"I was asked if I was interested in being Minister today," James said as he walked into the parlor.

Marvolo looked up from his book and tried to keep his expression innocent. James merely looked at him with narrowed eyes.

"When I strongly suggested that you would be a better choice I was told that you had already declined in favor of keeping your position as headmaster. Then, of course, I asked why I was chosen. Apparently I was given glowing reviews from not only you, but Lucius and several other Ministers across the continent."

James finished talking and stood with his arms crossed, glaring at Marvolo. That worthy grinned and, standing, put his book on the table before walking to stand before James.

"You have a deft hand at politics and, what's more, you enjoy it. I am where I've always wanted to be, why should I give that up to become Minister? Besides…" James raised an eyebrow when Marvolo paused. "It makes a marvelous gift. Happy Birthday, James."

James kept his glare in place until Marvolo stooped down and pressed their lips together, effectively distracting him.

"I still can't believe you kept this from me," James said breathlessly when the two came up for air. "What I find more unbelievable is that you got the other Ministers to recommend me."

"They owe you more than enough, so they were glad for the chance. I also pointed out that they'd be dealing with you either way." Marvolo smiled proudly.

James sighed as he threw himself onto the settee. "Only eighteen and Minister of Magic, what am I to do?" he asked, his voice holding a certain amount of overdramatic flair.

"Oh please, like you haven't been the one behind all the reforms in the past year. This way you'll simply be doing it officially. Besides, now that we've gotten rid of Fudge we need someone with our values in power. There simply aren't any better candidates."

James sighed again. "I can barely believe it's been almost a year since we disposed of Dumbledore."

"Well it has, and everything is falling into place."

The two were silent for a while until a bell chimed somewhere in the distance. Marvolo stood. "My second surprise for you," he announced before sweeping from the room.

James stood and followed him curiously. As they neared the Entrance Hall voices and laughter began to echo towards them down the corridor.

"James!" called several voices as he stepped into the Hall, and that worthy paused as he looked over those assembled.

Ingrid was there with her husband, as were Nicole, Monica, and Satsuki: the French, German, and Japanese Ministers respectively. Satsuki, in the past year, had been elected Minister in Japan. Henry, the minister from Denmark, was alone as always. Hermione and Victor arrived together next followed by groups of other people that James knew. Everyone was greeted in the Entrance Hall by Lucius and summarily directed towards the Ballroom.

Marvolo prodded James into the procession and he was suddenly surrounded by people congratulating him, both on his birthday and his position as Minister. He tried to glare at Marvolo, but couldn't keep his expression straight long enough for it to be effective. Besides, the smirking man knew that James was enjoying himself, never having had a ball in his honor before.

It was hours before the party was over, going into the night despite the ending time stated on the invitations that had been sent out. Most had gone home, but a few had stayed the night so as to spend time with the Manor's residents the next day.

It was with relish that James finally found himself sprawled across his bed, still fully clothed, after the festivities had ended.

"Tired?" asked Marvolo, amused as he slipped off his robe.

James just made an unintelligible noise, unwilling to move his face from its position face down on the comforter. Marvolo laughed.

"You'll have to get used to it, because you'll have to deal with all sorts of issues now that you're Minister."

"Marvolo?" James asked, lifting his head up slightly so as to be heard.

"Hm?"

"Come undress me."

Marvolo grinned in anticipation. "My pleasure."

James's smile was hidden in the folds of the bedspread.

A/N: Short, I know, but I really didn't think more needed to be said. So welcome to the end to A Different Reality, I hope you enjoyed it. It was a pleasure to write it for you all, and all the notifications I got from this story were incredibly appreciated (and motivating). And, as always, thank you for all the reviews!