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Penny ([info]clearlypenny) wrote in [info]finnigans_rpg,
@ 2014-10-05 02:25:00

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Entry tags:character: penelope clearwater, character: percy weasley

Who: Penny and Percy
What: Paying up after a quidditch bet, catching up.
Where: Penny's house
When: Saturday, October 4th, evening
Rating: SFW


Much of the day had been spent tucked up on the couch, watching the weather roll on by with a cup of tea and her latest acquisition and a German notebook. A nearby page was filled with written notes, some words highlighted to draw attention to them when she returned to the office on Monday but for now there was just this. The smell of food lingered in the house as she'd chosen to pick dishes that required little attention; tonight was not about spending ages in the kitchen but with her friend and finding out what had happened to have him seeking out lists.

She was as good as her word, a fresh pad of paper and pen sitting beside the bottle of wine and two glasses as the brunette dashed to freshen up. Tucked neatly away were the final proofs for Dorothy's new novel and if Penny spent longer than usual choosing which top she wanted to know then only she would know it, right?
"I'm late, late late late. Where did I put that blasted other earring?" Her voice echoed off the walls as she dashed around, looking for the finishing touches and trying desperately to ignore the clock which read 7.19pm. The house was ready - its owner was not.

Each moment was another reminder that she had a lot to do, fluffing cushions and making a last minute spring the length of the house to turn the telly off as it began the familiar refrain for the news. There was just enough time before she heard the wards announce his arrival for Penny to take a deep breath and remember to smile. It was just dinner, something they'd done a hundred times before.

"C'mon in Percy, the doors open." Her wards would always be open for him.


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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-05 03:06 am UTC (link)
Percy hadn't gotten much sleep the night before. He was the first to admit he was an overthinker, a man who more often than not wanted to look over every possible detail of a decision before making it. With where he was in his life now, there was more to consider than ever before, and his wasn't the only life that would be affected.

Even though he'd gotten up rumpled and sleep-deprived, he'd showered and shaved, done everything he usually did on a Saturday morning when he was alone such as treat Hermes to an extra bite and spend quality time with the Daily Prophet. He'd made himself eat a bite for lunch, but not too much as he didn't want to still be full come dinnertime with Penelope. He'd also had to deal with a floo call from his mother, who thankfully had not heard of Kingsley's offer yet and simply wanted to ask him for ideas for Lucy's Christmas jumper. He doubted she would remember what he'd said - she rarely remembered their favourites, there were so many of them - but he also did not doubt that Lucy would have a beautiful gift that she would cherish.

The weather was far from appealing so he made certain to dress appropriately in a thin but soft blue jumper and grabbed a jacket before he left in case it grew colder (he knew he could always cast a warming charm, but there was something nice about bundling up in extra layers - was this something Muggles enjoyed as well?). He Apparated in front of Penelope's home, a familiar sight if there ever was one, a bottle of white wine in hand. He heard her call out as he approached the door, and with a fond smile, he walked in.

"If it were anyone but you, I would think your security was lax," he teased, holding out the bottle for her. "I hope this will go well with the one you've chosen. A 2001 sauvignon blanc grown in Transylvania, known for its high alcohol content and magical effects. This one, I believe, produces a calming, musical chiming in the ears for the duration that the wine is on one's palate."

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-05 08:20 pm UTC (link)
Smiling as he walked towards her, Penny took the bottle from her guest and reached up to brush his cheek in greeting, unwittingly catching a snatch of the scent he was wearing and something that clung to his skin firmer than the soft, decadent touch of cashmere. "It sounds wonderful Perce though when it comes to magical wine, I as always defer to your knowledge." It had been something of a shock when she had turned eighteen, the realisation that wine in the magical world was, for want of a better word enchanted. All these years later, a part of Penny enjoyed the simple pleasure of magical wine.

"If you'd come to rob me you'd have found little of worth but books and dinner." Placing the wine down on the table beside her own choice, a very muggle bottle of gewürztraminer, she straightened and turned back. "Would you care to do the honours? If you're hungry I can serve dinner immediately or it can wait until we're both ready but I hope you brought an appetite! I went for a few dishes, a bit like a Spanish tapas though the idea of being able to choose smaller portions of a mixed dishes seems to be prevalent in warmer climates for obvious reasons." Being able to pick and choose wouldn't be as appealing when the fare was pie and mash or meat swimming in gravy. "How have you been enjoying your weekend so far? More opportunity for a lie-in or did that tempermental owl of yours wake you up at an ungodly hour demanding you fry bacon for him?" Laughing a little as she mentioned the bird that had nipped her fingers more often than not during their years of communicating.

Her time was his, she had been looking forward to this all weekend. It was an evening without pressure or having to conform to ideals she couldn't even begin to come close to. "Shall we? How is Lucy doing? Crying over the horrible loss the Falcons the other day?' A good natured grin flickered across her features, teasing him both as she started to relax.

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-05 10:06 pm UTC (link)
Penny had always been one of the only two people (the other being Oliver) that Percy allowed to call him by nickname. Others did it anyway, but against his wishes. He resisted the urge to check himself in the mirror in case there had been something on his cheek, her touch having made him feel the slightest bit self-conscious, but he easily shrugged off the sentiment.

"Ah, but your dinner and the wealth of knowledge in your library are priceless." He smiled and approached the table, picking up her bottle first. "Discussions such as these are often done best on a full stomach," he said, pulling out his wand to cast and uncorking spell. "And it sounds like an excellent arrangement."

He poured out the wine, smiling fondly at Hermes' occasional antics that Penelope knew so well. "No lie-in, sleep was too elusive last night. And Hermes did seek out extra breakfast, nearly snatched a piece of toast from my fingers at lunch."

Once the wine was poured, he sat down and waited for her to join him. He was glad she started with more mundane affairs; it would help him forget his worries for a little while, at least. "Oh, she was predictably distraught," he teased back. "Any more distraught and her mother would be wondering what I've been doing with her during our days together." He smirked as he served himself some of the wonderful smelling food. "And yourself? Did you pass a relaxing Saturday? Or at least a productive one?"

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-08 12:34 am UTC (link)
The soft tipple of wine hitting the glass was familiar, as relaxing and calming as the ginger haired man sitting opposite her. Percy's manners had always been faultless but there was a sense of humour hidden behind them that few got to see, fewer still she thought appreciated the dry on point wit. Penny considered herself fortunate that she was one of those rare chosen. "Always thinking of your stomach, Mr Weasley."

There was a certain something to be found in the traditional rituals; the one of sitting down for a meal with loved ones had always been one of Penny's favourites and though she appreciated it on an intellectual level it was the emotional pull that caught at her. "You're always so generous with that bird, he's going to be a flying fluffy snitch before long." It was a long-standing joke, her arm reaching out to fill her plate with some of the food she'd cooked.

"Hmmm, I'm sure she would." Penny was always tight-lipped when it came to the subject of Lucy's mother preferring to keep her own counsel on that matter as she did with his mother. Both for different reasons but reasons nontheless. "I spent the majority of the day curled up on the couch, working my way through a batch of biscuits, copious amounts of tea and a book that required me to think outside the book. It was glorious and rare I didn't have clients on a weekend." Penny had taken advantage of her stroke of luck and dinner with an old friend was the perfect way to round it off. "I kept on following the sunlight, moving this way and that like an old, purring cat. It was wonderful to be disconnected from the world for a little while, so you'll have to keep me updated Percy. On anything I might have missed."

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-08 01:36 am UTC (link)
Percy gave her one of his patended raised eyebrows that only served to frame the twinkle in his eyes. "Of course, Ms. Clearwater. How could I not when your kitchen smells so delightfully fragrant? The fault in the end is yours." Her kitchen was truly a delight to him - not that he didn't enjoy his own, he did indeed, but he never failed to note just how at home he felt there. Or maybe it has always been the company. Yes, Penelope had remained a part of his extended family - though she actually seemed to enjoy spending time with him.

What he had here with Penny, a comfortable dinner for two, was something he had tried to give Lucy because he had never had it for himself growing up. There had always been shouting and elbowing and insults thrown across the table alongside dinner rolls. Now, instead of flying food, he could calmly spoon food onto his plate - something he still relished even after being away from home for so many years. "He can be as fluffy as he likes as long as he keeps delivering my mail, though with the advent of these journals, there may not be much need for that any longer. It is probably for the best; he's getting on in years, after all."

Percy was thankful for Penny's lack of commentary. His situation with Lucy's mother was already quite... complicated. "Now that sounds like a perfect Saturday," he offered with an affectionate look. He had always admired her ability to relax and enjoy lazy moments when few times they came. He was better than he used to be, but he had never quite reached her level of decadence, or at least that's how he saw it. He had a quick vision of her basking in the sunlight like the aforementioned cat and quickly pushed it from his mind before he could think on it too long. He, after all, had many years of practice with that particular push.

"Well, Oliver thinks himself in love with the baker from Sweet Nothings despite knowing her but a month - and was already talking 'feelings' after a week or two. And I don't know if you read the tabloid piece published about them in the Prophet, something about her using love potions to gain his affections." He rolled his eyes. "I've offered to sit with them and give them some practice in dealing with the media. Honestly, how does he get himself into these predicaments?"

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-09 09:15 pm UTC (link)
It was rare for her to have company for dinner, the sounds of another living person filing the house and chasing out the darkest, most empty corners to be replaced with something lighter and more alive. More than that, it was lovely to be able to cook for someone else and when it was one of her closest friends the appeal was all the sweeter. Percy's presence had a relaxing effect on her - it had always puzzled her when classmates had described him as reserved or buttoned up - she had always found him the opposite. Years later, it still held true.

It took a few moments for her plate to be filled with the different flavours and dishes, married with a brightly coloured rice. "You'll have to tell me what you think, this is the first time I've tried some of the dishes but the butter chicken is one of my favourites." Outside the wind had dropped down slightly so the sound of the waves breaking gently onto the surf whispered over their conversation, adding a soft backdrop to the evening.
"Oh I don't know, it was lovely but there are just as nice ways to spend a Saturday. When I was younger, I loved pulling on my wellies and jumping into the piles of crispy autumn leaves or managing to wheedle a hot chocolate out of my parents. I'd bet you've been getting your practice in with those and Halloween is coming up." A flash of mischief appeared on Penny's face before she asked with perfect innocence "Have you and Lucy decided on a costume this year? There was an article in Witch Weekly about haberdashery charms that made me think of you…."

Reaching for her glass covered her reactions, the sound of music filling her ears as she took the first sip and smiled over the rim. "Perfect wine, Percy and as for Oliver well.. He's always done everything with his heart, hasn't he? His love of quidditch, his joi de vivre are all legendary and he's got one of the biggest hearts of anyone I've ever had the pleasure of knowing so in a funny way it makes perfect sense that when he fell in love it would be with everything he had." Penny knew the baker in question by sight - the witch had been feeding her addiction to cupcakes for several months now and it was sweet to think of the burly Gryffindor entranced by her. "I think its wonderful he's feeling this way though I wish he didn't need media coaching, that he could have his private life. What about her? What's your feelings on it, love potion speculations aside."

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-10 01:09 am UTC (link)
Percy took a bite of every type of food he'd placed on his plate. The butter chicken was quite good, but there was one that... wasn't quite to his taste. He kept the wince from his face, however, and kept eating, not wanting to let on that her cooking was anything less than perfect. "You have nothing to worry about, it's excellent, as always."

When Penelope mentioned Halloween, Percy's face screamed don't get me started! "Lucy has it in mind that she wants to be a winged horse. There's a charmcaster named Pandora who says she could do something interesting along those lines, so I'll be bringing Lucy over there sometimes soon. And," he continued, lifting a finger to forstall any interjection from Penelope, "before you even think to ask, no, I will not be wearing a costume."

He sighed, knowing Penelope was right, but Oliver still frustrated him to no end. "I was perhaps a little too harsh with him in my skepticism," he admitted, "but for Merlin's sake, just the week before he met the girl he'd been begging for help with a situation involving a girl he'd woken up with whose name he couldn't remember. I can be forgiven a little skepticism, can I not?" He stabbed at a piece of chicken, something that revealed more than any words could that more than anything else, he was worried for his friend. "She's a good woman, he could and has done much worse. As long as he doesn't do something stupid to mess it up, it could be very good for him." He made a huffing, self-deprecating laugh. "Perhaps I should simply keep my opinions to myself. After all, I'm the last person who should advise others on their love lives."

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-10 05:46 pm UTC (link)
It was too good an opportunity to miss, needling her best friend about the possibilities of being co-erced into a costume. "I wouldn't dream of mentioning you wearing a costume, I'm much happier to sit back and wait for the idea to occur to Lucy. Perhaps something matching, a friend for the horse so it doesn't get lonely..," Good manners meant Penny held onto her composure for a few seconds before the giggle pushed its way out of her mouth and she quickly covered her mouth to muffle the sound. "I'm so sorry Percy, I'm not laughing at you but we both know she's the apple of her daddy's eyes and your fate rests now in the hands of a little girl and an eager charmcaster."

It was endearing, the side of him as a father still seemed slightly at odds with the man she'd known growing up but it fitted. Lucy was a ray of sunshine. Fortunately, all she had to worry about was submitting the last batch of edits and approving a cover before All Hallows Eve; trick or treaters - even the muggle ones- rarely ventured this close to the cover.
"Perhaps but Oliver is - he can become easily distracted and the fact that his attention has been captured by someone who is responsible enough to have a successful, thriving business bodes well for them both. I'd rather it was a capable witch than one of those insipid groupies who seem to think it appropriate to throw themselves at professional athletes."
It said rather a lot about the relationship he had with Olive that the other man came to Percy for advice.

Listening to him, hearing the sound of that noise spoke volumes and her hand reached over to settle briefly over his. " I think you're wrong. Why shouldn't you talk of love? You've been in love, you know the responsibilities of committing to someone every day, to becoming part of a something rather than a singular unit and I've seen you do it with Lucy. Add on to that your advice is always well thought out and measured, I think Oliver is fortunate that you offered your input and opinion and he would be unwise not to seek your counsel."

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-10 08:11 pm UTC (link)
Percy's response to the idea of a 'friend' for Lucy's winged horse was an intense glare overtop of his glasses. "I will have you know that I am perfectly capable of saying no to my own daughter... on occasion. He did his best to continue looking serious, but it was belied by the softening of his gaze. "Though if she does suggest it, I'll know I have you to blame."

He groaned. "Heaven keep us from quidditch groupies. At least any of Oliver's have yet to disappear the players' clothes mid-game like what happened at that Ballycastle game a few weeks ago. What if that had happened when I had Lucy with me?" He shook his head at the thought.

He stilled at the touch of her hand, his focus momentarily falling completely upon her. Even after all these years, she was still the one person who could break through his thoughts and arguments. He moved his hand until it turned face up and gently squeezed her fingers, thankful for her calm and reason. Had his experience really been the same, however? He and Penny had been so young, and then she had left. But yes, there was Lucy, and Percy had learned more about priorities and sacrifice through her than anywhere else in his life.

"Speaking of counsel, I still require yours. It seems that Kingsley would like to send me to be his liaison with the Muggle Prime-Minister, and I have yet to decide if I should accept."

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-10 08:45 pm UTC (link)
As she finished off her plate of food, the spices in the curry mingling through her veins to produce a warmth that spread from her head to the tip of her toes, Penny was content to lean back and give in to the urge to flutter her lashes that clashed with the smirk toying across her face. "Me? I'd be perfectly innocent of all crimes and Lucy would never tell tales."
Halloween was fast approaching and she was looking forward to seeing what they came up with. "With all of her relatives, Lucy might not be able to carry all of her chocolate and sweets."

The details of the Ballycastle game produced a short laugh from the wardsmith. "I remember listening to that on the wireless, the poor announcer didn't know where to look. But at the end of the day its just clothes and most of us have the same body parts underneath them and if it had happened you would have come up with an excuse for them to be like that. Besides," a quick glance at him as she raised the bottle in an offer to top up his glass. "The broomsticks would have hid anything questionable." There were so many jokes to be made about nakedness and quididtch, half of them had originated in Finnigans but Penny kept her tongue. For the moment.

As her eyes dipped down to glance at their joined hands, it was impossible not to think of the past when they had enjoyed the same gesture under or above the library tables. Now she was much older and he wasn't the first boy to make her heart tattoo against her chest. For his presence in her life, she was grateful.
"Percy! Way to bury the lead. Congratulations! Being asked shows how highly Mr Shacklebolt thinks of you! Is this what you were talking about on the journals, being unsure and needing a list? How have you gotten on with that?"

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-10 10:35 pm UTC (link)
"Lucy doesn't need to tell tales when I already know how devious her Aunt Penny can be," he teased. "And thank you for reminding me about trick or treating. I was thinking of asking Hermione to make me a version of her bottomless handbag to keep the sweets in. Otherwise, I would have to shrink every bag one by one. Quite tedious. Will you be serving treats this year? We could always stop by so Lucy can show you her costume."

He knew Penny had a point, but he was terribly overprotective of his daughter. "Nevertheless, there are some conversations I would rather not have with her yet, or at all. Her mother can take care of that," he finished with a devious smirk.

He smiled at her felicitations. Whatever his misgivings, he was quite proud of the offer. "I've been going over options and pros and cons in my mind most of the week. In the end, my greatest doubts come in two areas. First, my family - I would not be able to educate Lucy as I have been at work, and I fear that having to work in the Muggle sphere might give her mother the perfect excuse to shorten my custody. Furthermore, where would she go when I am at work? I cannot ask my mother to raise my daughter. And neither could I even bring Lucy to visit. You've heard her talking, she would not be able to hide that our family is magical."

He folded his napkin and placed it on the table. "The second area would be myself. You know me better than most, and you know the Muggle world well. Do you think that I would even fit in, or would I accidentally create an inter-world incident?"

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-11 09:43 pm UTC (link)
It hadn't occurred to her to get in treats but if there was a chance of company? A little flicker of something warm north of her stomach sprung to life and Penny nodded, her mind whirring of things she could get in that might entrance or entertain the little girl. "If it wouldn't be too much trouble for you both, that would be lovely. Some of my colleagues at the office might know a few spells that Lucy might like. I think it was Myra last year who did something based on Pelluvian wards combined with a floating spell to make figures almost seem as if they are dancing - her daughter wants to be a ballerina. Hmm," Her mind whirring, making a mental note to bring it up in a way that wouldn't cause too many questions. It had been years since she had been out; Helena would be caught up in one of the parties at Manchester uni and Ollie would use it as an excuse to find himself a girlfriend for the night.

The conversation took an interesting turn, one that was best suited for curled up on a couch over glasses of wine but Penny didn't know if her companion was ready to move and she was perfectly content. Percy as a liason was an excellent idea but there were serious drawbacks.
Ones that could have long-term consequences.

"It always puzzles me that there isn't any equivalent of primary schools for wizarding children but why not ask your mum to help a little? She did a great job raising you and your siblings, she's experienced and someone who Lucy trusts? Lucy can't go to a muggle primary, I adore her but you're perfectly right. At best she wouldn't be believed and bullied and at worst..well, the statute of secrecy and all. Have you discussed this with her?" No mistaking which grown witch Penny was referring to with the impromptu nose wrinkle that came with mention of Lucys mother. "Would she be that vindictive? She has work too, surely she could understand?"

Raising her eyes, Penny took in the sight of her friend. Would he fit in the muggle world? In some areas, all too well. "There were men like you in my dads cabinet, government men who were as meticulous and careful as you and good at their job. Scarily good so on that front I'd have no doubt you would thrive but its also a club. People are judged on where they went to school, who their friends are and how good they were on the playing fields of Eton and Gordonstoun. It's hard to break through that and because you're an unknown it might prove..problematic. They have ways of making the simplest task difficult if they don't think you're a 'fit'."

Frustration that Percy might not be able to take advantage of an exciting opportunity due to circumstances beyond his control, the feeling that she couldn't logic this one out for him had her dragging her hand through her hair. "We need pen and paper. And lists, a lot of lists."

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-12 12:39 am UTC (link)
"I'm sure she would love whatever you have in mind." Lucy adored Penny, and Percy knew the feeling was mutual. It brought him great joy to see such caring between two of the most important ladies in his life.

He shook his head at the question of having consulted with Lucy's mother. "No, not yet. You know I'd rather talk to her as little as possible. I don't know if she really would, but the fear is there nevertheless. And as for Mum, her raising and teaching us all is the very reason why I don't want to ask. She has done her duty to us seven times over, she deserves some rest in her golden years."

As Penelope described the government culture she remembered from the Muggle world, Percy nodded, having been worried about some of the very issues she listed. The act of frustration she showed had him smiling fondly despite himself. She was still beautiful when trying to puzzle through a problem, and she only confirmed for him why he had come to her for help. "How about you get the implements and settle on the sofa, and I'll set the dishes to washing themselves. And I'll bring the wine, of course, and should we run out, I'll break out the firewhiskey."

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-12 07:29 pm UTC (link)
"Are you sure? I don't mind helping, you're my guest after all and tonight's about you." Percy knew the way around her kitchen, somewhat. There were days even Penny would swear that her cupboards were enchanted against her but with a nod of her head the brunette slipped off the couch towards the much cozier end of the cottage where a fire was burning merily in the grate. A few flicks of her wand, a quick fluff of cushions and she was happy with how it looked; an enticing juxtaposition against the encroaching evening.

Sitting down, tucking her feet underneath her as her body fitted into the corner of the chair Penny listened to the sounds of her friend bustling about in the kitchen. Nearby, on an end table were baskets of paper, buttons and pens but the latter interested her as she scored a sheet and labelled it pro's and cons. Sometimes the oldest ways were the best.

"I don't claim to know your mum very well Percy but," looking up as she finished writing the headers so that her voice carried through "But she seems the type who would enjoy getting stuck in to raising a grandkid; it must be strange., To go from having seven kids crowding a house to having none. Maybe she misses the noise and mess and life they bring to a place?"

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-12 07:52 pm UTC (link)
"And a good guest helps to do the washing up after their host has cooked a wonderful meal. I'll join you shortly." Once she was away, he pulled out his wandand started the spells that would have the dishes washed, dried and put away. Thankfully, the spells did not require supervision and so he grabbed up the wine bottles and glasses and followed Penelope to the other end of the cottage.

He lowered himself on the sofa sitting kitty-corner to Penelope's chair, years of sharing a seat with a small child drawing him instinctively toward the larger surface. He poured their wine before setting the bottles aside and placed Penny's glass within arm's reach.

"Perhaps you're right about my mother. I won't discount it as an option, but I would like to see what else we might think of first." He didn't mention that he also simply did not want to a further burden on the woman who had already been put through so much grief on his behalf.

"Perhaps we can speak a little more about some of the cultural points you brought up. If I were to work among Muggles, only the PM would know me as a wizard, so I believe I would have to come up with a believable cover story that would not alienate me from the othe parliamentarians."

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-12 08:06 pm UTC (link)
A mumbled 'thankyou' and her attention was brought back to the problem of passing off Percy amongst muggles. It could be done but ensuring he escaped detection amongst the clique of politics was a much harder task.
Her free hand reached down, curling around a socked foot as she realised the charm that usually kept her warm was starting to wear off and she would be relying on the fire for comfort this evening. Not that it would stop her brain from working; not when there was such a delicious puzzle to try and figure out.
"I think - I think it could be done but there would be difficulties. The majority of those involved in politics spend years building up contacts, even the ones who don't go to private schools. It might be plausible of course that you know the Prime Minister from your childhood or you were raised abroad. It wouldn't preclude your ability to become a part of Westminster or Downing Street - do you know which one you would be based on? Downing Street would be infinitely better as the flow of people through there are controlled.,"

It was a problem she was glad Percy had brought to her and something she was perhaps, in a unique position to answer. "A proper c.v wouldn't be hard to come up with, its very similar to working for the Ministry in that regards and you're doing very well there." Writing down some of the keywords she'd raised on the sheet of paper, she pushed it towards him for his input.

An idea struck her, one unexpected and personal but it would certainly open a lot of doors for Percy. "You ah, you can say you know my dad. Knew. My mum likes you, it wouldn't be too hard for her to drop your name at a few of her functions or meetings. Say Dad was fond of you, was trying to coax you into politics and his name - people might be willing to overlook your lack of connections."

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-12 09:10 pm UTC (link)
His lips pursed in thought. "Kingsley said I would initially be placed at Downing street, but that the hope would be to develop relationships with all members of the current cabinet. Of course, that would depend upon the relationship I form with Prime Minister Blair."

He picked up the paper and looked it over, nodding approvingly. "I could incorporate some of these into my current c.v. tweak it to eliminate any magical mention. I do like your idea of having been raised abroad, so we could incorporate some elements from wherever I might have been - Ottawa perhaps?"

He was humbled that she would make such an offer of her familial assistance. "I would not wish to take advantage of the connection without your mother's consent. If I do take the opportunity, I would like to ask her myself, if I may." He reached out to place his hand on hers, quietly offering his support when no doubt she was experiencing memories of the father she had lost in the war. The same happened with him quite frequently whenever he heard Fred's name.

"So, this subterfuge is do-able, and I've a bit of experience at pretence from my own time at the Ministry. Is there anything that you feel I have missed in the consideration?"

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-12 09:30 pm UTC (link)
Nodding at his words, her mind whirred at what was on offer. It was an incredible gesture, one earned through years of hard-work and sacrifice and that others saw it that way. He was a talented man with an innate sense of the mechanisms of government and he would do well in either world. "I can't say I know him but he does seem to have a very mundane collection of ties which is worrying." Skinny flashes of colour always in the same half-windsor knot with a dull suit and shiny suits were a world from pressed ministerial robes. Could she picture Percy in a suit? Tilting her head, she glanced over at him and decided that yes, yes she could.

"That is an idea. Make it easier perhaps on yourself and allude to a boarding school with four houses, time as a Prefect and then Head Boy. You worked hard for those things through school, maybe a few years as an intern or entry level in a department and then..it could all fit. Just change the names and locations and few would question it." Canada was half a world away - all she knew of Ottawa was it was likely very, very cold.

For a moment her mind had taken her back to her dad, the suits and the briefcase that was slightly too battered but a family legend. It had once been filled with childrens drawings amongst important papers. Afterwards..it had never been found. Gone, disappeared as if it had never been. "You're always welcome at our house. If you do decide to go ahead, I can arrange a meeting with mum and if you don't - well, she always did think you were a positive influence in my life."

His hand was perfect, exactly what she needed to dredge her thoughts from the past to the present. It was too easy to get lost there, amongst the heartache. "I ah, yes. What would Lucy think of all this? It would mean a change for her too, wouldn't it? Might even mean later nights or rushed tea and breakfasts. Weekends would become tighter and more important."

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-12 10:03 pm UTC (link)
"Mundane is something I believe I can work with. A visit to a Muggle tailor would be in order, but the newwardrobe is something I would consider more of a pro than a con."

He had worked hard in school, harder than many might imagine. There had been many subjects that hadn't come naturally to him, but with a lot of hard work, he had excelled and met his own expectations. "I know that there are universities, places of higher learning for Muggles after they have finished traditional schooling. Would I be expected to have attended one, or would the internship suffice?"

He nodded. "I would love to see your mother again either way. I always thought she was a wonderful woman, and I should reassure her that it is you who is the positive influence." And she was, though he did not tell her often enough. Perhaps he should more often.

"You have a point." While he wasn't anywhere near ready to make his decision, he knew the final word would be Lucy's. "But I promise not to let my family slide away from me, and me them. I will simply have to find a way to meet the challenge of the position and spend time with Lucy, Mum and Dad, my siblings, and of course you and Oliver." He spoke, never quite realizing that he did so as if the decision had been made.

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-12 10:17 pm UTC (link)
"Yes, sadly. Perhaps something that would suit your strengths and I can pick up some texts on muggle politics or culture that you might be expected to know? The internship would stand you in good stead but if you decide to go for this opportunity then you'll be great and if you decide that its not for you, then that's just a valid decision. Every obstacle can be overcome but don't be pushed into doing something you don't want to or aren't ready for." She'd stand by her friend every step of the way too. Its what good friends did.

As he spoke of her mum, Penny flushed with pride and pleasure. It always made her proud to hear others recognise her mum, the had work she put in and how much she was idolised by her eldest daughter. "You're welcome to tell her that but she might think I've bribed you to say it!" this last was accompanied by a teasing laugh and the pillow she'd been hugging was pulled tighter against her.
It was a link between the past and present but two women could not have been more different than Phillipa Clearwater and Molly Weasley. Both formidable, incredible women in their own ways.

"Interesting tense use there, Mr. Weasley." It was all Penny said on the matter, not wanting to push her luck but she trusted him. Knew that if there was a balance to be found between work and family, he would seek it out and Prime Minister Blair was very, very fortunate with the choice of new liason to the muggle world. "Another drink or is it a night for Firewhisky?"

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-12 11:20 pm UTC (link)
"A few texts would be helpful. We learned a little about the Muggle government in Muggle Studies but nothing very in depth." His eyes lit up as something else occurred to him. "And there are public libraries, I could visit there as well if there is anything else I might need to know." Not to mention he really did love being surrounded by books.

He smiled. "I will simply tell her I am unbribeable, and if that doesn't work, I will have to promise her a taste of Mum's cherry cobbler." It had been quite some time since he had last seen Mrs. Clearwater - perhaps he would bring her some of his mother's cobbler anyway.

He bit his bottom lip at having been called out. He would have to think some more on his own about hisfeelings on the matter, but to say it wasn't tempting would have been a lie. "If you would like me to repay your counsel with some advice of some sort, I would be happy to stick with the wine. If you would rather hear about how Lucy convinced me to be raffled off for a date this coming weekend, then I'llbe in terrible need of a firewhiskey."

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-14 02:33 pm UTC (link)
"I can do that," Reaching for a second piece of paper, Penny made a few notes for tomorrow, reminders to dig out certain texts or look over what was popular; her siblings could help with that since she too, was often a little behind the muggle world. Preparation, research - all areas that she was comfortable with and because it was personal she would do her best to make sure that her friend went into the non-magical world as fully prepared as she could make him. Raising the pen to her mouth and tapping it lightly against the curve of a smile, Penny continued to make notations, circling the odd word here and there before tucking it to the side. "I'll start compiling notes and a reading list for you and get it to you as soon as I can. This is going to be great fun, I've never tried to compartmentalise an entire world before." Indeed, part of her was relishing doing just that and seeing the muggle world from her own vantagepoint.

Rising from her seat, Penny found the firewhisky and poured two generous glasses, turning to raise an eyebrow when Percy brought up the mention of being raffled off. For a date. That implied women, wine, romance - all the things he should have ..

"Your mums cobbler is a potent bargaining chip," reaching over she handed him the glass and then settled back as if prepared for one heck of a story. "I'm rather partial to it myself but first, you'll have to tell me about this raffle. Are you really prepared to go on a date with someone you don't know? What if they're awful?"
What if they weren't..

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-14 07:38 pm UTC (link)
"I'm glad you find it an enticing challenge. And I do appreciate all your help, I hope that goes without saying." Yet it was nice to say it nevertheless. "I have utmost faith in you. You have yet to guide me wrong."

He took the glass of firewhiskey from her fingers and took a nice sip, feeling the alcohol warming him from the inside far more than the fireplace did the outside.

"The raffle dates are completely platonic, I was assured, and that there are no expectations other than that both people share the other's company for a period of time. Actually, Oliver volunteered despite being in a relationship, so I would hope the assurances prove true." He sighed.

"All 'dates' have been donated, and all funds raised will be going to the Fawley Foundation." He made a face. "Which is why I believe Alicia's twins may be the ones to put the bug in Lucy's ear. She was the one who convinced me to volunteer, saying it would help the foundation and that she really wanted me to help. Between you and I, I suspect my mother of having a hand in it as well. I've tried telling her that I've had quite a successful long-term relationship with my job, but I don't think she was as amused as I was." It wouldn't be the first time his mother had hinted - or outright stated - that he needed something more in his life, and no matter how much he argued that he had Lucy and she was all he needed, his mother would argue back just as vehemently. She said she just wanted him to be happy - he said she just wanted more grandchildren.

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[info]clearlypenny
2014-10-14 09:56 pm UTC (link)
Penny regarded her own drink for a few moments before sampling it; she enjoyed the different colours of the amber liquid. How it could never entirely settle on one shade and was like looking into the depths of a dying fire - impossible to resist.
"Gosh Percy." It wasn't the most erudite comment she'd ever made, brow arching at the thought of him even consenting to being raffled off. It was..very bold and brave of him, not something that could be plotted in advance though whoever 'won' him for an evening was guaranteed an enjoyable conversationalist.
Still, it made her bring the crystal to her lips and take a careful sip as the burn flowed through her veins and settled comfortably across her body. There was something very decadent about enjoying a glass of firewhisky besides an open fire on an autumn evening.

"If it's for a good cause, if there is the chance to 'win' an intimate evening with a new confidante on a date that I've never been on before does have a certain appeal. I do believe I might turn up and purchase a few tickets on the off chance that lady luck smiles on me. And," raising her glass to peer at him through its etched design "you should consider partaking in a relationship. You have a lot to offer and your mother is a formidable lady. I do believe that if you don't attempt to appease her she might be forced to take matters into her own hands and do you really wish that? Awkward blind dates with your mum smiling behind you, plotting happy ever after?"

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[info]abidingpercy
2014-10-14 10:27 pm UTC (link)
The surprise in her voice wasn't a surprise to him - he'd shocked himself by agreeing to the raffle and still wondered at his own sanity. Yet the thought of Penny bidding on someone else and going on 'an intimate evening with a new confidante' had something twisting in his stomach. He tried to drown it with another sip of firewhiskey before the sentiment could reach his eyes.

He was bowled over, however, by the suggestion that he consider entering into a relationship. It wasn't that he was exactly opposed to the idea, but he simply did not relate well to that many people, and not many women were interested in men with children. "My mother is a force to be reckoned with, yes, but I doubt she would take matters into her own hands. There are times when I still sense her walking on eggshells, as if she were afraid I would leave the family again. I doubt she would push the matter heself, she'll simply leave the dirty work to Lucy. And as for relationships..." He shrugged helplessly and looked down into his drink. "Perhaps you're right. Though between work and Lucy and my family, my life already feels so full that I hesitate to find room for anyone else. Perhaps for her sake, I should consider it more seriously."

His eyes then lifted, gracing Penelope with a look that was genuine and caring. "And should lady luck smile on you, then I wish you all the happiness in the world. You deserve that and so much more."

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