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-You can just tell me about your day, said Albus.
The tiny young girl on the chair in front of him made a "mmmmmmh" sound as she thought, holding her teddy bear close to her.
Albus waited patiently, his pen in his hand.
It was around 3 PM. This was his last patient for today, before the weekend.
-I, started the child, I...
She stopped, balancing her legs nervously.
-Don't worry, reminded her Albus. Take your time.
-I...
He noticed the girl glancing at his name, on his desk.
Albus Dumbledore, speech therapist.
He had way more middle-names, but there was very little space on the tag.
His whole office was very neat, with shelves filled with children’s books and essays, boxes of pencils in a corner, a few more chairs just in case, a couch and his desk. It was a bit colder today than usual -thanks to the heater breaking a few hours earlier-, but Modesty didn’t seem to mind.
-I...
03:07.
Albus smiled encouragingly at Modesty, who took a gulp.
At 04 :00 exactly, the consultation was done, and the teenager who had come with her picked her up.
-Would you rather fix the date for the next consultation now or by phone ? Asked Albus.
The teenager shrugged.
-Please tell your mother to call me then, said Albus. Goodbye Modesty.
The tiny girl waved at him, as she left with her sister.
Albus stood up straight, stretching lightly -he heard his back make an uncomfortable "pop !"- before going back in his office, organizing his papers before turning off the light.
He put on his coat and his hat, and left the cabinet, closing behind him.
He was established just outside the town. He had another office in Liverpool ; he just didn't use it often, and most of the time, he just allowed his colleagues to use it as a storage room, or rented it.
There was a light breeze at the moment; but according to the radio, it was going to turn into a stronger wind later, so he didn't spend too much time outside.
He went in his car, pushing the sandwich crumbs off his seat, turned the engine on, and drove away.
On any other day, he would stay to eat and sleep in the room adjacent to his office, maybe watch a movie or start a new book. Not tonight, unfortunately ; for some reasons, one of his friends had asked for help organizing his wedding.
Albus smiled at the thought.
The wedding was planned in seven months, but Jacob and Queenie were already sending out the invitations, thinking about every detail, and even went as far as hiring a wedding planner. He honestly had no idea of what he could do to help ; but Jacob had insisted, telling him he was ready to make him a flowerboy if it meant he could help them in this mess -which Albus had honestly considered, having never been a flower anything before.
So, instead of going towards Liverpool as usual when he took the car, he followed the placards indicating Birkenhead.
Rain surprised him as he arrived, and he made it to the house almost running, having forgotten his umbrella.
-Dumbledore ! Greeted Jacob, with his usually loud voice and american accent, opening the door.
-How are you Jacob ? Smiled Albus, taking off his hat.
-Never felt so good and stressed at the same time. Can I take your coat ?
-No, don't worry, replied Albus, hanging it in the wardrobe. So, how can I be of help ?
Jacob made a motion towards the living room, and Albus followed him, admiring the hallway.
The last time he had come, it was still filled with boxes and crates from New York ; it seemed Jacob and Queenie had gotten accustomed to Britain since, even going as far as having a collection of tea sets, hanging on a shelf.
The living room was brightly lit when he entered, and filled with people he was almost sure he had never met. He recognized Queenie, of course -who rushed to hug him before leaving as fast, a pile of weddings magazines in her hands-, Newt Scamander -who was very busy playing with the cat-, Tina Goldstein -who was busy looking at Newt playing with the cat-, Theseus Scamander -who seemed quite out of place, in his formal suit-, as well as some faces he must've seen briefly before -Kama and Lally, for example-, sitting on the various chairs and couches disposed around the room.
But Jacob was still walking, only stopping in the kitchen.
The table was filled with more wedding magazines -he didn't even know those existed-, pictures of pastries, and complicated table arrangements.
-Dumbledore, this is Grindelwald, presented Jacob. He’s in charge of the planning.
That's when Albus noticed the man sitting at the table, staring at the table arrangements before his name was called.
-Nice to meet you, said Albus, reaching towards him.
Grindelwald barely looked up from his papers, shaking his hand.
-Pleasure is mine, he said, his voice low and slow, as if he chose his words carefully. Are you the one who's supposed to help me with this mess ?
He only gave him a quick look, but Albus felt his heart skip a beat.
Well damn.
That -that was a beautiful man.
-I'm afraid so, said Albus, sitting in one of the chairs.
The kitchen was quite cramped, with only the table at the center, chairs all of different models, a stove that was also a microwave, a magnetic fridge covered in pictures, and a huge cupboard. The whole area smelled sweet, like sugar.
-I have no idea who any of the guests are, admitted Grindelwald, his eyes turned towards the paper, nor if they have any, feud let's say, so I'm going to need your help figuring it out.
-I'm afraid I don't know them much better, said Albus, his heart beating fast enough for him to worry about Grindelwald hearing it -he really was overreacting, wasn’t he ?-, but I'll do my best.
-Your best will be enough, assured Grindelwald. Now, is there anyone who absolutely cannot sit near this person ?
-Kama ? Let me think...
They started with the people Albus knew the best, then went for the ones he was sure he had seen at least once, and, at 7 PM, when some of the guests had left and the others had given them some comments, Grindelwald finally declared the first three tables done, with a sight of relief, leaning against the back of his chair.
-I'd have asked Jacob or Queenie for help, however they are already quite busy, he explained, getting up, to Albus' regret. But thank your for your collaboration.
-It changes from my usual Friday, said Albus, standing up too.
He briefly noted a small height difference between him and Grindelwald, before finally seeing his face up front completely.
White strands of hair, no beard, a pale blue eye and a darker one, both looking at him.
This... was definitely not making him look less attractive.
-Have a nice evening, said Albus, his heart fluttering again, praying not to look to ridiculous.
-Thank you, said Grindelwald, tearing his eyes away from him. We will probably see each other at the wedding, if not sooner.
Albus nodded, and after chatting briefly with Queenie and Jacob, Grindelwald left, rounding up the number of people in the room to six.
They ate more of the leftovers than fresh dinner, before talking about the wedding a bit longer.
-Ok everyone, said Queenie, at 9 PM, already yawning, thank you all for coming. As you know, this is our seventh anniversary, so, we're glad you were able to come, even if just for a while. Now, I think I'm going to...
She yawned again, making the guests chuckle.
-I won't keep you up more, said Albus. Have a lovely evening.
The others also gave their goodbyes, before leaving, picking up coats and scarfs on their way.
-Can we bring you somewhere, Dumbledore ? Asked Tina.
-I'll be fine, thank you, replied Albus, opening his car door. Be careful on the road !
On the way back, he turned on the radio, listening to the latest news while driving.
Slowly, he tried to repeat the words.
-Now, let's go back to the declaration made yesterday, he repeated, concentrating on his pronounciation.
By the time he was home, his throat was starting to hurt a little, and after pills, shower, teeth brushing, and checking that yes, his alarm was set up, he layed down in bed, staring at the wall next to him.
No consultations tomorrow.
It was now 10 :17.
He closed his eyes, hoping the next time he opened them, it'd be morning already.
He had actually woken up during the night ; but he didn't get out of bed until 7 AM, with only vague memories of his dreams -something about tired eyes looking at him.
While eating, he tried not checking his phone too much -bad news always came in the morning, he had noticed-, and jumped out of his seat when the familiar ringtone started playing.
-Hello ? He asked, accepting the call.
-It's about the catering, said Queenie nervously. I'm sorry to bother you so early, but we really don't know what to pick for the appetizers and main dish, and we need your advice... please ?
-Yes, of course, he replied, already cleaning the table. How can I help ?
-Oh, thank you! Well, we are going to Mr. Grindelwald's office in twenty minutes, so could you perhaps join us here ? I really don't want to bother you, so...
-Sure, just send me the adress. I'll meet you there.
-Thank you so much !
She hung up, and he went to get dressed quickly, took his keys, wallet and phone, and left.
The adress was nearby ; he walked to the office, which happened to be only ten minutes away -seven if you walked fast.
Grindelwald was already outside, in the small space around the office that he seemed to use as his parking lot, gazing at him lazily, his hair and attire looking perfect.
-Beautiful office, commented Albus, looking around.
The building only had two floors, and was surrounded by flowers -lavender, mostly, producing a very particular smell-, some even hanging from the balcony or the windows. In contrast to the purple flower, the place was very grey, with only the grass around to bring a glimpse of color.
-It's a family business, explained Grindelwald, when Albus looked at the small plaque with written "Grindelwald" on the door. So you'll be helping with the catering ?
-Jacob and Queenie told me they didn't know what to pick.
-It happens a lot. One time, a client brought their whole family with them -including distant cousins. Have you brought a car ?
-Left it at home, I'm afraid.
-That's alright, we can take mine.
A red, bright car parked nearby, on the grass, and Jacob came out from the left side of the car, opening the door for Queenie, who giggled in response.
Grindelwald and Albus watched, as the happy fiancés came their way.
-Good morning, greeted Grindelwald, shaking their hands. Are we waiting for anyone else ?
-No, Newt and Tina were both busy, they won't be able to come, explained Jacob.
-Then, we'll only use my car, it'll be easier.
He pointed at a grey BMW, right next to the road, and they followed him in, Queenie and Jacob naturally sitting together in the back, while Albus stared at the free places.
-You can come in the front, suggested Grindelwald, adjusting his seat. I don't bite.
-I would hope so, joked Albus, going in.
Even the car smelled of lavender, and he briefly wondered if the owner used it as a perfume or something. There were piles of files in the car door, and he checked that none had fallen when he had entered the vehicule. It all seemed very clean, with the exception of the GPS -grey, obviously-, which was covered with finger prints.
-I got in touch with a caterer that might fit your wedding, said Grindelwald, seeting up the GPS. They're in Liverpool; they'll be waiting for us. Have you gotten my message about the kind of food you'd want ?
-Yes, quickly replied Queenie. Since Jacob has a bakery, we were thinking of making most of the desserts, and order more salty food after that for the menu. Uhm, I have a list...
She started searching into her bag, as Grindelwald left the parking space, carefully going in reverse before driving towards Liverpool Center, passing by dozens of small houses.
-So, since it's going to be the whole afternoon and evening, we were thinking of having two services, with a buffet maybe. I have a list of the guests most common allergies. And... Jacob, what did I write there ?
-Multiple courses, honey.
-Yes, multiple courses! With an entree, the main dish and the dessert for the afternoon meal, followed by appetizers, a buffet, desserts and coffee or tea for the evening meal, she explained.
Albus listened carefully to the list of foods they were planning on having, while looking at the road.
Soon, they entered Liverpool, already filled with people -the threat of rain that day hadn’t discouraged them-, as Grindelwald manoeuvred in the streets slowly, sometimes adding comments or questions to Queenie’s explanations.
Finally, they parked near a huge, whitish building near the port -it was hard to tell the original color of the building, as years had clearly had an effect on the walls-, and went outside.
To his surprise, Albus noticed Grindelwald had opened his door, and thanked him before getting out.
It was windy again, and Albus congratulated himself for thinking of taking his scarf, as they made their way towards the building.
-Gellert, greeted a man, with a slight german accent, as they arrived. It's for the wedding ?
-For the Kowalski-Goldstein one, confirmed Grindelwald. Queenie, Jacob, Mr. Dumbledore, this is Anton Vogel ; he's in charge of cattering.
-Why don't you come in my office, suggested Vogel. You have the informations, right ?
-Yes ! nodded Queenie.
They had to add a chair for Albus, in an office that seemed bigger than his whole house, before starting to discuss the menu, sometimes asking him about his opinion on some dishes. Then, they got samples in the tasting part of the building, upstairs -good enough for him not to regret having to leave his house at 07:30-, commented some more, before finally leaving.
Albus sat next to Grindelwald again, almost knocking his head against his when putting on his seatbell.
-I apologize, I wasn't…
-It’s alright, replied Grindelwald.
He turned the engine on, and Albus noted that he did smell like lavender.
Not that it mattered.
It was just… rare.
-Can I drive you home perhaps ? Asked Grindelwald, as they arrived near his office.
-I’ll be fine, thank you. I live around here.
Grindelwald looked in the direction he was pointing at, and nodded.
-Goodbye, he wished everyone, as they went out of the car.
Queenie and Jacob thanked him and Albus again, before leaving quickly, apparently late to a brunch with some neighbours.
Albus was about to go his way, already thinking of what he could do -he had very little neighbours or brunches-, when Grindelwald called him back.
-Would you like to stay for lunch ?
-Sorry ?
Grindelwald pointed at his own watch.
-It's 1 PM, he explained.
-Right, realized Albus, quickly glancing at the hour. Would I not bother you ?
-I have no work after this, so, no.
A bit confused, but after all, it was lunch time, Albus agreed, following him in his office.
-I should have an already made pizza, I'll need to heat it up, said Grindelwald, taking off his coat.
-You normally eat there ? Asked Albus, imitating him.
-I almost live here. What about you ? You work nearby, don't you ?
-I'm more or less the same. My office is my home.
Everything was very soberly decorated, all in dark or grey tones, with very little furnitures. The table in one of the rooms was filled with papers and documents, that Grindelwald pushed aside to make place for Albus. The opened window allowed him to hear a few birds singing outside, although faintly.
-I'm going to take care of the pizza, said Grindelwald. Make yourself at home.
Albus nodded, looking at the files. Lots of pictures, adresses, names and words that seemed random.
-Tea ? Asked Grindelwald, who had disappeared in what was probably the kitchen.
-Yes, thank you.
Grindelwald soon came back with mugs, handing him one.
-So, what did you say your profession was? Asked Grindelwald.
-I don't think I've said it yet, said Albus. I'm a speech therapist.
-For people that stutter or have lisps?
-And others, yes.
Grindelwald nodded.
-What about you ? What do you do as a wedding planner?
-I meet a lot of clients, in and out of office. I ask them about what they were thinking of for their wedding, their budget, their preferences.
-And you said it's a family business ?
-My father started it, yes, when I was still a child.
He furrowed his eyebrows a little, and took a sip of tea.
-How did you meet Queenie and Jacob ? Grindelwald asked, changing the subject.
-They were a friend of a friend. I met Newt when he was still a teenager ; he introduced me to Queenie and Jacob a few years ago, when they were still in America.
-Ah, right, they’re from New York. But you are from England, aren't you ?
-Ireland, corrected Albus. Came here when I was eleven. What about you ?
Grindelwald smirked, putting his mug down.
-Would you rather hear the short version or long version ?
-Let's hear it all.
-So, I was born in Austria, from german mother, and a romanian dad. But, my brother was from Greece, and we lived in Buglaria until I was sixteen. Then, we moved again...
The sound of an alarm stopped him.
-... pizza, he said, standing up.
Albus followed him with his eyes, before getting up too, asking how he could help.
Even the plates were grey, and they soon started talking more about their hobbies than the wedding itself.
They both had a passion for reading ; they had went apple picking in the last years, but Albus admitted having never went back after he found a huge bug in one of the apples. They had been in the swimming team of their schools, but only Grindelwald had won a medal ("and only because the three best swimmers got sick, were absent that day or gave up midway", he justified). They argumented for a while about whether apple juice was better than orange juice, and came to the conclusion both had their merits.
At 03 :01, Albus finally stood up.
-I need to go, I have to call my brother later, he said with regret.
-Come back whenever you want. By the way, could you give me your phone number, just in case ?
Albus blinked, a bit confused, but gave it to him anyways, and typed Grindelwald's number in his own phone.
-You really only put my last name for my profile, said Grindelwald, noticing.
-What, what did you put me as ?
-Albus Dumbledore.
-It's not much better, protested Albus.
Grindelwald grinned, and Albus gulped down nervously.
-I'll come with you to the door, it's a bit difficult to open, offered Grindelwald.
Albus grabbed his coat and scarf, shaked his hand, before going home, humming lightly as he noticed the wind had stopped.
In the next weeks, he met Grindelwald a few times, either on walks -which they often finished in the other's office, with a cup of tea and biscuits-, or during the wedding preparations.
Still, he was surprised when he noticed him, while wandering in the shopping center, on the fourth floor, at around 4PM on a saturday.
-Hello, he greeted, as Grindelwald walked nearby.
Grindelwald took his earphones out, and smiled.
-Dumbledore, he said. Shopping day ?
-My nefew's birthday is coming up soon, explained Albus. What about you ?
-I need a new scarf, said Grindelwald, pointing at the old, half unknitted one around his neck. What kind of gift were you thinking of ?
Almost uncounsciously, Albus started walking around the shopping center with him, Grindelwald adapting his pace to his.
-Toys, just replied Albus, trying not to get distracted by his shoulder brushing against Grindelwald's. But I have no idea what, and my brother asked me not to buy him yet another fake lorry.
-What about cars? The small ones?
-The kid already has way too many of them.
-Books maybe?
-He's just like his father. You'd have to force him to make him read anything.
Albus shaked his head, falsely desesperate.
-Gifts are hard to find.
-Tell me about it. What about a scarf too? There's a shop right there.
Albus followed him in the shop -a small one compared to the H&Ms and Pull&Bear around it-, looking around, surrounded by colourful shelves and way too many clients. Socks, scarves, jumpers, thousand of knitted clothes. He smiled politely to one of the employee that was asking if they needed help, before joining Grindelwald, who was leaning towards a box.
-What about a knitting set ? Asked Grindelwald.
Albus considered it.
-Aurelius is too clumsy, he ended up saying.
-Aurelius ? Do you write it with an A ?
-It's a family tradition. My parents gave all of us names that started with A.
-That's sweet. What about this ?
He pointed at a range of gloves, each with a different letter, and took one with a small "A" written on it.
-Do you think he'd like it ? Wondered Albus.
-Do you think so ? I'm afraid you know him better than I do, replied Grindelwald, staring at the scarves.
-I'll buy this one. Thanks for the advice.
-You're welcome, answered Grindelwald.
He made a gesture towards the scarves, ordered by colors.
-Which one would fit me the best, in your opinion ?
-What colors do you like ?
Grindelwald gave him a "are you kidding me look".
-Right, grey. Choose a red one to contrast with your clothes maybe?
-Red ?
Grindelwald stared at the collection of red scarves.
-Of course, it is only a suggestion.
Grindelwald grabbed the scarf, a tiny smile appearing on his lips.
-Red it is. Should we go pay ?
And so, while walking out of the mall, Grindelwald had a scarlet scarf, that he kept playing with distractedly.
-How did you come here ? He asked.
-By car. What about you ?
-My friend dropped me of, replied Grindelwald, putting a stray hair back. Do you know if it’s easy to get a cab around here ?
-Probably not, the streets are already filled.
Albus gave Grindelwald a side glance.
-… You could come with me.
-Would that be alright ?
-Why wouldn’t it be ?
Grindelwald gave him a quick look, and it might've just been the cold, but Albus could've sworn he had blushed a little.
Probably his eyes deceiving him.
-Please lead the way, said Grindelwald, his voice sounding a little bit more squeeky than usual.
Arriving at the car, in a dark, crowded underground parking lot, he pulled his earphones out, visibly trying to de-tangle them, as Albus putted his seatbelt on.
-Want help ? Asked Albus.
-My aunt offered them to me this week, and I have no idea how they got so tangled in only a few days, admitted Grindelwald. Unpractical.
Albus extended his hand towards the earphones, and Grindelwald handed them to him.
-My brother has a thousand of those, he explained, as he de-tangled them. And he's never able to take care of it, so he asks me to do it. There you go.
Grindelwald took the earphones with a thank you, and, for a second, their hands touched.
-Let's go, said Albus somehow awkwardly, almost stumbling onto his words, driving out of the parking lot. By the way, you can call be Albus.
-Excuse me ?
-Albus, repeated the speech therapist.
-Right. Call me Gellert then, suggested Grindelwald. It'd be weird if I was the only one calling you by your first name.
Albus nodded, and turned to the left.
The road was way too short in his taste, as they arrived whilst in the middle of a conversation about the new Prime Minister, and he waved goodbye, as Gellert got out.
-See you soon, Albus, said Gellert.
-You too, Gellert.
The first name came out more like a squeek than anything else, but Gellert just offered him a smile, before walking away.
When he was far enough, Albus bumped his own head against the steering wheel, jumping back when he realised that was where the honk was.
Ah. Even alone, he found ways to embarass himself.
He quickly turned the radio on, starting his repeating exercises while driving off.
10 AM.
-What about your girlfriend ?
Albus glared at his client, who blushed at the mention of his lover.
-Sheis, started the client, excited, sheis...
-It's ok, said Albus. You can take it slow.
-She is..., said the client, more slowly. Very...
10 :05.
-She is awesome, finally said the client, the words slipping out of his mouth.
Albus let him talk, as he described his girlfriend, insisting multiple times on how lovely she was.
Troubles articulating.
He did find it sweet, how proud he was speaking of her.
-That'll be all for today, he said, after giving his advices and corrections, at 10 :45 exactly. Have a nice day.
-Youtoo sir, replied the client, before repeating, more slowly, you too.
Albus shook his hand, and accompanied him outside, taking a deep breath as the client left.
-Busy morning ? Said a familiar voice.
He almost jumped.
-Gellert! Are you trying to give me a heart attack ?
-Of course not, said Gellert, grinning, who had been standing near his car the whole time. How's the day going ?
-Fine, replied Albus, althought he must've not been so convincing, considering the frown he got from Gellert. I mean, the first appointment started at 7 AM, so I guess it could be better.
-7 ? Come on, that's nothing, replied Gellert, yawning. Try 6 AM to see.
-You have clients at 6 AM ?
-I had a few this week. I have one more early job soon; their wedding starts at 9 and I need to be there hours before. What are you doing tomorrow, by the way ?
-Few consultations in the morning, none in the afternoon. Do you want to come in ?
-I have to go back soon, winced Gellert. But how would you like to go to a wedding tomorrow ? A lot of the guests won't be able to come, so my clients told me to invite whoever.
-Won't it be awkward ?
-As you wish.
Albus shrugged.
-Maybe. Send me the adress just in case.
-I will.
A car parked near the office.
-New client, noticed Albus.
-I'll leave you to it, said Gellert. Text me if you think of going.
Albus almost regretted having a client right then, but shook himself a bit. Work. He had to concentrate on work.
4 PM, next day. He had finally decided to go to the wedding, buying flowers and cupcakes just to not come empty handed.
Indeed, there weren’t so much people -mostly parents with their children and friends that had nothing better to do-, and the couple -two charming ladies that immediately got friendly with him, accepting the gifts and thanking him for making it to the wedding- didn’t mind him coming. Gellert was sitting at a table, dashing in a dark suit, a lavender tie around his neck, grinning as soon as he saw him.
-Albus, he greeted. You didn't come early enough to see the vows.
-I couldn't come earlier. But the wedding is beautiful, replied Albus, looking around.
Everything was very nicely decorated, with touches of blue here and there, green everywhere, in a big venue -even too big, maybe.
-Won't it impair your work if I'm here ?
-What, are you such a distraction ? Laughed Gellert. I'll try to avoid focusing on you too much.
Albus stopped himself from grinning by grabbing the nearest glass of wine, gulping it down.
-So, how did you organize all of this ? He asked, while Gellert glared at the empty glass, looking half-impressed and half-worried.
Gellert immediately got into explanations about the wedding preparations, while Albus listened carefully.
At 6 PM, the music started, with the mariées leading the dance, with a slow song, before it changed to the macarena.
Despite knowing almost no one, he did have fun, mostly sticking with Grindelwald or striking conversations with old, forgotten great-aunts that seemed delighted to have someone to talk too.
Nighttime was arriving, some of the guests had left -mostly the ones with children-, and Gellert appeared while Albus was drinking yet another glass of champagne, alone now that the elderly ladies were gone.
-Care for a dance, Albus ?
Albus looked at his hand, and, the alcohol having reached his brain -although it clearly wasn’t the only reason-, took it, following him on the dance floor, where a Spotify playlist was playing, sometimes interrupted by adds.
The songs were more slow and low now, and only a few couples were still there.
-I've never been able to dance, admitted Albus.
-Really ?
He felt Gellert's hand on his waist, and almost melted into a puddle, touching his shoulder and trying to look confident.
-Never had the occasion, he explained. My brother escaped every occasion we had of dancing, my mother was busy taking care of my sister, and my father...
He stopped, while Gellert started leading the dance.
-Did I ever tell you about my father ? He asked.
-No, you haven't, replied Gellert, meeting his eyes.
-Oh. Well, he's dead.
-My condoleances.
-Your parents are too, aren't they ?
-Yes, said Gellert slowly.
Albus sighed.
-I'm good at spoiling the mood, am I not ?
-It's alright. I like being around you.
-You do ?
-Why would I invite you if I didn’t ?
-I…
Albus looked down, noticing he had been stepping on Gellert's shoes the whole time.
-Sorry, he said, a bit embarassed. I...
He frowned.
-My words are getting blurry, he said.
-You're drunk, Albus, reminded him Gellert.
-Right.
He looked down at Gellert's lips, briefly wondering what they felt like.
-Albus, called Gellert. You're staring again.
-Do I do it often ?
-Yes. But it doesn’t bother me.
-What bothers you then ?
Gellert just opened his mouth, before closing it, shrugging.
The song changed, and Albus could smell the sent of lavander.
-You really like lavender, right ?
-I have loads of them, admitted Gellert. Lavender in pots, I mean.
-It smells good.
-Thanks.
Albus couldn't help noticing how Gellert was licking his lips to moisturize them, how his eyes were looking at him, the glint in them, the way he made him feel warm and giddy somehow.
-I love you, he said instinctively.
Gellert coughed, clearly not expecting the confession.
-Excuse me ?
-Since the day I first saw you, added Albus.
-You...
Gellert shook his head, a smile on his face.
-You know how to surprise people, don't you, Albus ?
Albus hummed to the music that was still playing on the speakers.
-I do, added Gellert, slowly, love you too.
Albus beamed in response.
After that, they stayed silent, even after Gellert took him home, driving his car -he had come in a cab because his own car was getting repaired, and Albus couldn't drive, way too wasted for it-, searched in his pockets for his keys, didn't found them -turns out Albus had them in the exact pocket he hadn't looked in- and ended up taking to his own house, giving him his bed.
Which Albus woked up in, with a strong headache.
For a while, he wondered where he was, before recognizing the usual grey furniture and his car outside.
He walked downstairs, still in his suit from the day before -his coat and shoes being the only thing he wasn't wearing when waking up-, finding a busy Gellert in the kitchen, eating bacon and eggs, disappearing behind his newspaper.
-Hey, he said, making Gellert notice him.
Gellert put the newspaper down.
-Good morning. Headache ?
-Terrible.
He grabbed a Star Wars cup in the cupboard, filling it with the tea pot on the table.
-Wait here, I'll go get you something, said Gellert.
He stood up, and Albus noticed he was already in work attire.
He came back with a few hangover pills, handing them to him.
-How do you feel, he asked, casually putting his hand against Albus' forehead.
-Like I've got a huge insect in my head that tries to get out, said Albus, appreciating how cold Gellert's hand was. What about you ?
-Definitely better than you, replied Gellert, his hand leaving Albus' forehead.
He sat down, but kept looking at him.
-You should probably sleep today, he added.
-Yes, thank God I don't have appointments until 3PM. Thanks for bringing me back, by the way.
-No problem. I wasn't able to find your house keys, so I just took you there.
Albus closed his eyes briefly, and when he opened them, he found himself still unable to look away from Gellert.
-So, he said in a somehow light tone, now that we have confessed our undying love for each other, can I ask you to go out with me ?
Gellert choked on his tea, coughing a few times.
-So you do remember, he said.
-I've got a good memory, yes, confirmed Albus, amused. Or are you thinking of taking back your words ?
-No, answered Gellert, shooking his head. But you better not do it either.
Albus ended up staying with him until the very last minute, and Gellert even insisted on taking him home, commenting on how the trees were changing and how beautiful the sky was for once, and their fingers brushed multiple times, until Gellert eventually took his hand.
As soon as his consultation was done, Albus was already calling Gellert, just for the pleasure of hearing his voice again.
They didn't tell anyone.
Even when they both started staying in Gellert's office for the night, it being the biggest compared to Albus' office.
-You know what? I finally woke up without wondering where I was, joked Albus, shoulder to shoulder with Gellert as they brushed their teeth.
Gellert finished brushing before answering.
-Progress, he said, putting his thumb up.
Albus let him shave -he himself had stopped long ago, often joking he was going for the Gandalf's beard when he was older-, while putting on his suit, searching around.
-Do you have a spare tie ? Seems like I used all of mine already.
-Look in the third drawer ! Said Gellert from the bathroom.
Albus quickly went through what seemed to be hundred of ties -from black and grey boring ties to purple, green or other colored, illustrated ones- before taking a random yellow tie, putting it on quickly.
Gellert came back in the bedroom, muttering something in bulgarian while buttoning up his shirt.
-Are you ok ? Asked Albus.
-A client just asked me if I could come more early, sighed Gellert, pointing at his phone in his pocket.
Albus helped him with the last buttons, and Gellert rushed downstairs.
-Albus, have you seen my blue file ? He screamed from the bottom of the stairs, already going back up.
Albus looked around, spotting it on the cupboard.
-Got it ! There you go.
-Thank you, love, said Gellert, giving him a quick peck on the lips. I'll leave now.
-Sure, see you for lunch.
Gellert smiled, and waved while leaving.
Albus stayed there for a moment, watching as the car left, before packing his suitcase and leaving, carefully locking the door behind.
It had been two months already.
Modesty and her sister glared at him, surprised to see him arriving at the same time as them, as he opened the office.
The consultations went by quickly -he had a new client, with a slight lisp-, and he ate lunch with Gellert in his own office -pizza, reminding him of some frozen one they had on their second meeting.
-Queenie and Jacob called me today, said Gellert, between two slices. They told me they were searching for a flower girl.
-Still ? Said Albus, surprised. I thought they were going to take Queenie's cousin.
-Apparently not, since the cousin won't be able to come.
Albus nodded, chewing on his slice, before brushing a crumb that was stuck near Gellert's lips.
-By the way, he added, speaking of Queenie and Jacob, should we tell them before the wedding ?
-Haven't we told them already ? Asked Gellert, confused.
-I didn't have the occasion. Have you ?
-No, it wasn't exactly the subject of our conversations. I guess we'll tell them when we see them next.
-Sure.
Albus stood up, having finished his part.
-I've got to see my brother tomorrow, he groaned.
-Would you like me to come with you ?
-I don't think Abelforth and you'd get along. And I can't cancel it now, he sighed, I already told him I had nothing planned.
-At least call me if you need me to pick you up. Or if you want me to punch your brother.
-Gellert ! I can do it myself, laughed Albus. Although he probably would have the advantage again, he added bitterly, pointing at his nose.
Gellert bumped his nose with his finger.
-Your nose is fine, Albus, I promise. I'll go back to my office now, text me whenever.
-Be safe, replied Albus, with a quick kiss.
They... didn't tell anyone, still.
Even on the day of the wedding.
-How do I look ? Asked Albus, his words stumbling onto each other, straightening his purple tie.
Gellert, sitting on the driver's seat, looked him up and down, adding a lavender in his chest pocket.
-Good as always obviously
-Look at you being a flirt, laughed Albus.
Gellert gently took his hand, rubbing his finger on his palm lightly.
-You'll be fine, he said, slowly. Take a breath.
Albus took a breath, looking at him directly in the eyes.
-See ? There are no reason to be nervous. Do you want to repeat your speech ?
-Probably a good, idea, nodded Albus, taking the notes out of his chest pocket. Sorry. My words are jumbling together. No. Mixing.
He smiled, as he felt Gellert's fingers on his.
-I'll repeat my speech, he said, more calmly, articulating every word.
-Great, said Gellert, turning the engine on. We've got forty minutes before arriving, so take your time.
-I will, said Albus. God, I hate stress.
-Does anyone like it ?
Albus repeated his speech a total of four times, before the conversation went towards the last political scandal, that they dissected until arriving.
The venue looked beautiful, set in a field, with many people chattering, a parking lot aside, and huge tents. The weather had been in their favour -very low risks of precipitation- and the chairs had been disposed outside for the vows.
Gellert got out of the car first, squeezing Albus hand before letting go of it, hurrying to talk to the caterers about the last details.
Meanwhile, Albus got into a conversation with Newt about illegal breeding, as they waited for the future bride and groom.
Jacob arrived in their car, covered in paper flowers, under the cheering of the guests. Everyone entered the venue, waiting for Queenie, who had made it very clear she did not want her dress to be seen before she arrived.
Even the chairs had names for each guest, and Albus realised, delighted, that he was sitting right next to Gellert.
Who appeared a few minutes before the ceremony started, exchanging a few words with him -mostly asking him if he was ok and how everything was going- before disappearing again in one of the tents.
The bride had still not entered when Tina rushed to Albus, a basket of flowers in her hand.
-Celestina has disappeared, she whispered. Jacob told me you knew what a flower girl was supposed to do?
-Sorry ? Asked Albus, confused, glancing at Gellert who was coming their way.
Tina handed him the basket.
-Can you be the flower, uhm, thing ? She asked, pleading with her eyes.
-What is going on ? Gellert asked, as the wedding theme song or whatever that's called started playing.
-We need a flower person, Celestina has disappeared, explained Tina.
Gellert and her stared at Albus.
-Yes, sure, said Albus, confused. I just have to scatter the flowers, right ? 4 petals every step.
-Thank you so much! sighed Tina in relief, while Gellert nodded.
Tina left, probably to get Queenie, while Albus stared at Gellert, dumbfounded.
-Am I the flower... man now ?
-Seems like it, replied Gellert, as Albus stood up.
-But aren't flower girls supposed to represent innocence and pureness ?
-Come on, no one is going to ask you how pure you are, snickered Gellert, you'll only need to walk on the venue and scatter the petals around.
Albus nodded, took a deep breath, and went back to the beginning of the venue, with his flower basket.
The wedding march -still don't know what that's called- was blasting in his ears, as he started walking, letting go of flower petals as he walked, until he arrived at the end, to a nervous Jacob.
-Beautiful flower girl, commented Jacob with a small laugh.
-Yes I thought so too, laughed Albus.
Finally, the bride entered, in a stunning white dress, holding her sister's arm.
The walk seemed to take her about a quarter of an hour, but she finally arrived at the altar, smiling sweetly at Jacob.
-Will you, Jacob Kowalsky, was saying the dude in charge, take Queenie Goldstein, as your wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do you part ?
Albus noticed Gellert in the crowd, and gave him a smile, as Jacob firmly said "I do".
-And do you, Queenie Goldstein...
Gellert smiled back, pointing at his empty basket of flowers and putting his thumb up.
-You may kiss the groom, finished the dude, under the cheers of the guests.
After the whole ceremony thing, the guests moved to their respective places at the huge tables disposed in the tents, Albus sitting once again next to Gellert after congratulating the newly wedded.
-Wonderful ceremony, commented Tina, wiping her tears.
-Indeed, confirmed Albus.
He handed her another tissue, feeling Gellert's hand holding his.
The lunch went by quickly, followed by a serie of gifts for Queenie and Jacob, more congratulations, speeches, the dinner, and, then, the dancing.
-Careful with the alcohol, reminded him Gellert.
-Don't worry, I'm not fond of hangovers.
He did dance with Gellert, leading to a knowing look from Newt, confused one from Theseus, and cheering from both Jacob and Queenie, until his feet started hurting.
When came the hour to leave, Queenie finally took her bouquet, throwing it backwards under people's cheering, and Albus busted in laughter when it fell in the unexpecting hands of Gellert, who shot him a confused glance.
After a new round of congratulations, everyone started going home, except for Gellert who still had to look over the end of the wedding, the newlyweds, some staff and Albus, who stayed to talk with Jacob on the parking lot.
-I knew you'd be together, said Jacob, grinning from ear to ear. You and Grindelwald. I mean, Queenie knew, but she told me, so I knew too.
-Since when ? Smiled Albus, looking at Gellert who was talking to Anton Vogel.
-After you met for the first time, actually. Queenie is good at that. That's why we told you to come to the catering.
Albus stared at him, agape.
-That early ?!
-You seemed like a good match, shrugged Jacob.
Albus laughed too.
-Thank you Jacob. I'll return the favor somehow.
-You did it by being the flower thing. Well, said Jacob, standing up, we need to go home now. Good night, Dumbledore.
-You too, Jacob.
Jacob and Queenie left, and he waited for Gellert, who soon arrived.
-And another wedding done, finally said Gellert, yawning. Who's driving home ?
-I will, offered Albus. You seem like you're about to pass out.
-Thank you, muttered Gellert, getting in the car.
Five minutes after Albus started driving, Gellert was already sleeping, snoring a bit, his head on Albus shoulder.
-Thank God I didn't let you drive, he said, smiling.
Gellert whispered something back in romanian, moved a bit before going silent again.
Once home, Albus got him out -with some difficulty, as Gellert seemed decided to stay in the car, groaning about how he didn't want to move- and took him to the bedroom, wondering how Gellert had managed to carry him when he was drunk, before leaving him on the bed to go brush his teeth.
He glanced back at the bedroom, where Gellert was hugging a pillow.
After his night routine and taking off his lover's shoes, he lied next to him, feeling the familiar scent all around him.
-If we get married, we'll make sure it doesn't last until so late, he said.
Gellert mumbled in response.
Albus smiled, and yawned, quickly falling asleep, dreaming of weddings and speeches, pale and dark eyes.