You can put it in the back to dry off along with your coat and scarf" Gesturing to the dripping brolly "Tea?"

"Thank you, and yes please, a little milk and no sugar" Unsure to whether her boss had remembered how she liked her tea yet.

Minerva nodded and Hermione followed her into the back for a moment, shedding her coat and scarf and placing them to dry with her umbrella.

"What would you like me to do this morning?" Hermione asked as she took her tea from the elder woman with a warm smile.

"If you could start in the children's section and make sure everything is in the right genres and order. We have some new books coming in later that I would like putting on display and we will have to redo some of the labels"

"No problem I'll go get started now" she smiled "Is it alright if I take my tea with me?"

Minerva didn't say anything, just nodded.

Hermione walked back out front and made her way to the back of the shop. At first glance the shopped seemed small but the cosy quaint building was filled with small alcoves and was long in length.

Miss McGonagall was a quiet woman and mostly kept to herself which Hermione didn't mind. It gave her time to think over things and gave her a calm peaceful sense of serenity she didn't always find when running after her two rascal children at home. At ages 4 and 7 Rose and Hugo barley gave her a moment's peace.

The divorce hadn't exactly gone smoothly either so to find a job where she didn't have to endure screaming voices was a pleasant relief.

When the elder woman did indulge a few words with her though, Hermione found the woman to be quite witty. It was a pleasant change of pace after such a tiring year to simply talk about literature and how one liked their tea, or how to display certain books.

The shop wasn't that busy that day with the constant rain and Hermione simply continued with her tidying .The hours went by as customers came in needing a hand here and there. Hermione sorted most of the books and swapped with Minerva a couple of times to watch the till.

"Miss Granger, would you be kind enough to help me unload some of these books?"

Hermione placed a book back to its originals place and wandered over to her slender boss. Hermione didn't know the woman's age but she had to say she couldn't be more than 45 maybe 50 at least. Her body seemed to be in great shape. She had one of those body's that you envied as you got older, it held some weight but she was far from fat and Hermione hoped when she was older she would look half as good.

Taking a few books out of the box on the counter she looked at Miss McGonagall "Where did you want me to put them?"

"I was thinking on the table next to the door?"

Hermione nodded and Minerva followed with a few books of her own.

"Have two piles and have them about five high I should think. I shall place some in the window"

"No problem" Hermione replied as she set about her task. Out of the corner of her eye Hermione watched as her boss tripped slightly on the way back to her and had to stifle a small chuckle. The woman was graceful and elegant she would give her that but it amazed her how many clumsy moments she had too.

"Don't think that because my eyes are old that I can't see you chuckling over there" Minerva said with jest in her voice.

Hermione rolled her eyes and clucked her tongue as a smile curved her lips "Firstly, I don't know what you are talking about…" she smirked "And secondly, you are far from old Miss McGonagall"

Minerva waved the younger woman away "Ha, Your eyes must be worse than mine if you think that's true"

"Oh come now, you mustn't be more than 45 perhaps 50" Hermione said seriously.

Minerva looked up at her, lifting an eyebrow "Now you really are being generous with your compliments. That, or you are blinder than I first thought. Do you wear glasses Miss Granger, if so perhaps another prescription might be in order?"

Hermione tapped her lightly on the shoulder with a book "I'm being quite serious"

"So was I dear" Minerva quipped as she placed her glasses on her nose to look at more of the new books they had been sent.

Hermione smiled as she looked at her bosses features more closely. She couldn't deny that lines adorned Minerva's features, but they weren't deep and unflattering. They were the kind that spoke of happiness.

"May I ask how old you are?"

"One should never ask a lady her age"

"I know. That's why I'm asking if I may ask?"

Minerva pursed her lips and looked over the beautiful features of Miss Granger. The woman was beautiful no doubt, her eyes brown and drowning and her face held a youthfulness to it that she knew would never grow old. Yet the woman seemed to carry an air that seemed not to care about her beauty so much, it was her knowledge that seemed more important to her and Minerva admired that quality greatly.

"I am 58, I shall be 59 in a month or so" Minerva confided, watching Hermione's face contort with curiosity.

"Seriously?"

Minerva smirked and nodded.

Hermione had just about closed her mouth when she looked back at the woman again. "Hmm" murmured as she absorbed the information given to her.

The two women carried on in silence and when 4 o'clock came Minerva looked over to the oblivious brunette.

"Hermione?"

The woman spun around to look at her.

"It is 4 o'clock, you may go"

Hermione looked up at the clock on the wall and jumped into action knowing her children would be finishing their extra activities at school at 4.30.

Grabbing her things from the back she wondered back over to the till where Minerva was stood "Before I go I just wanted to check if it was still alright for me to finish at 3 tomorrow instead?"

Minerva nodded "That's fine, your children come first" she said kindly.

"Thank you, have a nice evening"

"And you Miss Granger"

The doorbell chimed and closed, Minerva watching the young woman dash out into the rain before returning her piercing green eyes back to her book.

-The Book Shop-

The next day…

Early the next morning Minerva was wondering about her shop, cup of tea in hand, reading a book as per usual when Hermione bustled through the door.

"Good Morning Miss McGonagall" she called happily as the door closed behind her.

One perfect eyebrow rose as those glasses, perched upon a perfect nose, looked at her with curiosity.

"Good Morning Miss Granger. You're awfully chipper this morning. No London traffic?" she quipped knowing that really would be the day when hell froze over.

Hermione smiled at her wryly "I take the underground"

Swivelling on her small heel, Minerva looked at her fully "Then no ignorant Londoners practically pushing you against the nearest wall to get to their train on time because they were too idle to get up at a reasonable time?"

Shedding her coat Hermione ran a hand through her hair with a smile "Near enough"

"There's still hot tea left in the pot I made earlier if you would like a cup" Minerva called as Hermione went into the back to hang up her things as usual.

A few pages of Minerva's book later Hermione appeared back in front of her "You're earlier than usual this morning, it's not even half 8 yet" Minerva murmured quietly as she watched as the other woman sighed at her first few sips of tea. Where would one be without tea she thought wryly?

"The children had early morning swimming" she said as Minerva nodded before returning her eyes to her book.

"Do you not ever sit down while reading?" Hermione enquired, noticing how the woman, a book always in hand but never sat down.

Minerva smiled as she looked over the rim of her glasses and into those brown orbs "I do, but at my age I know if I sit down for too long in the day I shall never get back up"

Hermione rolled her eyes "You aren't old"

"I never said I was" the woman smirked, her voice low and teasing "My bones just aren't as young as they used to be" she said as she walked over to the till and checked she had enough change.

"Touché'" Hermione conceded as she followed the dark haired woman over to the till.

Leaning on the desk Hermione allowed herself to just watch the woman for a moment. It wasn't often she had the chance to simply watch people nowadays but when she could, she did. She was indeed a people watcher. She loved to watch the way people moved or interacted with others around them. Even as girl she had watched people. It was a very interesting thing to do and through the years she had learnt to become very observant.

"You are staring, dear" Minerva murmured quietly as she went over the list of things that needed doing that day.

"Sorry, I'm a people watcher"

A small smile curled the edge of Minerva's lips as she glanced at Hermione. "Indeed"

"So, what needs doing?" Hermione enquired before taking another sip of tea.

"I have some paper work I need to finish so I shall probably be in the back for a while. We did most of the stock yesterday so if you could just make sure all the books are in order and tidy and keep an eye on the till that would be grand"

Hermione nodded as she continued to drink her hot beverage with sheer pleasure "I don't think there is anything like a cup of tea in the morning" the younger woman confessed.

"I quite agree" Minerva smirked while taking a sip of her own drink.

"Strangely I never liked it until I had my first child. However, when I was first pregnant, with rose, I suddenly had a massive craving for it and ever since I can't stop drinking it"

"Really?" Minerva looked at her "I've drank it ever since I could remember. My grandmother used to give a small cup saying that I was perhaps a little too young for tea yet but In the end I would end up drinking it at least as much as her, if not more" Minerva smiled.

Hermione chuckled imagining a small stubborn Scottish little girl with her own tea cup.

"I imagine you were quite the child"

"Oh Aye, and a Scottish temper to boot"

Chuckling again Hermione stood up and finished her drink watching as Minerva drained the last of hers too. Passing Hermione the cup, the younger woman took them into the back and clean them up quickly. Going back into the shop she checked the time 8.55am.

"Shall I turn the open sign?"

Looking up briefly from her papers Minerva nodded "If you could, Thank you"

Minerva watched as Hermione flipped the sign and went about making sure the books were tidy, shuffling things here and there. Despite Minerva's first adversities she had to admit that having someone to help around the shop not only made her life easier but she also quite enjoyed the company.

Their conversations weren't heavy or steep but in fact, at times, quite frivolous but she liked it.

The young woman was refreshing.

"Miss Granger? I'm going to go finish these, I shan't be too long, half an hour perhaps. You'll be alright on your own? I'm only in the back if you need me"

"Don't worry, I shall be just fine"

With that Hermione watched as her boss's slender form disappeared from her view.

-The Book Shop-

Over an hour later Minerva was rubbing her temples as she looked over the endless forms that never seemed to go down.

Her thoughts were interrupted when footsteps came into the back "Tea?"

Looking up she breathed a small sigh of relief when she saw Hermione making her way over to the kettle "Please"

"Taking longer than expected?" Hermione asked as she looked at the woman sat at the kitchen table.

"It seems so. Every time I think I've finished I find a few more. If I had known how much paper work was needed in owning just a simple bookshop I never would have gone through with it" the brunette grumbled.

Hermione smiled as the kettle started to whistle "I'm not so sure" she replied.

Leaning back in her chair and crossing her arms, Minerva looked at her assistant curiously "Oh?"

Peering over her shoulder Hermione asked "Two sugars, good splosh of milk right?"

"Yes" she replied but still waiting for an answer the young woman had made.

Hermione continued and placed Minerva's tea before her "I know I haven't known you for very long but I can see that this place suits you"

Holding her mug Minerva's green eyes stayed locked on Hermione, wanting to know what this woman meant "Suits me how?"

Hermione smiled and checked that no one was at the till before looking at the older woman who's eyes seemed so trained on her that she swore that even if she were behind a wall and moving from side to side her eyes would still follow.

"I'm not sure" she paused looking at her boss "You seem like the type of person who belongs in a room full of books and knowledge. I think if you hadn't decided to have this shop I think you would have been a marvellous teacher" Hermione confessed.

Minerva sighed as she played with her hot mug "I did teach once, a long time ago"

Hermione detected sadness in Minerva's voice and looked at her with curious eyes.

"What happened?"

Smiling, Minerva shrugged "I fell in love, had children, C'est la vie, etc"

"You have children?"

"I do indeed, but that is a story for another time lass, back to the till with you" Minerva shooed her away playfully.

"Yes ma'am" Hermione quipped cheekily, Minerva managing to pat her on the leg in jest.

"I shan't have no 'ma'am' in my shop now missy, its Miss McGonagall to you" her Scottish lilt pouring through as she bantered with Hermione.

Hermione laughed as she dashed back into the shop.

The melodious sound of Hermione's laughter remained in Minerva's mind for the rest of the day.

-The Book Shop-

One week later…

"I think this is the last box" Hermione called as she made her way down stairs with a small box of light bulbs.

Minerva looked over her shoulder as Hermione stepped off the last step on the way up to where she lived. Living above the bookshop was nice. She didn't have to rush about making sure she got the shop closed on time, she could potter about how ever she liked at her own pace and sometimes it was just nice to come down of an evening and select a book.

"I shall have to pop out at some point to get some more. Let me just get the ladders" she replied as she finished cleaning the plates they had just eaten their sandwiches on.

After drying her hands she walked down a small corridor to a cupboard where she usually kept ladders, brooms and mops and such.

Returning with the small ladder she followed Hermione into the shop where the light bulb had gone out.

"Is that alright?" Minerva asked as she positioned the ladder below the light.

"Yeah, that's perfect" Hermione replied while taking a bulb out of the box and passing the box back to Minerva.

Minerva held the ladder making sure it didn't wobble as Hermione climbed up and started replacing the dead bulb with the new one.

"You know, I don't think, Ron, my ex-husband, ever changed a light bulb while we lived together. He was so god damn lazy" Hermione muttered nonchalantly as she screwed the working bulb in.

"No?" Minerva said as she watched Hermione fiddling with the light.

"No" Hermione smiled looking down.

Minerva smiled slightly back as Hermione came back down the ladder, dead bulb in hand. Minerva understood where Hermione was coming from as her ex-husband too had been as lazy as shit. It still hurt to think of him but she knew she was better off without the dead beat that had cheated on her.

"There all done"

"Thank you" Taking the dead bulb from Hermione she started walking back into the kitchen "Would you get the ladder for me please?" she called back.

An ease had fallen between the two women in the near month or so Hermione had started working in the bookshop. Some days they would chit chat and banter, the air filled with laughter and on others, few words would be exchanged. Either way though they were always relaxed and content in the way the worked in the small little shop.

They were comfortable.

The older woman felt Hermione walk past her as she put the ladders back to where they belonged.

"We shall have to do a stock count in a few days" Minerva said quietly as Hermione came back into the kitchen.

"Alright" Hermione nodded as she sat down on a chair for a moment.

Minerva turned to look at her "It shall require you to stay after the store closes and shall take till at least 8 if not 9 o clock…"

Hermione went to speak but Minerva held up her hand "I know your children finish at 3.20 and if you are unable to find someone to look after them for those hours than I shall have to find someone else to help me for that evening"

Hermione thought for a moment "What day would it be?"

"Thursday I think should suffice"

"Well I shall speak to my parents and see if they could have them for that evening. I'm sure they wouldn't mind"

"If you really can't…"

Hermione leant forward and touched Minerva's arm, with a smile "It's fine, honestly. This is my job"

Minerva nodded knowing how hard it could be to juggle children and a job being a single parent.

"Well I can assure you it only happens once every month"

"What, no late night party's every night?" Hermione teased.

Minerva quirked an eyebrow and tilted her head looked into sparkling brown eyes with a sense of wonder "Depends on who's coming" Minerva quipped back with a roll of her eyes.

Hermione laughed and took her gentle hand away from Minerva's soft skin.

Neither realised at that time but a sense of longing for that touch subtly emerged within both of their hearts and in the months to come that presence would make itself more and more known.

-The Book Shop-

One week later…

Hermione slipped into the shop quietly. This morning had been more tiring than she would have liked. Hugo had complained saying he felt ill when Hermione knew perfectly well that he was just fine. He had science lessons this morning and Hermione knew how much he hated them. It was one subject he simply refused to wrap his head around and despite how much the teachers tried to make it fun and simple for him, the subject just seemed to aggravate him more.

Today had been no different.

Rose of course had neither been any help, teasing him until a fight broke out between the two. Rose ended up with scratch marks along her face and arms and Hugo a bloody nose, soiling his clean school shirt.

This of course made them further late having to change his clothes, him screaming as she dressed him when he refused to dress himself.

Walking them to school was no better, consisting of Rose running much too far ahead and Hugo toeing the edge of the pavement, scaring Hermione to near death when a car sped past.

After calling Rose back and giving a tongue lashing, she did the same with Hugo before forcing them both to hold her hands or forfeit watching TV for a whole week for their behaviour.

Eventually the two seemed to calm down but now Hermione was a little more tired than she'd like to be.

Shedding her coat Hermione started walking toward the kitchen but paused when she heard music blaring from its direction.

Recognising the song as Aretha Franklins 'I say a little prayer' she smiled and walked forward quietly, folding her coat in her arms.

What she saw made her smile grow wider and her heart spread with warmth and a little surprise. Minerva stood there buttering what she assumed was toast, humming along as her cute arse swayed to the rhythm.

She couldn't deny the older woman's figure was something to appreciate.

When the music hit the chorus Minerva increased her movements and her voice broke forth, singing along in perfect, alluring tune.

Hermione lifted her hand, covering her mouth to stop her chuckle from bursting forth. Leaning against the edge of the door she continued watch.

When the song slowed Hermione cleared her throat, knowing her boss wouldn't appreciate her spying.

Minerva jumped, spinning around, holding her hand to her chest and only calming when she saw Hermione's amused face.

"Miss Granger, you startled me!" she snipped.

"Forgive me Miss McGonagall" Hermione chuckled.

"You do know it's rude to sneak up on people?"

"I know I'm sorry, you just seemed to be enjoying yourself"

Minerva's eyes narrowed playfully at her. It wasn't very often Minerva let her guard down but around this woman it was slowly becoming obvious that she had found a friend, and her stern persona seemed to be melting away.

"Well, are you going to stand there watching me all day or are you going to come in and share some toast with me?"

Hermione merely smiled and joined her boss.

-The Book Shop-

Two weeks later…

Cold hands covered her eyes and Minerva jumped retaliating slightly until she heard Hermione's comforting chuckle.

"Miss Granger?"

"Yes, yes. Now stop wriggling" Hermione chaste, pressed against Minerva's back.

"What in bleeding hells teeth do you think you are doing?" Minerva drawled as she was shuffled around and made to walk forwards.

"Just trust me alright?"

"Trust you? My dear I have known you just over a month, and you are no doubt leading to my death whilst covering my eyes, and you want me to trust you?"

Hermione smiled as she rolled her eyes at her boss's dramatics.

"Step" she ordered as Minerva tentatively took a step into the shop.

"Miss Granger I swear…"

"You can swear to the high heavens McGonagall, no one's going to hear your cries but me" she teased "So just suck it up and trust me lady"

Minerva grumbled as she was lead to god knows where and though she persisted that she hated what was happening she knew in all truth that that wasn't true. She was enjoying the secrecy and the way Hermione's scent filled her nose. It was fresh and sweet just like Hermione.

"Alright, we are here. Are you ready?"

Minerva nodded "Ready as I'll ever be for my death dear" she replied, sarcasm lacing her words with kind.

"Oh hush" Hermione said as she let her hands fall away from Minerva's eyes "Happy Birthday"

Minerva let her eyes adjust and when they did she looked, in shock, at the small cake and present before her.

"How did you…" she looked at Hermione in confusion knowing that she hadn't told the girl when her birthday was and even though they had become friends as such she hadn't expected this sort of kindness. She was overwhelmed. She wouldn't show it.

The younger woman smiled as emerald eyes looked at her in confusion and simmering delight.

"I have my sources"

Green eyes narrowed as she tried to work out how the girl had found out.

Hermione sighed knowing the woman would pester her all day if she didn't find out. "When I took the delivery the other day the guy asked if you would be here today as he always leaves you a flower and some chocolates on your birthday. He seemed very sweet"

Minerva smiled knowing how kind Charles the delivery man was. Ever since her children and husband had left her he had been the kind face she saw every time she had a delivery. Somehow he had seen the sadness in her eyes one day and had taken it upon himself to make her day brighter whenever he came to see her.

"He is. Very sweet"

Hermione smirked as she leant against one of the bookshelves carefully "Perhaps he has a crush?" she teased.

Minerva scoffed and bent down to inspect the homemade cake "He is even younger than you, don't be ridiculous"

"And why would that be ridiculous? You are very attractive and he seemed very keen on you" the younger woman suggested.

"Are you high?"

"No higher than you Miss McGonagall. Now, open your presents" Hermione ushered.

Delight filled Minerva's chest as she looked at the small gift bag. She hadn't had a present in years. Her relationship with her children was strained to say the least and though she loved them dearly it seemed they couldn't find it in their hearts to let bygones be bygones.

"Shouldn't I open the card first?" she asked, an anticipation in her voice she hadn't heard in a long time.

"Whichever you wish, it's your Birthday"

"…You didn't have to do all this…"

"Oh Posh, now come on open your presents, the store will opening soon and we haven't all day" Hermione chaste, delighting in the way the older woman rolled her eyes at her.

Smiling, Minerva picked up the card and opened it carefully, relishing every moment of this small kindness given to her.

She chuckled softly when she saw a drawing of a library obviously done by Hermione's children. Opening it, she read the big and squiggly writing as her heart strings tugged.

"Do you like it? The children wanted to help so…"

Emerald eyes shone in Hermione's direction "It's Lovely, thank you dear and thank Rose and Hugo as well, they are very talented" she said kindly.

"I will" Hermione confirmed.

Seeing the older woman like this, happy and full of delight gave Hermione a warmth she had never known. It was content, full, warm, fuzzy and mischievous. It was wonderful.

Placing her card carefully back on the table, she picked up the bag and looked inside it with a small smile. Although wrapped, she could instantly tell one was a bottle of wine no doubt, but the other was a box like shape.

Pulling it out, she unwrapped the paper to reveal a white box "A white box, just what I've always wanted" Minerva teased.

Rolling her eyes, Hermione tilted her head and looked at her pointedly.

"I'm teasing child"

"Just open it woman" Hermione chuckled.

Nodding, Minerva prised the lid off the box to reveal a lovely patterned silk scarf. The blues, browns and creams ran through the patterns and Minerva couldn't quite believe how lovely it was as she ran her ageing hands over it.

"Oh Hermione" she whispered, her first name slipping off her tongue without realisation.

Hermione's stomach gave a slight jolt as the older woman whispered her name but she quickly shrugged it off as nothing and moved forward.

"Do you like it?"

"Oh it's beautiful. Thank you" Minerva said earnestly, her one hand reaching out and squeezing Hermione's with care and appreciation.

"Oh I'm so glad" Hermione released a breath.

Taking it out of the box Minerva put it around her neck and turned to face the young woman "Well what do you think?"

Smiling, Hermione inspected her "It suits you very well I think"

"Thank you again Miss granger, this was very thoughtful of you"

Hermione waved her off "It was my pleasure. I'll move the cake into the kitchen while you put your card and things away?"

"That would be wonderful" Minerva replied, watching with thoughtful eyes as Hermione picked up the cake and made her way back toward the kitchen.

What a wonderful creature she was Minerva thought as she collected her things.

-The Book Shop-

One week later…

Minerva muttered behind the counter as she searched for her spare pair of glasses, her others had done a disappearing act and now she was having trouble locating her spares as well.

"What the bloody hell have I done with you?" she muttered to herself as she opened another draw and rifled around. She really did need to de-clutter some of these draws again.

The doorbell chimed announcing Hermione's presence and Minerva looked up briefly.

"Good morning Miss McGonagall. Something amiss?"

"My glasses it seems"

Hermione frowned trying to remember if she had seen them the previous day "I don't recall seeing them anywhere"

"Apparently neither do I" Minerva grumbled when she found a grey case "Aha!" she said with a smile.

"Your glasses?" Hermione enquired as she starting shedding her coat as she walked toward the kitchen.

"My spares but they shall do for now" she said popping them on and picking up her book, indulging in a few more pages before her day truly began.

"Tea in the pot?" Hermione called from the kitchen.

"Yes dear" Minerva called back while picking up hers from the counter and taking a hot healthy sip. She sighed in delight and continued to read, noting when Hermione came and leant on the opposite side of the counter, watching her as she often did in the mornings.

Hermione smiled as she noticed Minerva wearing the scarf she had brought her for her birthday. It really did look lovely on her she thought as she took in the comforting image of the older woman. Something about her gave Hermione a sense of calm she couldn't quite put her finger on.

Perhaps it was the way she moved, so graceful and quiet and yet a sureness in her steps that gave off an authority like no other. And her eyes, now they really were her greatest feature Hermione thought. They were captivating. Cat like and so green Hermione swore they sometimes shone. And when the time was right, in the briefest of moments Hermione would catch a glimmer of mischief and amusement dancing in them. Definitely her greatest feature.

Hermione found she didn't know much about her boss's personal life though. While Hermione would tell her of her children and her past, Minerva only gave tid bits of information about hers. She wondered if perhaps something had hurt the woman greatly in that past as she would often find a sadness in Minerva's eyes that spoke volumes.

At times Minerva would find her staring, catching her out, and would close up quicker than a fly trap. Hermione wanted to prise her back open and to see what lay beneath all those layers Minerva so viciously put up.

One day, perhaps.

Taking a sip of her tea she closed her eyes for a moment, feeling more tired today than usual. Hugo had had trouble sleeping last night and had crawled into bed with her in the early hour's of this morning. Hermione hadn't slept until she knew he was asleep and calm and even then sleep seemed to evade her for another hour or so.

Looking up from her book Minerva looked over at Hermione, eyes closed and relaxed, in rapt fascination. This woman was curious to her. She held such light and wit and yet she knew this woman, in the past year had alone, had gone through much.

Divorce was not a matter taken lightly and Minerva knew how painful the process was. Yet she came in everyday, happy and ready to work. The woman had taken her by surprise when she had brought her a cake and gifts for her birthday. No one had done such a thing for her in a long time and she swore that she would repay her in kind.

She found herself cherishing Hermione's friendship. This morning found shadows under her friend's eyes though and concern washed over her 59 year old body.

"You look tired this morning" Minerva enquired softly.

Hermione's eyes opened slowly, a haze taking over them that Minerva found more than adorable.

"Hugo had a nightmare and kept me up longer than I would like. Don't worry, a few more cups of tea and I'll be as right as rain" Hermione said softly closing her eyes again for a moment.

"So long as young don't fall asleep and start drooling on my counter dear" Minerva teased quietly.

Hermione opened one eye "No drooling, got it" she smiled before closing her eye again.

Minerva smirked. Her hair today was pulled into a high messy pony. A few strands fell here and there and though they looked nice Minerva felt the itching urge to tuck them behind her small perfect ears.

Frowning at her own thoughts Minerva tore her eyes away and back to her book.

-The Book Shop-

Later that day found Hermione writing out some labels for advertising certain books as Minerva pottered around the shop.

Pausing for a moment in her writing, Hermione looked up to find Minerva bent down speaking to a young girl.

Curiosity washed over her as she watched the way Minerva interacted with the small girl. Her face lit up and a tenderness Hermione had never seen on the woman laced Minerva's usually stern features.

Hermione couldn't hear what was being said but the way the young girl giggled and beamed at Minerva told her all she needed to know.

A woman cut off her view suddenly and Hermione looked up a smile in place "May I help you?"

The woman looked at her for a moment as though assessing her. "Just these" she said stiffly, placing two books on the counter.

One was a horror novel Hermione had been looking at the other day and the other a children's book. Perhaps this woman was the child's mother? After scanning the books through, she looked back up.

"That'll be £13.50 please"

The woman entered her card into the card machine, waiting until Hermione told her to enter her pin.

When the transaction was finished Hermione smiled and gave the woman her purchases "Thank you, have a nice day"

The woman didn't say anything just gave her a once over with anything but kind eyes and walked over to where Minerva was still animatedly talking with the young girl.

Minerva tapped the girl on the nose and swept her into a hug that tugged on Hermione's heart strings. How did Minerva know this girl? Was she family?

Before Hermione could think further though the woman she had just served snatched her child away from Minerva and scurried out of the shop.

What was that about?

A look of utter hurt passed over Minerva's face and though Hermione stood a fair distance from her boss she knew tears were gathering in the elder woman's eyes.

Walking over slowly, Hermione touched Minerva's arm gently when she reached her, trying not to frighten the woman.

"Are you alright?" Hermione said very quietly, not knowing what else to say.

Silence answered her.

"Who were they?" Hermione tried again.

Lifting her chin Minerva blinked back her tears and felt her hard façade fall into place.

"My daughter and granddaughter" She said emotionless.

Hermione's heart tugged, realising now how hurt the woman must feel. The way her daughter reacted to her had been horrid that was for sure. But why?

She knew it was not her place to ask such questions though and let them drift off, instead trying to make Minerva focus on the brighter sides that obviously seemed so far away.

"Your granddaughter is beautiful"

Minerva only nodded though "I have some paper work… I ugh… need to do. Look after the shop please" Minerva muttered before disappearing into the back and up the stairs.

Hermione didn't blame her.

-The Book Shop-

Two weeks later…

A knife went through the sandwiches Minerva had just made for Hermione and herself, cheese and pickle. She didn't think she would ever grow old of a cheese and pickle sandwich. It was one of those foods that comforted you and filled the spot when you didn't even know you had a spot to fill. It was like egg and soldiers and soup, it was one of a kind.

"They look divine" Hermione said over her shoulder.

Minerva smiled "Indeed they do dear, anyone in the shop?"

"Not at the moment, it's still tipping it down so we may not see many more customers today"

Minerva nodded "That's fine, we had a busy one yesterday" she admitted "Would you grab the juice from the fridge?"

Hermione nodded and got the orange juice and two glasses from the cupboard with ease.

Nothing had been said between them about what had happened over two weeks ago between Minerva and her daughter and granddaughter. She admitted she was itching to ask her, to understand why? She knew her place though and kept her prying thoughts to herself.

What would she say anyway? 'Hey why was your daughter such a bitch to you?' certainly not Hermione thought as she sat down, Minerva following her with their sandwiches and salad.

Hermione poured them both a glass of juice as Minerva set down the plates and Hermione couldn't help but moan in anticipation.

The older woman looked at her with a quirked eyebrow, the low moan having sent a sensation down her spine that she refused to name or acknowledge.

"I'm starving" Hermione laughed in explanation.

"I didn't realise the sight of food could make you so wanton Miss Granger. Perhaps I should re-think my strategies for when you aren't in such a graceful mood" Minerva bantered.

Hermione smiled as she picked up her knife and fork and started digging into her salad "Food. The way to a woman's heart indeed"

"Not just to her bed then?" a smug smile adorning her face as she popped a cherry tomato into her mouth.

Minerva was indeed a marvel Hermione thought as she looked at the mischievous woman before her. Sometimes she could be so quiet and so serious. Yet here she sat practically flirting with her, Hermione just couldn't help but want to know her.

"Are you implying that I'm a …" Hermione thought "A food whore?" she tried to say seriously but the smile breaking through her lips gave her away.

Minerva chuckled as she ate "I would never imply such a thing dear"

"Mhmmm" Hermione rolled her eyes in jest as she bit into her sandwich with a pleasant sigh.

Tucking into their food an easy air settled upon them, content to just sit, waiting for the bell to chime and at times take glances of the other.

"Did Rose and Hugo enjoy visiting their father over the weekend?" Minerva inquired quietly.

Even though she had not met Hermione's children she felt a care for them that had taken her quite by surprise. Since receiving the handmade card from them on her birthday, Minerva had received many a more drawings and she cherished each every one with their colourful analogy's and wobbly lines.

"I think so, they seemed content enough. I know Rose is a bit more wary as she's older but Hugo was just happy to see his father" Hermione said with a shrug. "So long as he loves them and treats them well I'm happy"

"I'm glad." Minerva's voice slightly distant "So often the children get caught in the crossfire. Prejudice is so easily formed. You seem to be wise in your actions"

Hermione swallowed her food and looked at Minerva's dark hair and beautiful face "Is that what happened between you and your daughter…?" Hermione almost smacked herself when the words slipped out. "I'm sorry I shouldn't have asked"

Minerva held out her hand "No, no it's quite alright. To a degree yes, but the situation between us is… a little more complicated"

Hermione didn't say anything this time though. Instead she just waited, giving Minerva the chance to either go on or for the conversation to stop there.

"Robert cheated on me. I found out and wanted out of the marriage straight away but he wouldn't allow it. He became a very bitter man after that. Our children Loraine and William were only young so I decided to try sort things out per say but it was not to be" Minerva re-counted as she sat back on her chair with a sigh.

"Things happened that shouldn't have and my husband made a lie. He told my children something that was not true and turned them against me. Because of the accusations and the views at that particular time I lost custody of my children and he took them" she drifted off sadly

"But he cheated" Hermione argued, trying to understand how the court could over look this.

"Yes" Minerva agreed "And yet he still managed to tear my children away from me. All I'm saying is…"

"I don't…"

"…No parent should have to lose a child they so desperately love" Minerva finished "That is all I have to say on this matter. This conversation is over"

Hermione looked at her, pain for this woman filling her body like nothing else "What on earth could have possibly have been said to tear you away from your children after that bastard committed one of the worst sins possible? It's disgusting, I swear if i…"

"Miss Granger please…"

"I'm sorry but no right minded person would tear away a mother from the children she so…"

"Hermione…"

"Clearly loves. I can't…"

"I kissed a woman Hermione!" Minerva shouted shutting the younger woman up.

Hermione looked at her confused "I don't understand"

Minerva licked her lips sighing "I kissed a woman when I was drunk. Somehow Robert found out and made it out that I had been having some sordid affair for months with a woman. The court immediately took his side. There's nothing else to understand. Times were different, same sex partnerships were very frowned upon, things were different back then" Minerva said with finality.

"B,But that's wrong" Hermione stated. This woman was wonderful and kind. So what she kissed a woman, Hermione couldn't say that she hadn't kissed a woman when she was younger and in all honesty she often found women to be quite attractive.

"I'm afraid that's the way it is dear. I only told you this so to warn you Hermione. Alright? This conversation goes no further"

Hermione didn't say anything else, just nodded.

Minutes passed in silence until they finished their meals.

"Minerva?" Hermione said quietly.

"Yes Hermione?" Minerva looked up at her with soft tired eyes.

Hermione hesitated but knew she needed to say these words "I don't know everything that happened and I'm not asking to, but I know, I feel it in my bones that you were, and are, a good mother. And if you kissing a woman makes you a bad mother then I and millions of other women who love their children must be bad mothers too"

Minerva shook her head "Hermione…"

"Don't fight me on this one, please?"

The older woman didn't say anything though just stared in wonder at those beautiful chocolate orbs.

Hermione smiled an idea popping into her head a she leaned forward "I'm going kiss you Miss McGonagall, alright?"

Minerva lips twitched and watched as Hermione leant forward and placed soft kiss upon her cheek.

"Well aren't we sordid" Hermione whispered cheekily.

A chuckle erupted from Minerva's throat as she looked at her lovely assistant once more "Quite"

-The Book Shop-

3 weeks later on Saturday morning…

"But mum I wanna go swimming!" Hugo huffed as Hermione ushered them into the bookshop.

Hermione was having a hell of a morning that was for sure as she tried to drown out her children's droning complaining.

"I know baby but your daddy isn't here yet so you're going to have to wait here with me until he comes alright? I don't want any silly behaviour now, or Miss McGonagall will feed you to the dragons" she whispered conspiratorially, tickling Rose and Hugo's sides making them laugh.

"Spilling secrets about my dragons are we Miss Granger?"

Hermione blushed as she looked up at her boss. She hadn't told Minerva she would be bringing the children as she hadn't known until twenty minutes ago but when she saw the twinkle in those emerald eyes she knew she was forgiven.

"I hear you breed one of the most feared dragons in all the land" Hermione said back, watching with delight as her children's face broke into wander.

"Indeed I do. I think If you go just around the corner…" she pointed around to some children's books "You might just find some books on them"

Her children looked at her in permission to go "Go on then, but no running or squabbling!" she called as they dashed off.

"Let me help you with those bags" Minerva said kindly as she took the children's back packs.

"Thank you"

"Tea?" Minerva asked gently as they made their way into the kitchen.

Hermione moaned at the thought "Oh yes please" she said as she put her bag on the table and started shedding her coat and scarf before hanging them up.

"Did Ron not show again?" the older woman asked as she set to work on the teas, making it just as Hermione liked it.

"Yes" Hermione said annoyed as she leant against the counter next to Minerva "I swear that man is going to drive to me to my grave. He hasn't even called. I rang him and rang him but he doesn't answer. He says he wants custody, to spend time with his kids but when given the opportunity he doesn't show up" Hermione vented "I'm sorry, you don't need to hear this"

Minerva smiled and passed Hermione her tea before squeezing her arm in comfort "I don't mind. It's twice this week" Minerva noted.

Ron had done the same thing on Thursday and Hermione had showed up with her children out of the blue until the grandparents had shown up and taken the two to school.

"I know, I'm sorry"

"Stop apologizing dear. It's certainly not your fault"

"I know but…"

"Hermione" Minerva said pointedly.

Closing her eyes Hermione try to calm herself, losing her angered thoughts. Opening them again she found emerald eyes looking at her intently and felt a rush of something fill her.

"Come one, let's go see those two rascals you call children, hmm?"

Chuckling Hermione followed Minerva, tea in hand is they checked on her two gems.

Finding her children, Hermione smiled at the way Hugo cuddled into Rose's side as she pointed out different things and helped him with words he didn't necessarily understand.

"That one Is so big!" Hugo said as they inspected what both women assumed was a dragon.

"Look mummy, it has weally big wings and is owange"

Hermione bent her head to look and nodded "So he is dear, very beautiful" she indulged him.

Hermione came back to her side and Minerva leant towards her, her voice quiet and out of ear shot of the children "What arrangement do you have with Ron in terms of seeing the children may I ask? If you don't wish to answer that's fine, it's entirely your business"

"No, no, its fine" Hermione smiled "When we divorced we came to the agreement that he should be allowed to the children at least once a week and should be able to take them every other weekend. It just seemed natural for him to help out whenever he can"

Minerva nodded as Hermione continued.

"I mean I think he will always argue for more time with them and to be honest I don't blame him, he is their father but when he doesn't call or show up on days he has promised to have them I wonder why I give him such leeway"

"You do it because you are a good and fair mother and you did once trust him. He is the father of your children, you were married to him, how could you not?"

"Perhaps I'm a fool to trust him though?"

Minerva smiled and looked at her with empathy and care "I think, you are only human my dear"

"I sometimes wonder if that's enough" Hermione smiled wryly.

"For now, it has to be" Minerva confirmed as they both sipped their tea, content to watch the children read about dragons, their worlds still so bright and full wonder, not yet repressed by complications of getting older.

"I sometimes wonder what it would be like to be their age again" Hermione confessed quietly "I wish I could just go back to that stage of innocence, the world painted in bright colours"

Minerva chuckled quietly as she studied the younger woman, entranced by the simple sound of Hermione's musings.

"I think you shall find the world is still at your feet Mss Granger. We may not think that every road is made out of sweets and sugar and the clouds out of cotton candy but I'm sure you would agree that grownups can still find fun and pleasure in other ways" Minerva quirked her eyebrow, that look of mischief lacing her features once again.

Hermione looked at her, her interest peaked as always when Minerva's mischievous banter took place.

"Why do I get the feeling that the usually quiet and stern Miss McGonagall holds quite the wild streak?" Hermione teased.

"Whoever said I didn't?" emerald eyes looked at Hermione with something she couldn't quite put her finger on.

Smiling, the younger woman nodded "Touché, maybe…" Hermione paused as she felt her phone vibrating. Pulling it out of her pocket she looked at Minerva in apology who just smiled at her in return telling her it was alright.

Tapping her phone she sighed "Hello?"

Minerva watched as Hermione moved away from her and the children and further toward the shop door. Her ears pricked when she hear Ron's name growled out from Hermione's lips and couldn't help a small smirk when she heard her lasing him with her witty tongue.

The girl certainly had a way with words, something Minerva found quite amusing at times. Minerva had a few friends, not many but all close but never had she felt as close with them as she did with Hermione.

Times like these gave her too much food for thought Minerva chaste herself. An old lady and her musings she usually cast it off as.

She continued to watch the children, finishing her tea when Hermione returned to her side, but this time her forehead wrinkled with worry lines, her demeanour no longer as relaxed.

"Everything alright?" she asked softly.

Hermione nodded tightly "Ron shall be here soon to take the children, so they'll be out of your hair soon. It's just past nine as well so I'll get started on…"

"Hermione, stop" Minerva interrupted "Your children are always more than welcome here, so don't ever think they are 'In my hair' and secondly you will stay with your children until Ron arrives and I will take care of the shop alright?"

"But i…"

"Ah, ah, my shop, my rules. Now go read with your children before I drag you into my lap and make you sit down, and who shall run the shop then?"

Hermione smiled at the thought of sitting in Minerva's lap before nodding her consent "Alright, thank you"

Minerva waved her off and walked away, but not before sparing the mother and her children a soft tender glance.

-The Book Shop-

Two weeks later…

Hermione arrived early on Sunday morning, just before 8, feeling happy and refreshed. Opening her bag, she pulled out a packet of freshly baked blueberry muffins and started making the tea when she heard Minerva's familiar steps coming down the stairs.

Turning she smiled when she saw the older woman look at her in surprise, still messing with her hair.

"You're early Miss Granger" Minerva said curiously.

"Indeed I am Miss McGonagall, but I bring muffins and I'm just making some tea" Hermione said with a teasing smile.

The older woman couldn't stop the warmth that ran through her body.

"Then I shall have to forgive you. Like you said before, food is always the way to a woman's heart" she smiled.

"Not just her bed" Hermione finished, the two chuckling as the kettle whistled.

"You are very early this morning though, any reason?" Minerva asked as she sat down at the table, watching as the younger woman got two small plates for their muffins.

"No particular reason really, I just feel rather chipper this morning and thought I would buy us some muffins. Do you object?" Hermione teased.

"Not at all, perhaps we should make this a regular thing?" Minerva winked back knowing that Hermione's busy schedule with her children would never allow for such a thing.

"I wish. I woke up early this morning despite the children staying at their fathers. It was nice to just wake slowly and mill around instead of having to rush about"

Green eyes twinkled in her direction "I'm glad you're having a nice morning dear"

"Me too. Now, let sit and eat"

Silence took over the two women as they sat content to eat the blueberry muffins and drink their tea.

Hermione liked how having tea with each other very morning had almost become a routine something they did without fail.

It was these times Hermione treasured most she thought. It was that one time of the day she was given the opportunity to rest and watch. Watch, the morning clouds and birds through Minerva's kitchen window. Watch the way Minerva made their tea, the way she moved, the way her eyes creased with lines as she smiled at her when she came through the door.

On the two days off she had during the week she missed these small moments. And so when she came in every morning, ready to start the day, she tried to memorize every single detail. From the way Minerva hands would caress her tea cup, to the way she would look at her over the rim of her glasses.

Hermione wasn't a fool, she knew over these past months she had developed somewhat of a crush on Minerva. But she wasn't stupid either. She knew that sooner or later the feelings would disappear and she would move on, and though the way Minerva would look at her sometimes gave Hermione the impression that perhaps felt the same, Hermione knew she was wrong. The woman was way out of her league.

"Penny for your thoughts?" Minerva asked softly, curious as to the way the young woman had been staring at her. What she would give just to peak into that brilliant mind.

Hermione smiled and looked down briefly before returning her gaze to curious green emeralds.

"I think I'd need over a thousand penny's to understand even my own thoughts right now" Hermione confessed as she picked more of her blueberry muffin and popped it in her mouth.

"Only over a thousand?" Minerva teased.

Hermione smiled "For this one thought, possibly, for the whole collection, now that really would be a fortune"

"Maybe, but perhaps it would be worth it" Minerva looked at her with eyes that spoke volumes.

Hermione knew flirting when she saw it but perhaps the woman was just caring of her. Friends flirted and bantered all the time, you knew the line and though you toed it you understood that it would go no further.

Was this the same? Hermione convinced herself many a time that it was. Question was, was she right?

"Maybe, but I thought I'd found the person who wanted the whole collection, I was wrong" Hermione said as she sipped more of her tea.

"Yes, but that doesn't mean someone else wouldn't like to" Minerva said trying not to let on that in these past few months she had indeed become fond of the girl.

"Are you suggesting I date?"

Minerva felt something in inside her fall but she pushed it away "Why not? You are young and beautiful, you still have your whole life ahead of you. Why not let yourself fish the waters once again, there's plenty out there, you just have to catch the right one" Minerva encouraged despite herself.

"But the children…"

"Are fine. I'm not suggesting that you run out pick up the first guy you see and get married dear. All I'm saying is go flirt and have fun, your children don't need to meet them until you are sure and ready of the person. The ball is entirely in your court until you say so, you just have to decide what you'd like to do with it"

Hermione looked at her hesitantly as the older woman continued.

"You don't have to do it right now but maybe you should think about it?"

Hermione nodded mulling over what Minerva said with deep thought.

"Did you ever date again?" Hermione asked curiously.

Minerva looked at her thoughtfully, admiring the way the sun illuminated Hermione's features.

"A little. It was difficult at first I don't deny and I had few one night stands I'm not proud of but my life had other complications that yours does not. Take advantage of life Hermione, don't let it slip through your fingers because of one stupid young man. You have two beautiful children, I'm not saying you need a man in your life, I'm definitely happy without them! But maybe one day it will be something you want again, there's no harm in thinking about it" Minerva advised kindly.

Reaching over, Hermione squeezed Minerva's hands, not saying anything when Minerva caught her fingers and caressed them, instead enjoying the small movement before letting the moment pass.

"Thank you" Hermione said softly "I think I will make a head start on bringing in some of the new stock we got yesterday?"

"Alright dear"

With that Hermione moved to the sink, washed her plate briefly before taking her tea with her into the shop where they kept most of the stock in one of the store cupboards towards the end of the shop.

Minerva watched her go with confusion in her heart. She was conflicted, she had never liked anyone like this, let alone a woman. Yes, she had kissed a woman but she had been drunk, she hadn't slept with her, it had been a fleeting moment of drunken stupidity. Yet here she sat, wondering what it would be like to hold Hermione's hands, to touch her skin and kiss her full lips.

Breathing in, she sat back against her chair and closed her eyes for a moment. These thoughts were no good. She liked the woman very much but these thoughts would get her nowhere she knew.

Every time the woman brushed past her though she couldn't help but inhale her scent and eventually throughout the day she would find the smallest ways to be closer to the woman.

Foolish thoughts of a foolish old woman. No. It was no good she finalised with herself.

TBC.