Why did he keep storing so much faith in her? After all that she told him to go away - Atlas still wouldn't. He was either a glutton for punishment or...
No, she wouldn't think that. He couldn't possibly. He cared about her and she him but that "L" word. Minerva scolded herself for thinking about such a stupid idea.
Two more tears fell down her cheeks, but Minerva swiped them away quickly. Ridiculous emotions that were so close to the surface these days.
"I'll have to apparate you out because all the wards are up now. If you try to leave, you'll only trigger things off."
She moved away, and grabbed the heavy wool cloak she wore to keep herself protected from the sunlight. It was barely dawn, but she couldn't be too careful.
Minerva placed her hand on Atlas' arm and on Octavius' collar, then moments later they were outside in Diagon Alley. It was still dark, but the glow of dawn was already filling the sky.
"Atlas," she whispered, turning her face and meeting his eyes. Her chin wobbled and she bit her lip for a moment before being able to speak again.
"You know, I don't even know what I want anymore," Minerva choked out finally. Then she was gone again.