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Hello Melanie and tag! :D
This chapter was adorable in all kinds of ways -- Audrey having to deal with her coworkers' curiosity is no situation I'd ever like to find myself in but it was definitely fun to read about :P I did enjoy how Madeleine was basically silent throughout and yet has such a presence throughout the conversation, I aspire to be so powerful in my quiet 8D And Percy's reaction to overhearing the conversation was amazing sdjhsdgsj the poor man does not care what they say about him but only wants Audrey to be well treated! I want to shake him & hug him
Oh I really don't know what to make of that scene with Darcy -- I think Audrey's right that she's struggling in some way to deal with the idea of Audrey and Percy, but the why remains a mystery to me. Is it just that she doesn't like him, or is it more that she doesn't want Audrey to pair off? I am keen to find out :') But in the meantime am glad that Audrey seems to have a handle on things & doesn't seem too swayed by Darcy's dislike.
And obviously that date was adorable :P Audrey's nervousness -- and Vivian's very reassuring "Don't bin the sodding chicken" -- were so cute in the face of Percy's impressed reactions to her cooking. Their kissing was lovely too, and I'm smitten with the way they're both on the same page about taking things nice and slowly. Even if Audrey is harbouring Some Thoughts she isn't going to reveal to her sister! I'm so enjoying the way that you've built them up around each other & how nicely their relationship is progressing, bless :D Looking forward to reading on!
Helloo Melanie and tag! Very excited to come back to this one :D
Aw, Audrey's family has such a good dynamic about them. They tease Audrey so gently but it's also so clear that they love her and want the best for her :') Even Vivian The Instigator! And in turn Audrey might be a bit annoyed with their meddling but it's still so clear she loves them. It's very wholesome -- as is the relationship between her mum and dad, I so liked that little detail about her always asking her husband specifically to get her the things off tall shelves :')) That's her absolute right as a wife and nobody is allowed to interfere with it.
You write Audrey's insecurities so well -- her absolute conviction that she is fundamentally dull and unloveable, oh no. It's something that could come off as overly dramatic so easily but you handle it with this delicacy and groundedness that makes it really believable imo. Audrey's workplace was also very good value, the way that they want to take pot shots at Percy and are seemingly unaware of Audrey's Hopeless Crush, bless them. She's so convinced that she's going to have to weather this disappointment & it only made that interactions throughout (& at the end!!) all the sweeter.
Percy was so good throughout the chapter too! His capitulation to her over the crossword & the way that he reports back to her that he's been nicer to Sanderson, how good. And the way that Audrey finally took the initiative at the end to reel him in for a kiss was excellent, I hope this is the start of increasing self-confidence for her :D
Another lovely chapter, Melanie! So glad I could come back and catch it :D
Author's Response:Hi and thank you!! :D
I appreciate your comments about Audrey's insecurities not coming off as too extra -- particularly being in third person I think it's even more of a potential pitfall, so yay -- I definitely don't want her to come off as someone prone to wallowing and self-pity -- more that she just has these persistent, nagging doubts. Not even something that really affects her day to day life, but that comes up whenever, well, she's particularly interested in impressing someone. :) Otherwise, ironically enough, she's perfectly happy to go through life without really drawing attention to herself.
Percy has just (whether inadvertently or not) cultivated a reputation that precedes him about his personality, and people are always determined to see things that confirm the things they aready think, so I could see it being a total thing, people who don't even know him that well constantly making little cracks about, 'oh, welp, Percy's being a tool again today, lol what is new.'
Thank you for reviewing!! <333
Tag! I’m so here for this update :eyes:
Ugh, I sort of wanted Percy and Audrey to just fall into each other’s arms too. But they both think too much for that to really work. They’ve got to talk their shit out, and now Audrey is an anxious mess again and I am very worried for how this will all go.
Oh, I’m so mad for Percy. He literally did nothing wrong (workwise) and Madeline was SO TOTALLY OUT OF LINE and the SUSPEND HIM??? WITH A BOGUS RULE??? Which, by the way, sounds exactly like something that would happen in the Ministry, so good on you for coming up with it. And it is sort of hilarious to see Audrey get all indignant and tell Percy to fight for himself.
But I also love that Percy took his two days right in the middle of his first week with a new boss. This is like malicious compliance here and I think it’s very Percy.
Ope, I see them starting to fight again. And after all that hard work to talk things out like adults, lol.
Well, I’m glad Audrey communicated what she was thinking, because obviously Percy had no idea that she had decided he didn’t respect her. He’s just being so Gryffindor here. Like, he loves Audrey, and so that means if somebody messes with her, he’s going to mess with them. I get her point about wanting to be supported in her own decisions, even if they’re not what he would choose himself, and I do agree with her autonomy. I just…dang it, I wouldn’t want to just stand around and watch her get pushed down either.
I love how shocked Percy is to hear how Audrey thinks he thinks of her. He’s so blown away by it. Because to him this was just a fight—and it hurt—but it wasn’t exactly personal for want of a better word. But Audrey took everything to heart, and catastrophized everything and now she thinks he doesn’t even LIKE her. Which is ridiculous. Percy wouldn’t go out with a person he didn’t like. He doesn’t have the patience for that.
I wonder how their parents fought with each other. Like I wonder if Audrey’s parents were more chill with fighting, but Percy’s parents were more loud and balls to the wall. I can totally see Molly and Arthur going at each other. And if Percy grew up thinking that was just something that couples do from time to time, but Audrey didn’t grow up with that example, it would make sense why they had such different experiences with this, their first real fight as a couple.
LOL I LOVE THAT HE’S TELLING HER SHE’S THE LOVE OF HIS LIFE THROUGH GRITTED TEETH IT’S AWESOME!!!
And I love him laying out his case for why he loves her and like daring her to dispute it. This is so Percy. And he’s like low key proposing to her??? I am deceased.
Okay, knowing your headcanon about Arthur and how he got his current job at the Ministry, and seeing the parallels here with Percy taking a step down and sideways for Audrey—wow. Just wow.
“Bill’s bloody perfect, but you learn to accept that like the rest of us.” LOL
The way you wrote the make-up kissing was so sweet. I loved the bit about how the shaky hands. Just delightful.
AND NOW SHE’S MOVING IN?????
I’m really impressed with how you got these two idiots back together. Really well done!
Yours,
Noelle
Hi, hello, my friend. The coworkers have left me alone long enough to take a break to read this and share my thoughts (and feels, if we're being honest, it is MOSTLY feels xD).
"Because in that moment it hadn’t felt like any of it mattered." Aww sweet kids. Of course, the opening is very lovely from the standpoint of "forget it I fucking love you, you idiot!" Except, of course, you put it far more eloquently like that. Still, that thought came to mind.
"Navy blue windowpane." GOD DAMNIT MELANIE. Is it MA'AM moment? Maybe a wee bit.
HAND KISSING. OH. OK. That's how we're doing this. (Seriously the air knocked out of my lungs in that moment).
*See the emoji life/death cycle in Discord* for any future curiosity about my true feelings about all of the subsequent moments because I really can't say anything more about them because I am a FREAKING MESSS.
See, what you have done to me?
Aww, they can't eat. Babes. I love them. :pleading face:
Also nice little magical clearing of the table and wine interference by Percy. I kind of hate how easy you make it all sound/look. And by hate, I mean love, of course, you brilliant bastard lol. <3
"Not once had I allowed myself to consider the possibility that Percy might be eyeing a transfer as a way to protect our relationship." Me either, but my face is just "DAAAWE."
“I’d really thought you were doing it to get away from me.” OMG :cries about it:
"Finished with you," LITERAL JAW DROP, MELANIE. LITERAL. JAW. DROPPING. IN THE MIDDLE OF MY OFFICE.
“If you’d like to call me a liar, just call me a liar.” OMG NO. STOP THIS AT ONCE, SIR.
Omg its absolutely the worst when you start crying in the middle of an argument. Absolutely the worst. Are you surprised to learn that this is me lolz?
Percy interjecting with these low, dulcet tones...oh my big fat face is a pleading emoji. Oh my heart. Oh dear. Oh no. Oh emotions.
OH MY DARLING....I LOVE YOU NOTHING MATTERS MORE THAN YOU.... FUCKINGGGGG :sobbing, pleading, skull death emoji combination:
“Have you ever rowed with you before?” LOLZ ok absolutely necessary for the laugh cry interjection here. We needed it. Thanks, now I can breathe a bit again.
“You’re the love of my life.” UHM EXCUSE ME? FUCKING EXCUSE ME? MA'AM. HELLO MA'AM? YES, YES YOU AT THE KEYBOARD. YOU CANNOT JUST DO THIS TO ME. :sobbing, pleading, skull death emoji combination:
"You’re who I want to spend my life with.” :stares into the camera like in the office because I am so emotionally depleted by the loveliness of this story that I don't know what feelings actually are: That's not an ironic stare. That's an "oh boy, this is emotionally beautiful and they're beautiful and I have no more feelings left in me because I have given them all to Percy and Audrey and this moment," stare.
"Part of me wanted to endlessly replay everything he’d just said to me, and the other part was queuing up all the worst case scenarios." Hardcore relatable. I do this too. Bless my husband for dealing with it.
OH FUCK... WITH THE KISSES....YOU REALLY WANT ME TO DIE TODAY, DON'T YOU?
Ok, good they needed this conversation. I believe you alluded (ages ago) that Audrey would have a "come to Jesus moment," about the Weasley's and them being all "ridiculously big personalities," and her being her. So I am glad to see that that moment is finally here and it's happening like this because it's a lovely restore of confidence both for her personally and for her relationship with Percy. Beautifully done, my friend!
THERES THE FUCK. YESS. It hit well. Go you!
“You don’t usually use words like that with me with your trousers on.” ACT TWO OF COURTNEYS JAW DROPPING AND HER HAVING TO PICK IT UP OFF OF THE FLOOR JUST COMMENCED.
Awww...ohhh...I just audibly whimpered at the "move in," remark. Awww....oh....oh...ohhh....:pleading face:
GIVE ME THE SMUT. IMMEDIATELY. THANK YOU. GOOD DAY TO YOU MADAME. (This has moved past a MA'AM situation, I think).
Wow, sorry about the state of this review LOL.
<3 Courtney
Oh hey! (Tag). Chapter 27, I've been waiting for you!! <3
I'm not sure my review will do this chapter justice, because I spent the first paragraph just GUSHING over the adorable way in which they meet up at Percy's. I can totally understand Audrey's viewpoint to begin with; in the heat of that moment, it's all too easy to forgive and forget EVERYTHING that went before and to pretend it never happened, but she's a girl of integrity and she needs to have things laid out on her plate so she knows where everything is, so to speak. And Oh Hai, anxiety, because that's a talk which could well upset the whole damn apple cart again, just as her heart is convinced it's back with Percy's again. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster!
I had to Google 'counterpane' by the way. I know you've mentioned it before, but I have no fashion sense, so...anyway, very nice :) And I've also just learned that angel hair is a variety of pasta. School day every day <3
NOW FLAILING WILDLY. I simultaneously want to hug the pair of them AND bang their heads against the wall. Especially Audrey for having aaaallll the self-doubt in the world, and Percy for being a man and just seeing everything from a male viewpoint (yeah, I know he can't help it but...but...). That conversation was so real, and the dialogue as always was bang on...AND NOW THEY ARE BACK TOGETHER AND AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH <3 <3 <3
SO many genius lines in this, but I'm not going to start quoting them back at you because that'll be like reciting the whole chapter. Just
SIGH
The world is in its rightful place in the Universe once more, and Percy's counterpane is OFF
Sorry for the incoherence. Normal service will resume next chapter. Ahem
Pins x
Hi Melanie, back for another great chapter :)
It is so interesting to hear Percy's voice through Audrey. It really highlights how distinct you've made their characters. And it gives insight into their upbringing, and how different their fahters' experiences in the Ministry were. Arthur was a Pureblood who knew basiccally what was going on the entire time, but couldn't tell Percy for fear of being exposed. And Audrey's father was merely trying to save their family from being persecuted. It's all very unique to each family, and interesting to consider. I think that Audrey is realizing (with the help of Vivian) that there were a lot of ways to be right and wrong in the war, and at least Percy is admitting where he was wrong. And she is right, he's no saint.
I am glad Audrey is taking a step up and caring more about her work! That is always nice to see, especially from someone who wasn't especially passionate about her work at the beginning of this story. The Ministry should know by now that sticking with the old ways because they work and people might get mad is not really a godo way to progress with the times, but we digress. Especially after all the shady stuff with the Elder Wand and Gregorovitch and Ollivander himself...they could stand to add a few more regulations lol.
Woot yes! Madeleine to the rescue! That's actually really satisfying, having them apart from the men in their office. Sometimes you don't realize how stifling the presence of men/male characters is until they are gone (or maybe that's just me lol) Either way, I like them together! Even though they...don't? Love that for them, too :)
And then in this last section, it is super like Percy to push Audrey to go further with her investigations and gut feelings. I like that a lot, because I think it will give them room to re-grow and trust that was lost (or misplaced) after Percy's confession-ish thing. I cna't wait for them to sit down and talk about everything again!
Until next time,
Catherine
Hi Melanie!! I am here for the tag and for ANSWERS
AHHH The anticipation and nerves that Audrey feel are also exactly what I am feeling. I would also be totally upset about feeling blindsided by a secret, but she also has to understand that Percy has a lot of trauma that might take time to upack. Scratch that, will take time to upack. Ack, and that little weird meeting in the lift does not help at all, nor does Ron's questioning.
Lol I kind of love Mona and Gerry and I would like a spin-off where they are battling for customers and fall in love. Or some wand-making battle. Either way, they seem interesting enough on their own. And I also like Audrey's disinterest in having her wand read by Ina, whose application of matchmaking to wands is very exclusive to wizards and witches, as she points out. It makes sense that they want to keep their wands a secret, but come on! Help a girl out!
Wow..that was very difficult to read. I don't know what it is aobut your writing, but it always gets me in the gut. The line, "he annoyed me," will literally haunt my nightmares. I am crying, just so you know. <3 But also, Audrey's reactions are so metered and real, not dramatic, just how she would be reacting, I think. I feel so much for Percy, but you also do kind of feel conflicted. How do we forgive him? Of course, we know he regrets it. But when is regret enough? How does he repent for even just his own sake? You've given him a lot of depth here, and a lot for her to consider.
Thank you again, so amazing
Catherine
Ahhh Melanie what are you doing to me!!
I totally was down the entire chapter for a story full of morning afters, dinners with parents, and nights together. And then Percy...what is it he is going to admit to Audrey??
It starts off so lovely, with Viv and Audrey in a banter with their mother on the phone. Everyone is so happy and fluffy, though I suppose that can only ever last for so long. I can't believe it has been three months of them together, either, it has all passed by so fast. And the dinner scene is wonderful, too. Audrey's parents don't seem too hard to please, mostly just caring if Audrey seems happy, which of course she does. Just that one moment where Percy mentions Fred, which Percy talks about in a very brave way. I like his explanation to Audrey about how this is his life, being a Weasley, and he is used to it.
I really need to know what he is feeling so private about? I think it must be something to do with his work for the Ministry during the war, but I can't really be sure. And also this chapter really makes me want to see Audrey eating dinner at the Weasleys lol. But don't give up hope, Audrey! He does love you, too <3
Catherine
HI! I usually review as I go, but something just struck me, and I wanted to read this without having to flip back and forth between writing and reading. And boy was it worth it!
Firstly, I still love Vivi. I also feel lile you set us up really well for the conclusion of this chapter with that conversation Adurey has with her dad. It's like semi-approval of Percy, subconsciously, from her father. And him asking when she will invite him over, it's almost like he is agreeing that this is a good thing for her and he approves (not that Audrey needs it or would ask). But Audrey is generally cautious, and to have some sort of agreement with her father seems like a helpful step in moving forward with what she wants.
Also yay, I love Quidditch :) And that NECK KISS at the match was really too much. I am glad Percy took that step, because it definitely moved along their relationship. But it is too soon for the lovebug Audrey!!I am definitely glad that she didn't say it. Not that Percy wouldn't say it back, but because she would be regretting it certainly, and Audrey doesn't need that stress. All she needs is knowing the sunburn freckles on his shoulder ;)
What a great chapter <3
Catherine
YAY! Big tag opportunity :)
And also yay, Moira is back and confronting Audrey for not following up on the boys front...too busy with Percy, I guess ;) Lol get out of here Cornwell, you're annoying (sidenote: I worked in a town called Cornwall, and it takes everything in me not to type that instead) Moira is as snappy as ever, and Cornwell is just annoying and in the way.
I wish Madeleine was a little more understanding with Noah if he really does like her! Though perhaps that is just her personality, and has nothing to do with Noah at all lol. In that case, continue on, Madeleine. Oof, that line by Noah. I don't think Audrey wants to hear that Percy is mean when she's not around...what will this mean for them? Oh gosh, that display of incompetence is not what Percy needs right now. And wait...was that little quip with her father about unicorn tail wands actually a new plot point being born???
Aww, I really liked this little dive into Audrey's brain. And Percy's a little bit. It is a hard thing to grapple with, life's realities, but we all have to do it, I guess. LOL thinking of Percy as a teenager aspiring to work at the Ministry is almost like a throwback for myself! So funny to think about how people change, but sometimes they really don't :) if that makes sense
Anyway, thanks for the great chapter, Melanie!! I love where they are headed
Catherine
Hello and tag again! I am so looking forward to Audrey & Percy's date :D
Oho, a title drop! I'm glad that Audrey doesn't succumb to irrational impulses this time around. She is so nervous for her date! You get that across very well I think, and obviously I find it very sweet :')) And it even impacts her work output! That's how you know it's serious :P I imagine that Percy is similarly nervous even if it doesn't quite seem that way to Audrey's eyes, bless them
Aw, and you write the dynamic between them so well - the mutual awkwardness, the insecurity on both sides, her absolute conviction that things are going to go terribly, but ultimately the way that they can work around those things to find something better. Poor Percy's start-stop explanations of his work - it makes so much sense given what we see of him in canon & the way his family teased him for it, that he would be insecure about his deeply nerdy hobbies. And in light of that the loveliest thing Audrey can do is let him ramble on - I already so like the way they interact with each other, bless :')
And I can't help but notice how much more animated Audrey gets when she talks about Vivian, bless! And how Percy warms when he's talking about his family and their Quidditch obsession - they are adorable, both of them. Audrey deciding that it is pleasant to feel small next to her man... she is Correct. I am glad their date went well! And that they are both looking forward to seeing each other on Monday. "As certain as I was that he couldn’t possibly be feeling the same" Personally I look forward to Audrey being proven comprehensively wrong. Another lovely chapter, Melanie!
Isn't that always the way of time? When things aren't good, it seems to lag. When there's something potentially difficult on the horizon, it fast forwards to bring the fateful day upon us.
The Wizengamot scene is so well set-up - I feel I'm there, ya know? All the details about the seating arrangement; the influence of certain members; cases taking longer than expected; how everyone probably turned to look when Robbie came crashing in, haha; the fact that Robbie finds it boring - he and Percy are not a working match made in Heaven at all! - and isn't going to bother staying; and then...Percy.
Oh. Percy. Audrey knows what suit Percy would be wearing under his grey robes. You know, beech pairs super well with elm, mm-hmm.
Had Audrey been asked to stand and speak prior to the case, would she have found the whole thing much too intimidating and lost confidence in herself whilst talking? It's fascinating that she's put on the spot here and she rises to the occasion; some people do. Maybe the thought of something is worse than the action itself. I mean, it was pointless Dibble carrying on when Audrey was having to feed him information over his shoulder - he was right to step back and allow Audrey to take over.
Ha. HA! Audrey got Fawley good and proper there, calling him out on his rude interrupting, without actually calling him out. And earned herself Madam Chesterfield's respect in the process. Excellent work, Audrey! Aw, Dibble coming to her rescue, but she doesn't need him, not really; YOU'VE GOT THIS, AUDREY!!
And - aaaaahhhhhh!! - the ending of this chapter was PERFECTION AND I HAVE MY PERDREY BACK AGAIN!!!! *SCREAMING*
Please write more <3 <3 <3
Pins x
Hi Melanie, back for a tag and more Paudrey squeeing!
Haha I love how Lionel is the one to break it to the office, so fun to have such a chill boss. And the description--he is almost human around you--so funny. I wish other people could appreciate his quieter personality :) They all just want to share in your joy, Audrey! Yes by being very intrusive, but I'm sure it's with care. And really, she'll have to get used to prying with the rest of the Weasley family in tow. That little aside between the two of them is so cute!! It really makes my heart go mush, and makes me want to see Audrey 'sozzed', too :)
Aww, I wish Darcy could be a little more friendly towards Percy! I wonder if anyone will be happy for them, though it might take a bit of time. I'm sure that Mrs. Weasleey will be happy to meet Audrey, at least. Also...does Percy have any friends? Like I get that he is standoffish and poncey and all, but just one friend? :( We also only get it from Audrey's pov, so that doesn't help, but I want someone to promote Percy!! Team Percy!!
A home date! It's so cute, and I love their little banter and their collective bundle of nerves. Percy seemed a little more relaxed, but it is Audrey's place. They are so cute together, and I feel like Audrey definitely wants more by the way just his gaze makes her nervous lol. I didn't want Percy to end that kiss either, but is he anything but sensible? And that last hint from Vivi...of course she is keeping her true feelings a secret, what doesn't Audrey keep close to the chest? I love them at home together! especially Percy, who is so much more chill outside the Ministry in general. :)
Thanks again!! I hope to read more soon <3
Catherine
Hi hi!! I am really excited to get back into this
Also I really love the title for this chapter, it just seems like the epitome of a deflecting sentence about someone you are beginning to like :)
Yes, Vivi stir up the drama! I do know what Audrey is feeling, though. I like to keep my things compartmentalized until I can fully understand them myself, too, and I would be annoyed lol. I like how you sort of add that thing about unicorn hair also being unstable. It kind of rmeinds me of the older generation sticking to their ways, and the younger generation pointing out things that are either the same deal or very similar between generations, if that makes sense :) But they reconcile, as good sisters tend to do. And what a cheeky little tea cup!
Aww, Audrey is so sweet. I do think she is a little oblivious, but means well. She knows she likes Percy, but just doesn't want to overstep. I'm sure he feels the same, though she is not convinced. I had become very attached to the Buddy Holly look and was not entirely sure I approved of its unceremonious disappearance I love this sentence, it's so cute a like a little loving gripe <3
Ooohh, something that Audrey doesn't love about Percy, how ruse he is to Saunders. I like this. It's great to see the flaws in love interests, and I like how Percy responds, though I hope he truly means he is sorry for how short he was. AH Lionel, no don't mention flirting that's too much. I love it.
AHAHAHAH this was insane. I totally didn't see that coming, but I have to hand it to Audrey. She's got him. And also I have to hand it to Vivian, who defintiely helped push Audrey in the right direction. And maybe even Lionel, lol. I like how he did a little call back to the Saunders situation, as decency seems important to Audrey. <3
So glad that this was the chapter I got back to!!
Catherine
Hello! Back for another roound of tag :)
The description of Vivian in a hoody as a 'peevish turtle' is brilliant, haha! And I can testify - a day without rain in Derbyshire/the Peak District is, in fact, a 'nice day'. Ten degrees is practically summer! The contrast between how Vivian and Audrey process their grief over their break-ups (and other events) - not that I'm convinced Audrey has properly broken up with Percy, but that's by the by - is well done; Vivian largely remains inactive, Audrey needs to have something to focus on. And marking kids' homework must be good for a laugh, if nothing else; kids say the strangest/funniest things in all innocence.
Car journeys are perfect for quiet time, or doing some thinking, or for a heart-to-heart with your Dad. <3
Poor Audrey, running into one of her exes (the least offensive one) during this moment of relationship strife. Potentially an awkward moment, but instead it was quite sweet and seemed to give Audrey some closure - she's pining for Percy, after all, and Bobby is happily with someone else, after his proposal fell flat. And there's no hard feelings between either of them. I think that's lovely. I have to comment on the child's name of Meera, because it's my name, and I rarely find my name in fics! Vivian looks at things rather cynically, that Bobby moved on so quickly after Audrey, which seems to suggest that his feelings for her weren't genuine? But I like to think they were; it's just as Audrey said - Bobby knew what he wanted out of life and maybe he just happened to find someone else he loved not long after splitting up with Audrey. It happens. not everyone pines for centuries before finding a new partner. And I think Bobby still feels some affection towards Audrey; he wouldn't have greeted her so amicably if not.
Sheila...I can't quite decide what to make of her yet. It's clear that Bonnie hasn't really taken to her. The fact that she's re-checked Percy's work makes me think she's an utter control freak micromanager who would be a nightmare to work with/for, but I'm prepared to have my opinion swayed, should evidence arrive to the contrary!
Laura, on the other hand, appears to be irritating and obstructive just for the sake of it. Or maybe it's because she doesn't like Percy?
Oh dear. "One of your disappearing acts". Not a good choice of words in the circustances :cringe: but Audrey didn't know; she made a snap judgement on what to say based on what she perceived. And Ye Gods, that must have hurt him, especially after he left Audrey a note. I men, she's usually pretty well organised, so he possibly presumed she was making the comment AFTER reading the note, I dunno? Which makes it incredibly hurtful for him.
This angst is PAINFUL. And I demand that you resolve it immediately. I want my Perdrey back :CRYING:
Please update this story soon!
Pins x
Tag!
I'm almost up to date with 'Irrational', so I'm taking my time and savouring these last few chapters :cry: Poor Audrey; I can sympathise with her over feeling the urgent need to call someone, then calling them and thinking 'wtf have I just done??' But I think hermione is a good choice; close enough to know the family and work situation, distant enough from Audrey to be objective. And it's typically kind of Hermione to recognise Audrey's distress and invite her over immediately, even though she (Hermione) is still de-stressing from her own working day and hasn't got past getting out of work clothes etc.
Wine is a good choice, haha! And Ron's lascivious entrance into the kitchen had me howling with laughter, and the way that Hermione smoothed over Ron's potential foot-in-mouth moment just said so much about their relationship. I love how you show us this with actions and dialogue rather than describing outright. And I love how Hermione is so non-judgemental and the parallels she draws between Audrey and Ron when it comes to ambition; it's also such a creative way to show how it's actually fine - desirable, even - to not be overtly ambitious and doesn't mean one lacks drive or conscientiousness in their work. Great moral in there!! Hermione is very good at not taking sides or being afraid to tiptoe around Audrey either as she does point out the positives and necessities of what Percy has done, even if he didn't exactly go about it in the best way...
I liked seeing how Hermione had probably helped Audrey to rationalise things, when she moderated her statement from one which seemed a bit accusatory, to one which sounded incredibly impartial. Maybe that's also her own character's guilt and love for Percy, for not wanting to direct the blame too?
But there you go again, shattering my heart, because that interaction between Audrey and Percy was painful and seemed to enhance this trench that's appeared between them. It makes a resolution harder to envisage. This sentence:
“Audrey, if you think the worst thing that happened to me on Wednesday was being embarrassed, we are on entirely different pages.”
So cutting, and a little condescending, and packed full of hurt. I'm not sure I can take this angst for much longer :WAIL:
Ah. I wondered when the break-up between Vivian and Michael was coming, because there were aspects of the relationship that just didn't seem quite...right. The topics of conversation and the way that Michael seemed a bit self-absorbed at times...and OMG, when poor Vivian goes through the trauma of losing a patient, the last thing she needs is for someone who's supposed to love and support her telling her to effectively 'get over it'. Those deaths stay on a clinician's conscience and can end up destroying their careers (or them). Nah; he's better off gone. Off you ***, Michael...
When times are tough, there's no place like home (Dad <3 )
Another amazing chapter!
Pins x
Oh gosh :((( I had my heart in my mouth reading this chapter. I find reading confrontation about as hard as coping with it in real life. Testament to your incredible writing skills that this felt so lifelike.
I feel so sorry for Audrey as this seems a lose-lose situation whichever way she looks at it or tackles it. If she had listened and obeyed Percy when it came to securing her documents, she loses a bit of herself by kowtowing to his demands. If she acts on trust, like everyone in an office should be able to (ha!), then she's taken advantage of and feels like a doormat. And Percy went above her head/behind her back because he felt it was the right thing to do, but that undermines Audrey too. And now we have this potentially terrible situation where Madeleine has completely flown off the handle (quite inappropriately considering she's the cause of all this) and is having it out with Percy. And words are thrown. Hurtful ones. Especially the ones directed at Audrey by Madeleine (I think she meant to hurt Percy with them but managed to strike a double and get Audrey in the same shot). So cheap of her. I'm not sure what Madeleine's hoping to achieve, because nothing good ever comes of opening your mouth and that level of diarrhoea spilling out :(((
And ugh, it opens up a MASSIVE can of worms for Perdrey too, because Percy is hurt, and Audrey is also all kinds of hurt. And it's ended horribly. I'm both fascinated (and scared) to see how they will repair things from here, because some awful things were said that will take a lot of going back on.
Can Hermione help???
Amazing chapter but WAAAAAAAAAHHH :((((
Pins x
Author's Response:I'm super glad it was apparent to you how Percy is hurt as well here. One drawback of the 1st person POV thing, you can't always be obvious about what the other character(s) are feeling or thinking. But I really wanted a conflict here that is balanced in the sense that you can see why each side is angry, and I'm glad it worked out here! Yeah Percy has some 'splaining to do about his actions, but also he was absolutely humiliated in a way he shouldn't have been (Madeleine just kind of went scorched earth since she figured her number was up and she h a t e s him), and after all that, Audrey doesn't even offer any sympathetic words because, understandably, she's humiliated and pissed off as well. They each just couldn't see past their own hurt. And these things always tend to escalate, don't they? Until you hardly even remember what the original issue was, it's just all wordplay and defensiveness and arguing about how you're arguing.
I both loved and hated writing this chapter. But it had to happen -- at its core it's the big question of compatibility and values.
Thank you for your continuing love for this story and for Perdrey. :)
<3
Uh-oh. Plagiarism is just NOT ON, and to do it so blatantly is rather idiotic, although if Audrey hasn't got the original document to hand, then it might be harder to prove; it's just one person's word against another. No wonder Percy's mad - and I want Audrey to get angry too! It's her work, SHE should be taking the credit, and instead, she's coming up with reasons why someone might have submitted pretty much all her research, original thoughts and information under their own name.
And - oh. Audrey had already read - and 'approved' the document that Madeleine presented her with? Was it a fear of confrontation that stopped her from saying something - although I'd expect her to show some anger if this was the reason she kept quiet - or did she honestly believe that Madeleine arrived at the same conclusions that she herself did and it IS Madeleine's work, or is she too shy/embarrassed/fearful of consequences to take the credit and relieved that Madeleine is running with this whole thing...or what??
You know, I'm glad someone thought to involve Demetrius in this little "mix up", as Audrey seems to want to refer to it as. Because plagiarism really ought to be called out and the perpetrator's name removed from the credits. Poor Audrey - I felt her discomfort as she told the truth - because what else could she do? - and promptly dropped Madeleine in it. That's not a nice feeling to have. But Madeleine brought it on herself.
Now, the burning question...has Madeleine been SACKED??
Loved this chapter. It gave the reader plenty of insight into Audrey's character without making any particular statement, and also highlighted just how much respect and love Percy has for her, because I think - as Madeleine does - that he was behind the revelation.
And there's only a few more chapters left for me to read, so I might take my time and savour them slowly, before I'm left bereft
Pins (Tag if I got there in time!) x
Author's Response:Ahhh yes so we have finally discovered Audrey's fatal flaw, this lack of ability to stand up for herself when she really needs to. She is conflict averse in the extreme.
(Quick clarification -- when she mentioned she had already read it, she read it after she returned to work and learned it had been submitted by Madeleine -- she'd have gone a got a copy of it, like Percy did here -- it being a public record because its proposed new legislation.)
Audrey is very good at rationalizing things to herself, and is really doing an impressive job of convincing herself that this was all a big misunderstanding and Madeleine didn't mean to wrong her and that it really doesn't matter because Audrey doesn't care about acclaim anyway. Also she feels a little stupid.
Thank you for everything! <3
Hello again and tag again!
Loving the Ministry's shambolic structure, it feel so on brand for wizards. "Just put it there, it'll be fine" is a real mood but I can only imagine the absolute chaos it would lead to if it was the defining principle of workplace architecture. And I am equally loving the awkwardness that Audrey is so swamped by - but it's hard not to notice how keen she is nevertheless to have an excuse to see Percy, how adorable. I was going to be sad it didn't pan out but delightfully you engineered a close-of-business meeting between them so I am truly content.
hasfjhdg Darcy cracks me up, her disappointment in Audrey is so funny to me. Sometimes people set their hearts on pure idiots and there's Nothing You Can Do... an important life lesson for her. We have been spoiled with so many Percy/Audrey interactions with this chapter, I am so delighted -- he's so awkward and Trying His Best and yet he manages to say so many boneheaded things regardless. "I hope I don't see you around tomorrow" and "Probably for the wrong reasons" killed me, I am so fond. Percy no. But also, his praising her because her department has gotten more work done since she moved there? Amazing, of course that would be one of the reasons he likes her, it's so on brand and I'm so here for it.
And obviously I loved the Ron & Harry cameo - "Lady present!" is so funny to me yet again and Ron's total bemusement only made it even better. Percy just wants to court a girl, Ron, why would you do this to him? Why do you hate him, personally? I'm very glad he could ask Audrey out afterwards anyway - very excited to see how their date goes, no doubt I will be back very soon ?
Author's Response:Omg your reviews are so much fun to read, I am laughing at "I am so fond; Percy no" and "Why do you hate him, personally?" XD But I mean really, I feel like that has to be running through Percy's mind anytime anyone in his family does ANYTHING, just "Why are you trying to ruin my life." Poor thing, he has so many problems. XD
Thank you again! <333
Hi, Melanie! You know how sometimes you tell yourself, "I'll get right back to that," and then life decides on a different course of events entirely? This chapter was sort of like that. Meant to get right back to it last week...
Anyhow, I'll start with the easy scene. It's an amusing contrast, how the Greene sisters are handling their difficulties in this scene. Vivian -- outgoing, motivated, go-get-em Vivian -- pulling the hood over her head and hiding from the world. Then we have quiet, introverted, conflict-averase Audrey who's immersing herself in being as useful as she can manage. Like I said, a fun contrast to their personalities.
Never quite thought of what it would be like to have a law enforcement officer for a father, but I suppose he would have some skills in sussing the truth out of people. I mean, either that or interrogating it out of them, but this seems like a better approach for your heartbroken daughter.
Wow. Just when this adventure seems as though it can't get any more introspective and emotional, Audrey runs into a former boyfriend-who-aspired-to-be-a-fiance. Small world, I suppose. But I can definitely see the purpose this suits. Kind of a clarifying moment.
Then Bobby had to be off, and once again I ached — but not for him. -- See, clarifying.
Audrey's father is really, really good at this. He knows just how to draw her out. Never pulling too hard, just tugging on the right strings and then letting it happen. We should all be so talented.
That, and the moment Dad even suggested it — that I might be considering or wanting to break things off — I realized how untrue it was. I might have been worrying that things might not work out, but that seemed entirely different. -- There, another clarifying moment. Sometimes when you're trying to help someone work out what they do want, it's better to lead with what you're pretty sure they don't want. Jack is a master.
Even accounting for the passage of time, I couldn’t recall having felt back then that I was losing something like I feared losing now — difficult to define and impossible to replicate. -- So it seems like Audrey has solved the what of the matter, now she just needs to work out the how and the when.
I loved the little digression into the state of Percy's office at work. There's something about taking a pause to indulge in a bit of the mechanics of the great Ministry machine, even when I feel pretty certain that you're setting us up for another barn-stormer of an ending to this chapter.
The Ministry is full of characters, isn't it? This Laura person, for instance. I mean, her career clearly isn't going anywhere, so she'll take whatever twisted pleasure she can from lording over anyone who requires her assistance. If she's ever let go by the Ministry of Magic, she could absolutely find a job with the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
Then we come to the most critial moments of the chapter. It's not easy to work out exactly what's going through Percy's head, either for Audrey or the reader. He's plainly distracted by his business with Administration, then with the fact that his "secret plan" has been leaked to the world. Or at least some part of the world. He's so distracted, in fact, that he doesn't really put two and two together and realize that he'd in a heap of trouble.
Yeah, the longer this conversation drags on, the more clueless Percy seems. It's as though he can't understand what Audrey is upset about, or even that she's upset in the first place. Communication is definitely lacking here, but so is any sort of social radar on Percy's part.
So, having read this chapter twice now, I'll admit I'm still very confused. I'm not sure what it is that Percy is accusing Audrey of. Reading in the new information about his suspension, I'm guessing that perhaps he thinks Audrey went over his head and reported something that he did or said? Maybe that's why he thinks she hasn't been at her flat for the past day or two? Like I said, I know something is going on here, but I'm not able to follow it.
Anyway, definitely need to read the next chapter now, so I can unravel this mystery!
Be back soon,
-Dan
Author's Response:Hey Dan! Life happens. :)
Okay, cutting to the important part -- there was a lot of intentionally vague stuff at the end there because of the fact that this is one of those situations where they're each talking past each other because they each think they're talking about something different. So far it's seemed to be landing, but I can see how it might still be kind of convoluted.
Percy sent that note to her BEFORE she found out he was transferring and confronted him. Percy had every intention of making up with her. He was telling her he'd reached out and he wanted to talk. Audrey didn't see that note before that shitshow happened. So when she finds him, he has no idea why she's being hostile and passive aggressive with him. (He's annoyed about her knowing about the transfer but mainly because it means people are talking about his shit -- and like he told her, it's just an enquiry anyway, not a confirmed thing.)
Meanwhile, Audrey's just learned Percy is trying to jump ship and she thinks he's doing it to help avoid her. Like not only is he done with their relationship, he doesn't even want to be on the same floor as her (which, I mean, might make sense when you break up with someone you work closely with). Because of the fact that he hasn't even bothered to give her any closure (well, he has, but she hasn't seen the note yet) she accuses him of pulling "one of his disappearing acts" -- well, the only other disappearing act of his we know of is that minor detail of that time he just didn't talk to any of his loved ones for 3 years.
Percy caught that insinuation and is Not Having It. Audrey's just confirmed she's assumed the worst of him. Percy is now circling back to being completely pissed off.
Anyway!
You ever just meet those people who for some reason are just such fucking tools when you're just trying to do your job and asking them to do theirs? Even when it's something completely routine? (Or maybe I've just been in the public sector too long.) I just turned that up to eleven and you have Laura.
Thank you for this! I promise I'm digging us out of this pit soon. :)
Melanie
I don't blame Audrey for being in a mood. Who wants to be green, perhaps for life? Except a plant, I guess. It's so bad, she's even finding EastEnders engrossing?? Good. Grief. I'm with Percy - I simply can't see the attraction...
Poor Percy, continually being looked over for promotion. I'm not surprised he has very much his own ideas as to why that might be. Unless someone told tales of him having a panic attack, I can't see that as a reason for low confidence in him...although there wasn't anyone spying, was there? Madeleine, maybe?
Uh-oh. Audrey really should have listened to Percy and taken better care of that proposal, because I have a sneaking suspicion where it might currently be...what could be Madeleine's motive, though? Ladder-climbing at the Ministry? A grudge? And...even worse...coould she have something to do with Audrey contracting Dragon Pox???
Gonna have to read on, like NOW
Pins x
Sidney Bogstandard, haha! Love me a bit of word play ;) Reminds me of the time we had a supply teacher for chemistry who was called Ron Munden - he rapidly became Ron Mundane...but I digress. Who is Seamus's ex? And is this a hint that it's not always a Good Thing to shack up with a work colleague (unless you are Audrey and Percy, natch, because you know I ship them to the end of the world and back. No, don't you dare make this a premonitory nod to some future event that will shatter my heart.. Just. Don't. You. Dare).
What a surprise that Hermione likes spreadsheets. My only shock is discovering she's only got eighteen of them. And I really feel for poor Ginny, not really able to enjoy discussing her wedding because EVERYONE wants a piece of her mind about it. Poor woman. LEAVE HER ALONE, PEOPLE.
Just what's wrong with Audrey? Is it something she's caught off Vivian? I kind of assumed Vivian was going through some sort of heartbreak rather than a physical illness, but maybe she's contracted something from work, and she's passed it onto Audrey. Or...is Audrey pregnant??? :o :o :o
Oh!! DRAGON POX! And even Dragon Pox can't keep Percy away *sighs dreamily* - he's got such a caring side to him! I shouldn't be swooning over licorice ointment, but here I am, all a-flutter as Percy plays nurse to Audrey.
"Green's a very nice color" or should that be "Greene's a very nice color"??
DAMMIT this fic is so, so good!!
Pins x
Hello again Melanie and tag, hopefully! Jumped at the chance to come back to this one :D And I have to say right off the bat that the chapter title is delightful & intriguing, romance and stealth are two of my favourite things.
Oof, workplace politics. I have to admit I am enjoying Vivian's exasperation a little though :P I think you get that magnetism of her character across really well even while she's ranting over administrative mismanagement, kudos to you -- I totally buy her as that kind of outgoing, easy-to-get-along-with personality that would put patients at ease while also getting into trouble with middle management sometimes. And it was very cool to see Audrey's reflections on how different she is to her sister, I wonder how that will change over the course of the fic :')
And we meet the mysterious Darcy! I do love how she and Vivian are both extrovert, outgoing characters, but you can totally feel a difference between them, they're still really different people even though they have some of the same character traits, kudos again on that. The best point of comparison I have for Darcy is the drama/theatre majors from uni 8D It's a very specific vibe in my head. Anyway I was delighted to get a title drop even if it did come in the form of an unexpected blind date, Darcy no. Cepheus Tomlinson is an incredible name & the man does not disappoint in the least, I am so tickled. Italian stitching is /clearly/ superior.... Cepheus is so blithely self-confident, how amazing. How enviable 8D
But of course, Percy is there! To - well, not save the day, but at least make it a little better. Loving the absolute awkwardness between him and Audrey - at least it's a step up from the office? And she is totally noticing how attractive he is all the time, bless her. The two of them are taking baby steps and I support them. Looking forward to seeing where they go from here!
Author's Response:Hi!! <3
Vivian's so much fun to write, I'm so glad you like her. AND love that you perceived that while there are a lot of similarities between her and Darcy, there are some huge differences as well. Like I'm very reassured that apparently I was able to convey that.
Cepheus here was inspired by a story my friend told me, about a date she had with a guy who went on and on and ON about his expensive cufflinks in a very clear effort to impress her.
Thank you!! <3
NAVY! I fear burgundy would clash... Audrey dressing Percy is just too cute! I like the way she tells him to stand still, as though he's a fidgety horse, haha!!
This could be expensive for both Swynn's and Ollivander's. AND the Ministry. AND of time. Replacing all the wands is a task and a half indeed.
Oh poor Percy. Panic attacks are AWFUL. He's still managing to inject a bit of humour into the situation, though. And poor Robbie - her seems to bear the brunt of Percy's mood ALL the time. It's a wonder he isn't having anxiety attacks too. I thought Audrey handled it all pretty well; no flapping, practical, non-judgemental. I wonder if she even suspected Percy had a propensity for these attacks. And I wonder what triggered the first one? Maybe he should book in some counselling sessions?
Comfortable silence between two people speaks volumes <3
And reading your end-note, actually, I really like reading about details such as uniforms...
Pins x
I bloody love Hermione. She's just so cool, calm and confident in her own knowledge and research. And she comes out with the most cutting comments "the audacity to exist" So much opposition, backed up with insubstantial reasons, highlighting exactly why nothing ever bloody changes in wizarding society. I feel her frustration and I'm astonished she hasn't torn her hair out and run screaming from the court room by now. Although she's shut Fawley up. That's one good thing. It doesn't surprise me at all that David Choi doesn't get interrupted but Hermione does *cough* misogynistic **** *cough*
I can see some very heated debates occurring in the Granger Weasley household, if Hermione uses Ron to help her rehearse presentations and point out various flaws in her arguments. I'm not sure many people could work in that way. And isn't home life for, you know, relaxing??
Ahhhh, I can NEVER get enough of Percy and Audrey conversing, regardless of the topic. And it's so sweet when she straightens his collar or swats him on the head gently with The Prophet.
And this bit about Bonnie's birthday:
"emergency birthday"
"They're usually not emergencies, they're on the same day every year, you see"
BAHAHAHA!! I bloody love her!!! AND she's smart enough to have made a mental note of when Bonnie admired the snapdragon...
Oh. Vivian. I've a horrid feeling that things might not be going well with her boyfriend, amirite??
Team Tag has certainly kept me entertained today! Thanks so much for another brilliant chapter!
Pins x
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