Previously on The Taint Of Her Name Chapter 8: Plans
"Dad," snapped Orion. "Are you just going to let mum wander about town without going after her to apologize?"
"Apologize? You go after her Orion if you think she needs finding. I assure you your mother is a very capable witch. Let me clarify. Your mother is a very capable witch who can now travel as she wishes because her safety is no longer an issue. Excuse me."
Orion threw down his fork and sat glowering in the direction of his parents bedroom. "What's he playing at?"
Lucius spoke quietly. "I suggest you mind your words and your tone Orion. That's your father you were speaking to and are speaking about. Your parents have had a difference of opinion which has nothing to do with you. They will get it sorted without your help."
"Who are…..?"
Lyra cut across Orion before he could say something he would regret. "Hold your tongue Orion. Now."
Without another word, Orion excused himself and left the table.
Lyra turned to Lucius. "Well grandfather. It seems as though it's down to us to eat the dinner. Let's tuck in."
Lucius reached out to touch Lyra's arm. "My apologies Lyra. I too suddenly find I do not have an appetite. However, I will not say no to a bit of brandy."
Lyra pushed her plate away as well. "If you don't mind grandfather, I think I'll have a brandy with you."
Chapter 9: Decisions And Arguments
Neither dad nor Orion went out after mum, but neither one came out of their room either. Grandfather and I talked for a while until he put the glass of brandy on the table and took hold of one of my hands.
"I've learned over the past years that there isn't any way to hide from the truth. Therefore, I will tell you I might be the blame for the tension between your mother and father."
His words took me by surprise. "How so grandfather?" I asked.
"I'm afraid I may have unintentionally let slip to your father that your mother was looking to get back out into the business world and she and I had a discussion about her trying a little bit of everything before settling into one specific position."
I'm my mother's daughter so I could immediately see what may have happened. Dad had been upset by the news that his wife of twenty years who had never ventured far from home was looking to strike out on her own. So to speak. This was only an opinion because I didn't have all the facts. Dad was probably wary because mum didn't need his protection anymore.
Not wanting grandfather to feel as though he had caused the rift between my parents, I gave him a sanitized answer. "Arguments happen in our house grandfather. Please don't go thinking this had anything to do with you. Leo and Annabel Pavo definitely know how to argue without help from anyone."
Picking up the brandy and taking a large sip grandfather sighed. "I certainly hope that is the case. Now. If you have a bit of time, I'd like for you to show me how to work your television. Perhaps you will put on something that appeals to an older British gentleman."
"I can do that. Although I can't promise we'll find something that appeals to a British gentleman. But we can find something." And we had.
/*/
When she first slammed out of the house, Hermione had been so frustrated with Draco she had to get far away from him. Thirty minutes later she was sitting on a park bench asking herself why she had gone mad on her husband. She had been on top of him as soon as he walked through the door not even giving him a chance to pee. What she wanted to discuss was certainly important, but she could have waited for a more opportune time.
Suddenly Hermione could feel a presence standing behind her and off to the left. She had reached for her wand only to discover in her haste to get away from Draco she had left her most important protection home on the dresser. Hermione wasn't strong in wandless magic and hadn't used it in years. Even so, a trembling Hermione prepared herself to throw whatever spell came to mind then Apparate away.
Before Hermione could resort to any kind of magic, a familiar voice stopped her from making any move. "Out enjoying the night air Annabel? It's a tad bit chilly, but it's refreshing. Family dinner over already then?"
Hermione turned to find Brett standing at her side.
Breathing a sigh of relief Hermione smiled at her future son-in-law. "You gave me a fright Brett. I guess I'm not quite used to being on my own and not have to worry about consequences. What are you doing here?"
Brett sat down beside Hermione before answering. "Believe it or not Annabel. This is where Lyra and I come to sit when we have free time. It has become a symbol of our relationship. It's where I first met Lyra. Oftentimes I come to sit for a few minutes just to mull things over. The last person I expected to find here is my fiancée's mother."
Hermione stammered that she had needed a bit of air.
Brett looked over at Hermione and smiled. "You're Lyra's mum. I think I can recognize a cooling off period when I see one. Which of them felt the end of your wand?"
"Mind your tongue Mr. Davies," Hermione softly chided. "Or the only one to feel the tip of my wand will be you. I didn't hex anyone. Although at the time, the thought was tempting. Be that as it may. I'm ready to return home. Why don't you accompany me? The family dinner didn't come off well so Lyra should be at loose ends. You should come keep her company."
"It will be my pleasure to accompany you home Annabel. Take my arm and we'll be off."
/*/
When mum and Brett came through the door together I raised my eyebrows at Brett questioning how they had met up with each other.
Obviously hearing mum's voice, Orion came flying upstairs to get his two cents in.
Placing himself directly in front of mum Orion began to scold her. "What did you mean running off like that? You had us all worried. What if something had happened to you? How do you think we would have felt?"
I opened my mouth to back Orion off mum, but it was Brett who spoke up to tell Orion he should remember he was addressing his mother.
Orion rolled his eyes at Brett and did not move from in front of mum. He continued to stand there without speaking but still huffing and puffing.
Mum quietly responded to Orion. "I don't know what has come over you Orion, but you need to step aside. You will not address me as though you are my father. John Granger has been dead a very long time. As far as explanations go. The only wizard I need to explain anything to is your father. Is it your intention to stand there huffing all night or may I be excused to go speak with my husband?"
With a sheepish look on his face, Orion apologized stating he had been worried.
Mum reached out to stroke Orion's arm. "You don't have to worry love. It's safe for me to be out and about. Thank you for your concern."
Turning to Brett, mum thanked him for escorting her home which caused Orion to start again.
"Why…?" asked Orion.
"Please don't start again Orion. I've heard enough from you for now. It is over and done. I've returned home without encountering any problems. Let it stay there. If you all will excuse me, I am going to speak with my husband."
/*/
Once mum left the room, Orion tried to start with Brett. Brett wasn't having it and waved my brother away as he reached out for me. "My beautiful fiancée. May I escort you through to the kitchen so you can feed me. I am famished?"
I told Brett that grandfather hadn't eaten yet and I would join him in the kitchen as soon as I pulled grandfather away from the television.
While I cajoled grandfather away from the TV, I heard Brett as he slapped Orion on the back asking him to join us as well.
Orion was still cranky and left the room mumbling that he didn't want dinner.
I did entice grandfather away from the television room. Once he was out from under the influence of Downton Abbey, 10th version season one reruns, grandfather willingly followed me into the kitchen greeting Brett as he entered.
/*/
Hermione entered the bedroom quietly, but Draco was waiting up. "What was this all about Hermione? We have had our disputes in the past. You've never found it necessary to leave our home before. What in bloody hell could be so important to throw you into such a state?"
Hermione didn't waste any words. "I want another baby Draco."
Draco was stunned. He couldn't think of anything to say. At forty years old Hermione wanted them to have another child. What the hell was she thinking?
"You want what Hermione?" asked a still stunned Draco.
"I've been to my healer and she has assured me that my body and mindset are those of a twenty year old witch. There wouldn't be any problem with us conceiving a child and me carrying her to term."
"Her?" questioned Draco. "You've planned all this then? Have you learned how to conceive a girl as well? Will I have to be on the bottom or are girls conceived with the witch on the bottom? Is this why you were so upset when I didn't immediately drop everything and run to your side?"
"Draco," Hermione said softly. "I apologize for my earlier actions. I felt you weren't being sensitive to my wishes."
"Listen to yourself Hermione. You didn't think I was being sensitive to your wishes. I didn't have time to find out your wishes. You began shouting then you slammed out of the house. How could I know what was on your mind?"
Draco patted the spot beside him. "Come sit down for a moment so we can talk."
Hermione sat beside Draco. She waited and he waited. After a few minutes, they both realized nothing would get settled if someone didn't start the conversation.
Draco started. "I spoke to father today. He mentioned you want to find a position or take classes or both. Although we no longer have to worry about your safety. Are you sure you aren't moving a bit too fast? You want to take classes, secure a position and you want a baby. Could this be all that pent up energy from years of not being able to do any of it?"
Putting his arm around Hermione's shoulder, Draco used his other hand to push the hair out of her face. "I love you Hermione, but I want you to slow down. I am in agreement with anything you choose to do. I would also like you to think it through. Do you really need a position? I have taken care of us for all these years. I think I can manage on."
"It's not about what you have managed or can manage Draco. It is about me doing the things I never got a chance to do. I want to try being me and I'm hoping you'll support me. Please."
Draco brought a little levity into the conversation with his next remark. "Do you really want another baby even after seeing how Orion turned out?"
Hermione laughed. "I thought your son was going to give me demerits for being out of the house alone. He needs a toning down if you ask me. I might have given it to him if he had continued talking. Now that I have your attention. Why don't we go have dinner and resume our conversation later. Just so you know. I had the permanent contraceptive spell removed this morning and I will not be casting any other contraceptive spells. I want another child."
Draco grabbed Hermione and kissed her passionately. He had then whispered that whether or not they had another child. He would enjoy trying to make another son.
"Really?" Hermione laughed as they linked hands and headed to the kitchen to have some dinner. "I plan to be on top every time we have sex because I intend to get my little girl."
"As if." Draco softly huffed. "I call top position from now on"
Just as softly Hermione replied. "Let me hear you say that when you have a stiff dick in need of attention. At that time, I'm of the mind you'll take any position you can get prat."
/*/
Mum and dad came through to the kitchen smiling as though they'd just experienced their first shag. Personally. I loved it when they were like this. Smiling and loving every last inch of each other. Those are the parents I know.
I told them that grandfather, Brett and I had saved them dinner and they should take a seat so I could serve my favorite parents.
Brett and grandfather laughed at my cheek as they greeted mum and dad.
"How is everyone this evening?" Draco asked. "Are you here to stand against me Brett? If you are, I have to advise you I'm very good with a wand."
"Never sir." Brett had replied. "We wizards have to stick together. Anyway. I wouldn't want to ruin my chance to become a husband to your daughter"
Dad smiled at Brett's response as he turned to give mum a saucy wink.
After the chatter, we settled down to enjoy the Japanese cuisine. We all laughed when grandfather commented that Japanese food although not his first choice was an acceptable fourth or fifth choice.
While mom, dad, Brett and I were still laughing over grandfather's comments, Orion came upstairs to join the table. Ten minutes after that, Gillian appeared to share dinner as well.
I looked around the table at all my family realizing it wasn't the family dinner we first imagined, but it was definitely a family dinner.
/*/
Luna was smiling as she read the owl from Hermione. The Malfoy's were going back to Britain for a visit. Luna knew they were called Pavo now, but they would always be Malfoy's in her mind. Luna expected Neville at any moment and couldn't wait to share the news and try to cajole him into joining Hermione and family on their trip back home. It could be a fun time. She, Neville and the children would be on summer break and Hermione had been quick to point out there would be plenty of room.
Thinking about Britain made Luna think about her father. Xenophilius was dead and gone these last ten years, but Britain had always been his home. Whenever Luna thought about Britain, she thought about him. Xenophilius had tried to keep her tied to him. Being a good daughter she had almost complied. However, when Neville finally declared his intentions she couldn't pack her bag and her wand fast enough. Even though she and Neville visited Xenophilius several times a year, it wasn't long before he began to lose ground. It had taken him five years to let go completely at which time she and Neville had brought his body to Oregon not wanting to leave him alone in Britain.
Neville. It had taken him so long to come see about her. Initially Luna had resigned herself to life with her father. Then one day Merlin had smiled on her. She had opened the door to find Neville standing there explaining himself. She would kill for her husband and it wasn't just idle talk. She loved him and she would kill for him and their sons. Perhaps that was why she had been so harsh to Draco Malfoy. She would not listen to anyone speak badly of her family. Gone were the days she would allow anyone to disparage, demean or undermine either herself, Neville or their boys. The days of her being the pliable Hogwarts waif were long gone.
With those thoughts in mind, Luna made her decision. She, Neville and the boys would be accompanying the Malfoys to Britain on July 8th. Neville might take some convincing, but her mind was made up. They were going.
Suddenly Luna felt two, big strong arms envelop her and she turned to look into the eyes of her husband and champion and felt herself being drawn into a massive hug. Neville was home. Luna gave Neville a cheeky smile which he recognized as meaning there was time before the boys got in from soccer practice. There was time enough for him to peel off her clothes and show how much he loved being with her. And she was more than ready to receive him.
Looking into the face of his wife, Neville recognized the naked longing and wasted no time picking Luna up and carrying her into their bedroom. He kissed her and undressed her as she grabbed hold to his lovely erection She hadn't let go until it was in her.
After they had reached orgasm and were enjoying their private time, Luna advised Neville they would be traveling to Britain in July to spend a few weeks with Hermione and her family.
Neville leaned over to kiss Luna on the forehead. "Okay love. You've never steered me wrong in all our years together. I am firmly behind you. I will enjoy showing the boys around London. I believe they will get a kick out of Diagon Alley. If there is someone available for summer session, perhaps we will be able to show them Hogwarts as well. Traveling with the Malfoys should be interesting if nothing else."
They had laid about a tad too long as they heard the boys return to the house. Luna called out to Xeno, 11 and Philius, 10 to wash up and she would be with them shortly. Kissing her husband before getting out of bed, Luna headed to the bathroom for a very quick shower.
Neville laid there for a few more minutes thinking how good his life had turned out. He had a wonderful family and was now back in touch with two friends with whom he had shared the most dangerous, terrifying and amazing time in his life. It was going to be so cool to go back to Britain with friends.
/*/
After dinner, grandfather hurried back to the television to resume watching the British shows. Gillian, Orion, Brett and myself remained in the kitchen as mum and dad followed grandfather into the television room.
Gillian asked Brett and I if we had started to make wedding plans. Brett had just about regurgitated my words. "Lyra and I plan to remain engaged for a bit because we want to enjoy ourselves before settling down into married life."
Glancing at Orion, Gillian startled us all as she revealed she hoped to be married and pregnant within the next three years. Orion blushed and lowered his head without making a comment. Both Brett and I were embarrassed for Gillian as it appeared Orion had no intention of making a statement regarding their relationship.
But that was his right.
Just for a change of subject I asked Gillian why she wouldn't be accompanying us to Britain and was horrified to hear her very frank answer.
"Because I haven't been properly invited," she answered in a very straightforward manner. "I was asked, but the invitation felt more like an afterthought than a real invitation so I have decided to stay home."
Sorry I had brought up a sensitive topic I tried to change the subject once again, but a red in the face Orion was out for my blood.
"What fucking business is it of yours where Gillian goes?" Orion had loudly ranted. "You put your nose into things that don't concern you. As you recently told me. Keep your mind on your business and stay out of mine."
Brett was out of his chair in a flash and had Orion pinned to the wall. "You fucking little toad. Who do you think you are? That's my fiancée you're speaking to in that manner. You may think it acceptable to speak to your mother in that tone, but you will not be speaking to Lyra that way."
Both Gillian and I jumped up meaning to separate Brett and Orion but Brett had already stepped back demanding that Orion apologize. I tried to grab Brett by the hand to lead him out of the kitchen. But he was steadfast and unyielding as he continued to stare at Orion waiting for him to apologize.
Gillian who was near tears by this time was trying to get Orion out of the room, but he too wouldn't yield. It remained a standoff as mum followed by dad entered the kitchen.
"What's going on out here?" asked mum.
We had all remained silent. And because no one offered an explanation dad stepped in.
"Your mother has asked a question. I expect someone to answer her."
Brett spoke up. "It's my fault Leo. I may have overstepped in my zeal to bring Orion back down to earth. My apologies if I interrupted your television viewing. I'm not myself at the moment so I will take my leave and be on my way."
However. Before Brett could leave, Orion put his arm around Gillian admitting he had made an uncalled for remark and Brett had called him on it. Holding his hand out to Brett Orion apologized. "One wizard to another. I apologize for my insensitive words."
Brett shook Orion's hand without acknowledging his apology. Then looking down at me he remarked, "You may let go of my hand love. I'm fine. Why don't you walk me to the front door?"
I knew Brett was still upset and I didn't want him to leave while in that state. "Let's go watch a bit of television."
He shook his head.
Mum and dad were still standing in the doorway unaware of exactly what had gone on, but dad raised his voice to make his statement. "Everyone in this kitchen is of age so your mother and I are going back to watch television. Whatever it is. Get it settled." Then he and mum left the doorway.
Orion started to say something but Brett stopped him.
"I have only one thing to say. You run your mouth before you figure out what should be said Orion. Previously I wouldn't think to comment to a wizard in his own home. But Lyra is my fiancée and I won't stand by while you speak to her as though she was some trollop on the street. Keep a civil tongue in your head when you speak to her in my presence. My apologies you had to see this Gillian."
And grabbing me by the hand Brett led me to my bedroom where he remained aggravated but apologetic.
We laid down on my bed and I fell asleep with Brett running his fingers through my hair.
I woke several hours later to find myself alone on the bed. Brett had left a note on the pillow which read, I love you. I'll speak with you tomorrow. Clutching the note in my hand, I laid back down trying to get back to sleep. I was determined to read the riot act to Orion the first chance I got.
/*/
When Hermione and Draco returned to the TV room, Lucius caught them up on what little they'd missed making no comment or inquiry as to what had gone on in the kitchen. Whatever it was. It wasn't his business.
To his way of thinking. Whatever had gone on probably revolved around Orion. Lucius didn't know if being raised in the US made the difference, but he felt Orion stepped outside the bounds of expected good manners too often. Even though Orion was of age, Lucius believed Draco should take a firm stand with him before it was too late.
Then turning back to the program Lucius smiled to himself. I'm an elitist, pureblood, eavesdropping scoundrel. What do I really know about manners?
