Not So Black And White

~~~(POV: Alexander Aevum)~~~

~~~(Location: Flourish and Blotts, Diagon Alley)~~~

~~~(Date: December 17th, 1985)~~~

~~~(Time: 12:35 PM)~~~

The small amount of time I've had to read is enough to read four different books on separate things. I finish the 4th, set it on the table, and pick another one.

Before I can open it, Albus puts his hand on my wrist to stop it.

"I'll be the first to say that you'll read everything here if left alone. Sometimes, exercising temperance can be very beneficial."

While his advice is wise, I can't help myself. I've just discovered an entirely new world.

Albus stands up and walks to the counter to pick up a bag. He comes back over and places it on the table.

"This bag holds more than enough books to keep you entertained for the next few weeks. I'll know once you are done reading the books. I'll send you more."

I nod my head and pick the bag up. I can't wait until I get to read what's in the books. Albus and I leave Flourish and Blotts. He holds out his elbow now that we're done here. I wanted to look around some more, but he must not have time.

I grab his elbow, and the horrible sensation spreads through me as we're transported to an alley near St. Mary's.

"Keep that bag safe. I hope the selection will occupy you long enough."

I step away from Albus, and he disappears using Apparition. I turn around and walk across the street and enter St. Mary's. I look around and see no one even knew I was gone. Magic is so incredible. I make it back to my room and immediately head for my desk.

I make sure no one's looking and pull out several books. Immediately breaking one open and starting to read.

~~~(POV: Albus Wolfric Dumbledore)~~~

~~~(Location: Hogwarts)~~~

~~~(Date: December 17th, 1985)~~~

~~~(Time: 9:12 PM)~~~

I continue to work on the paperwork on my desk. I lift my head at the sound of footsteps and see Minerva walk in. I set my things down.

"Are you sure it's wise to do what you're doing?"

I sigh and think back to Tom; if I had left him there that day, nothing would've happened as it did. Perhaps it was unavoidable, but that doesn't change the regret that fills my heart.

I stand up and throw some candy in my mouth.

"I'm doing it, so he doesn't turn out like Tom. I took the wrong approach with Tom; I thought I didn't need to be so involved. Because of that, I couldn't see what he became until it was too late."

Tom was my greatest failure.

"Alexander is different. He's smarter than Tom. He isn't cruel and twisted as he was. He doesn't have the pretentiousness and arrogance in him. He can feel love. He knows what it is... He can be so much more..."

Minerva looks at me with a questioning gaze that often makes me rethink things.

This isn't going to be one of those times. Alexander won't end up like Tom, and I'll ensure it. I'll have my hands full in the coming years, but I must do it.

"I'll not question your decision any further, Albus. Have a good rest of your night."

Minerva leaves with that final statement. I look toward the clock and see it's getting late. I still have many papers to go through. This day turned out better than I thought.

Speaking to him for a few hours gave me deep insight into who he is. He's a brilliant kid who needs something to work toward, and I'll help him with that.