https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-1688-A-War-Without-Victors-One-Hundred-and-Thirty-Eight-/12580239/
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Chapter 1689: A War Without Victors (One Hundred and Thirty-Nine)
Chapter 1689: A War Without Victors (One Hundred and Thirty-Nine)
"This is an interesting task," Isabelle remarked.
Albert didn't yet know how interesting it would be, as he was currently focused on finalizing the first half of the "Dark Magic Defense Guide," requiring all his attention and leaving no room for distractions.
Nonetheless, Albert was happy for Isabelle, as taking care of little Alice could be monotonous. A little excitement was necessary to spice up their lives, and it was always good to find something enjoyable to do.
"It's finally done!"
Hermione sprang from her seat, nearly tossing the stack of manuscripts in the air in a celebratory "flower shower" to mark the culmination of their months of hard work.
"When do you plan to publish it?"
Cedric also rose from his seat, stretching his arms widely to relax his body. He had been swamped lately, not only with teaching and grading but also with helping to review and proofread the final draft.
"Probably tomorrow. I'll write a letter later," Albert replied, placing the completed manuscript into a document bag and using a spell to make a backup copy for himself. He intended to deliver it in person the following day.
Sending it by owl was an option, but given the immense effort they had all put into this project, Albert wanted to play it safe and hand-deliver the original, even though he would be leaving a copy with them as well.
"By the way, don't forget to attend the upcoming Halloween celebration. I heard from Professor McGonagall that the Weird Sisters will be invited to perform at the school," Cedric said, anticipating Albert's concerns. "It's mainly because Hogsmeade is still undergoing reconstruction, and they want to provide an outlet for students who can't travel there."
"Oh, that's a surprise. Have they finally learned to consider the students' needs?" Albert's expression was peculiar, and his tone was laced with sarcasm.
"I heard there will also be a play and a Hogwarts choir performance at the Halloween party. Professor McGonagall had a song composed to commemorate the victory of the Second Wizarding War, and she wants you to lead the singing," Cedric continued, ignoring Albert's sarcastic remark as he waved his wand to summon a black vinyl record and a sheet of parchment with the lyrics.
"I'm not much of a singer," Albert declined without even glancing at the sheet music. "Besides, I think it would be more appropriate for the principal to lead the singing herself."
"You just need to start it off, and then you can pretend to hum along with everyone else. It's not like the choir needs to be that formal," Cedric cajoled, using a tone one might use to coax a child.
"You think I'd fall for that?" Albert rolled his eyes at Cedric. How could he not know the reality of the Hogwarts opening ceremony and its choir after spending seven years in this castle?
Perhaps due to Albert's firm refusal, Professor McGonagall personally approached him about the matter, saying a lot of things that he found irritating.
However, for the sake of both parties' reputations, Albert eventually agreed to lead the singing, as per Professor McGonagall's insistence that only he had the necessary stature for the task.
Of course, Albert didn't believe this for a second, but he didn't want to create unnecessary friction over such a minor issue.
Nevertheless, this incident only strengthened his resolve to take his family on a world tour the following year, detaching himself from whatever drama might unfold.
"You don't seem too pleased."
Hermione, ever perceptive, noticed the shift in Albert's mood.
"I don't like being forced to do things either," Albert bluntly expressed his reluctance to attend the upcoming Halloween celebration in a few days.
"Then why don't you refuse?" Hermione asked, confused by his hesitation.
"Because McGonagall is the Headmistress, and I'm still a teacher at Hogwarts. We used to get along quite well," Albert said, looking down at the girl in his arms. "Also, it's better to use favors sparingly. This will be the last time, and by next year, when I start my world tour, they won't be able to bother me anymore."
"What if I miss you during that time?" Hermione asked, tilting her head up to kiss Albert's cheek tenderly.
"We can always meet through the two-way mirror," Albert replied without hesitation.
"Will you sneak back to see me?" Hermione asked, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
"Of course," Albert assured, his response bringing a smile to Hermione's face.
"I knew you wouldn't abandon me," she said, wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling him into a deep kiss—a prelude to more intimate moments. However, Albert's passion seemed subdued that day.
"What's wrong?" Hermione inquired, puzzled by his lack of enthusiasm.
"Once she starts working at the Ministry, she might not miss me as much," Albert whispered.
"Why?" Hermione's confusion deepened.
"A change in environment can bring about a change in mindset," Albert explained, patting Hermione gently to signal that he wanted her to get off his lap. "Take Percy, for example. That's one of the main reasons many couples break up soon after graduation. Their feelings change."
"I'm not Percy," Hermione said, a hint of annoyance creeping into her voice.
"I'm just saying it as an example," Albert clarified, shaking his head.
"So, you're worried that I'll abandon you?" Hermione's expression turned peculiar.
"I'm worried that you'll regret it," Albert said, knowing that once Hermione made a vow, she would even lose the right to regret it.
"I won't regret it, ever," Hermione stated firmly.
"That's good because even if you do regret it, I won't be able to help you," Albert said softly.
"It seems like you don't have much faith in our relationship," Hermione said, her dissatisfaction evident. "Or is it that you treat all your lovers this way?"
"That's not it," Albert replied. "They don't need me to worry about them."
"Why?" Hermione demanded an explanation.
"Because there's some degree of mutual benefit in those relationships, but it's different with you," Albert admitted with a hint of self-mockery. "It sounds ridiculous, but sometimes, relationships with mutual benefits are more stable."
"Are you hinting that I should gain some benefit from you?" Hermione raised an eyebrow. "Or do you think we should have a child together?"
"I'm just a little worried about you," Albert said, reaching out to ruffle Hermione's hair affectionately.
"I think your worries are unfounded," Hermione huffed, clearly displeased. "I would appreciate it if you could spend more time with me, though."
"You've already occupied most of my time lately," Albert pointed out.
Hermione's cheeks flushed, and her radiant beauty shone even brighter.
Ignoring his comment, she asked, "How many years do you plan to spend traveling the world?"
"I don't know. Maybe one year, two years, or even longer. Let's just go with the flow," Albert replied with a casual shrug.
"I'm so envious of Isabelle," Hermione admitted. She longed to join them on their journey, but she knew it was nearly impossible unless she was willing to disappear from Britain for several years. And even if she was, Albert probably wouldn't agree to it.
(End of Chapter)
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