milliways_bar | (no subject)

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As always, there is much to think about. Here or there, outside or inside, Egypt or London, London or the end of the Universe, work or play, magic or not? The holidays in London were delightful -- a veritable escape -- but now he and Fleur are back here once more and they need to decide what to do.

What to do, what to do, what to do: it's a good thing Bill is not prone to pacing. Instead, he sits at a table in the middle of the bar, simply... contemplating. If his foot taps slightly in impatience, he really can't be blamed. He's not used to stasis.

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"Good-bye and good riddance?" He laughs. "No, no. I think they didn't like it particularly well. At least not my mum, but Dad was fascinated by the prospect of visiting there. And they had their hands full: I've got five brothers and a sister, all younger. So I'm quite sure they didn't mind as much as they might have, were I their only child."

He did have to promise to write from time to time, though.

"Yes, that is a large family. I believe I met your brother, Fred, once."

Elaine grins. "I suppose one can't worry too much when they've got six other children to run after."

Bill rubs his forehead: he can't really imagine having that many children, or watching them, or caring for them. But his mum and dad did it, and they did it spectacularly well.

"Fred's a bit... well, he's one of two. Twins, you know. You've got to meet George to get the full picture on him."

He taps his wand to the magazine; the little picture disappears and flattens back into the magazine page. "You're welcome to keep that if you want, you know."

"Might I? I'd love to show David the pictures." Realizing Bill didn't know who David was, she explained, "Oh, he's a little boy who wandered into the bar, abandoned by his mother. He lives with Ryan and I now." She smiles softly.

"You've got a family -- that's -- it's wonderful. Of course, show it to David. I've got many more if you need anything else." He reaches over and squeezes Elaine's shoulder. "Now I'm doubly happy for you. How old is David?"

Elaine constantly reminds herself that she is not David's mother, but she has a hard time helping that.

"He's ten. He's a very sweet little boy. Quite shy, though, so he doesn't come into the bar often, even with us."

"Still... that's so very sweet. I assume you've moved, then? To some larger accommodation?"

Really, the rooms here are fine for one or two, but not for more than that. "If David likes the magazine and wants to learn more... I'd be so very glad to share the rest of my books and periodicals with him. I've got a number of them upstairs. All you need to do is ask."

"Yes, we moved into a flat in the Staff Wing a few months ago. It's quite lovely and we're very comfortable there."

She smiles. "I appreciate that, Bill...and speaking of the flat, my shift is nearly over...and I should get home." She stands. "Greet Fleur for me and I hope you have a very, very pleasant evening."

He stands with her; it's that whole gentleman thing at work. "And you, love. It's been a pleasure." He kisses her softly on the cheek. "Take care of yourself. I'll see you soon."

Elaine smiles. "Good night, Bill."

And with that, she goes up to Bar, turns in her tray, and has gone home for the night.

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