A/N: A very short last chapter to the first book of what I hope to be a 7 or more book series.

Chapter 14

The End of the Beginning

The end of term feast is over. The students have all filed onto the Hogwarts Express, and Chris is in her rooms packing up the last of her things. She looks around sadly, not ready to leave just yet, too much has happened and they year has flown by too fast. She sits on her couch, which is now covered with a white sheet and lays her head back, closing her eyes thinking of what she can do to make the summer pass more quickly. A knock at the door brings her out of her reverie. She waves her hand, opening the door without opening her eyes. "Come In," She calls to the open door.

"Is that really the best idea Christine?" Severus asks as he comes in and closes the door behind him.

"I was sure it was you," She smiles and looks up at him.

"All packed up, I see" He looks around at the covered furniture, the cloth draped book shelves, and the closed up windows.

"That I am… though I am not at all ready to leave."

"Have you considered my offer?" He asks, his voice serious.

"I have…" She pauses before answering, " and I think I will have to decline. I would love to spend the summer with you, but I don't know if I am ready for that. I will be glad to visit, and you are welcome in my apartment anytime, but I need to keep my space for now."

"I assumed as much," he looks a little disappointed, "at least join me for one last drink at the three broomsticks before you go."

"That, I can manage perfectly." Chris stands and the two of them head off towards the three broomsticks and then off to find what the summer holds for them.

~~End Book 1~~

A/N again: Thank you so much for sharing this journey with me. If you enjoyed it please rate and review. I will be starting on Book 2 ASAP.