Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 60
Theo prided himself on being punctual but the Lozier Group was even more punctual. They were landing just as he landed.
Grabbing Hermione by the hand, Scorp piped up immediately. "It's Theo mum. It's Theo Meelio."
"It's me alright young Malfoy. Good morning group." Theo said, greeting Emilio, Hermione and Scorp as one while extending his hand. "Are we ready for the walk through?"
Before either Hermione or Emilio could speak, Scorp spoke up again. "I'm ready. I'm really ready Theo."
"I guess that means we are all ready," offered Hermione. "Let's go see our new home."
Pulling out the key cards and ward instructions, Theo handed them to Scorp. "You may carry these most important items. After all, the house belongs to you."
A wondrous look came over Scorp's face as he glanced from Hermione to Emilio, but his response cleared everything up. "I'll carry them Theo but it's not just my new house. It's mum and Emilio's too."
Theo smiled at Scorp. "You're right in one young wizard. It belongs to mum and Emilio as well. Let's go in."
Hermione brought up the rear shaking her head. Scorp was more like Draco than she could ever have imagined. He'd always have to have the last word.
/
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 61
Theo stopped at the front door to explain the custom features of the lovely, wrap around porch. Waving his wand, he explained how one quick spell would encase the porch in an impenetrable shield without changing the look. Theo further explained how it would allow Scorp or any other child to play without supervision and still be safe.
Both Hermione and Emilio were impressed. Scorp was only interested in what other child Theo meant.
"Mum? Are we getting a baby?"
Hermione sighed because she knew exactly why Scorp had asked the question. "No Scorp. We aren't getting a baby."
"Well, is Evan going to be living here with us? Theo said…."
Theo stood there red faced realizing he had put a foot in it.
Before Hermione could respond, Emilio stepped in. Taking Scorp by the hand, he walked a few paces away from Hermione and Theo.
"Remember our conversations about grown up business Scorp?"
Scorp nodded, afraid he had made Emilio cross. Emilio realized this and immediately assured Scorp he hadn't done anything wrong but quietly reminded him that some discussions should be private, family matters.
"Like babies?" Asked Scorp.
"Yes Scorp, like babies. We will end this discussion here because we don't want to waste Theo's time, but you, me and mum will have a talk tonight. For now, let this be the last we hear about babies. Come on. Mum and Theo are waiting."
"Okay Meelio, okay. Mum and Theo are waiting."
Emilio straightened his shoulders as he and Scorp walked back over to Hermione and Theo. Raising a son was going to be a lot harder than he thought.
Neither Hermione nor Theo said a word as they proceeded through the front doors.
/*/
Still a bit embarrassed over his small faux pas, Theo was more than happy to hear the gasps of pleasure emanating from both Hermione and Scorp as they entered the huge foyer.
"Oh Merlin Theo," gasped Hermione. "If the rest of the house is as amazing as this foyer, you'll have a fan for life."
"It's big and pretty," added Scorp. "Crissy, Dusty and Embers will like it a lot." As an afterthought, he added that Louis would like it as well.
Hermione ran her fingers through Scorp's hair. "I'm sure they'll all love it. Let's go see the rest of it."
For the next thirty minutes, Theo led the small group through the rest of the house careful not to make any mention of babies or children.
The rooms were large and well laid out. Hermione's head was buzzing with ideas even as they explored room after room. There were two master bedrooms with en suites. One a bit larger than the other. Even though Malfoy Estate was only several years old, this house put it to shame. The colors, the moldings, the smell had Hermione intoxicated, and she wasn't the only one. When they reached the bedroom Emilio declared would be Scorp's, the young wizard broke out in a wide grin as he grabbed Hermione and Emilio by the hand.
"I really like my new bedroom. I'll have a lot of room for my brain games and books. Maybe Louis might want to share the room with me. I know Louis would like that because sometimes he gets lonely. There really is enough room."
Rather than get into a conversation about what Louis would like, Hermione simply nodded. Her nod must have been enough for Scorp because he didn't mention any more about Louis.
Theo had seen to it that the house had all the latest updates including a full lower level suite with a large bedroom, two good sized bathrooms, a kitchen and dining area, a good sized lounge and a reading room/den.
Hermione was more than pleased. "You've seen to everything Theo. This is amazing. The front landscaping is beyond compare. The back area leaves a little to be desired, but I'll enjoy setting it up."
"I'll enjoy setting it up too mum. I'm a big boy. I can help," offered Scorp.
Hermione and Emilio gave each other a quick glance. Their son was not about to be left out of anything. "Of course love. Mum expects you to be a big help with the decorating. For now, it's time we let Theo get back to his business. We have our keys so we can come back any time we like."
Scorp glanced up at Emilio obviously expecting him to comment on when they would be moving in, but Emilio remained silent. Having just had a sort of telling off from Emilio about family business, Scorp didn't bother to comment. Emilio and mum would tell him when it was time to move in.
"Okay mum. We have our keys. I want to go because I'm hungry. Crissy probably has my lunch ready by now."
A smiling Theo extended his hand to Scorp. "Thank you for your time young Malfoy. I'm chuffed you like your new home."
Turning to Emilio and Hermione, Theo thanked them as well before leaving a bit of advice before excusing himself to get on with his day. "Although I don't think anyone would be fool enough to enter this home, I suggest you set your wards and permissions before you leave. One can't be to careful. Ring me with any questions or concerns. Have a good day."
Emilio who had been fairly quiet shook Theo's hand assuring him he and Hermione would see to everything before leaving.
Theo nodded waving on his way out.
/*/
They had had their viewing so Emilio could get back to work and Hermione could get home to feed Scorp.
Giving Hermione and Scorp their allotment, Emilio told Hermione he would set the wards and permissions before going back to work. They parted at the door with Emilio telling them he would see them for dinner.
"Alright love. We'll see you tonight. Thank you for picking such a lovely home."
"My pleasure Mrs. Hermione. Anything for my family."
Scorp, of course had to chime in. "I like our new house Meelio. It's for our family. I'm hungry now."
Hermione and Emilio grinned at each other. Their boy was hungry. Time to go.
/*/
Even though it was very late in London when Sal and Seth arrived, they had gone straight to The Luxe to sign up for their extended stay suites.
A grinning Sal nudged Seth as they stood waiting to be helped. "Matt was spot on with his assessment."
"What assessment would that be Sal?"
"That The Luxe is turning out to be a family affair."
Seth grinned. "True that partner. It's probably good we don't have large families or we'd be able to fill up the entire hotel."
At that moment, the Reservation Wizard appeared at the counter. "How can I help you?"
Sal spoke for the both of them. "My partner and I are here in London for at least the next two weeks on business and would like to take two extended stay suites."
With a slight nod, the Reservation Wizard requested wand identification and payment information which Sal and Seth provided. At the end of the transaction, Sal and Seth were assigned suites 410 and 412. Sal in 410 and Seth in 412.
Sal and Seth took the lifts to the 4th floor promising to get a bit of sleep before contacting Theo Nott.
And that's what they did.
/*/
Theo apparated back to his office feeling happy that two of the homes were off his hands feeling certain the third home would soon be under agreement as well. He hadn't been sitting for more than five minutes when his mobile rang showing Sal Maida on the Caller-Id. Theo picked up wondering what the youngest Maida could want with him.
Sal. Good afternoon. How are you?
Hello Theo. How are you? All is well on this front. I'm calling because Seth and I are in need of your services.
Really? How can I help you?
Well, Seth and I are interested in setting up a branch of SSE in London which necessitates us finding a premises. That is where you come in. Seth and I would like to set an appointment with you to discuss suitable commercial premises.
As Sal was speaking, Theo was mentally going over his current inventory. He had a few commercial properties but nothing big enough for what Sal was asking. However, he was the ultimate Realtor. If he didn't have the necessary property, he would find it.
Congratulations to you and Seth. I'm not sure I have what you need in inventory at the moment, but let's meet up to discuss it. I'm sure I can find something. When would you like to meet?
We'd like to meet as soon as possible Theo.
Alright. Let me have a quick look at my schedule.
Theo was fully booked, but could fit Sal and Seth in Wednesday at 3:30 for thirty minutes.
I have some time tomorrow at 3:30. We can discuss what you need and go from there.
Excellent. Seth and I will see you tomorrow at 3:30. Thanks Theo.
You're welcome. See you then.
After hanging up with Theo, Sal knocked on Seth's door before letting himself in. "Oi partner. We have an appointment with Mr. Nott at 3:30 tomorrow. With that settled, what shall we get up to today?"
"I don't know about you Sal, but I'm seeing a lovely lunch in my immediate future."
"I could do with a bit of food. However, instead of going out, let's call down. We can map out what we'll be discussing with Theo over lunch."
"Sounds good mate. Later, we can let the family know we are in London."
Waving his wand to summon the menu, Seth asked Sal what he wanted to eat.
Rolling his eyes in Seth's direction, Sal summoned the extra menu from the counter. "I'm a big boy Seth. I think I can manage to sort myself."
Seth didn't even bother taking his eyes off the menu. "Well now you surly arsehole, sort yourself. I'm having a bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich with a side of Italian fries. I'll order a pot of coffee and a pot of tea as well."
Glancing over at his partner, Sal sent the menu back to the counter. "I'll have the same."
Seth roared with laughter as he pulled out his mobile to place the order. However, as he dialed the phone, he grumbled over how behind the times The Luxe was. The fact food orders had to be called in was ridiculous.
Sal stopped his mate before he could work himself up into a Lozio frenzy. "Read the fine print on the menu Seth. Meals may be called in, however, the preferred method is to press your wand against the items of your choice. Doing so will not only take the order, but will automatically identify the wand owner and the suite as well. The food is guaranteed to be delivered within thirty minutes. Gratuities may be added at the same time as the order, or be handed to the Delivery Witch or Wizard at the time the food is delivered. If it was any clearer, the words would have jumped off the page and bitten you on the arse. Now that we have that settled, I'm seriously hungry. Please order me two sandwiches with mayonnaise on the side.
"Arsehole. I'm not ordering you shite. Go to your own suite and order your own meal."
Sal didn't move which was fine because Seth hadn't expected him to move. They were partners and the best of mates as well. In private, they spoke to each other any way they chose. Seth pointed his wand at the menu and ordered lunch for them both.
/*/
Emilio was in an extremely good mood when he returned to MCC. Copies and notes regarding the Fieldcrest matter lying on his desk made his mood even better. Gas, Adam and Ezra had all ends tidied up and were scheduled to meet with Abel and Trevor the following day to get the final contract signed. Emilio was still reviewing the notes when Gas and Matt appeared at his door.
"Good afternoon Mr. COO. How did young Scorpius like his new home?"
Emilio grinned. "Good afternoon chaps. Thank you Gas for the copies and notes. Everything looks fantastic. Regarding the new home, Scorp loves it. There's a funny anecdote attached to our visit, but that's a story for another time. Right now, it seems my CEO and CFO aren't here for anecdotes. What can I do for you?"
Gas deferred to Matt.
"Nothing gets past our keen COO. To the point. Gas and I have had a discussion about James Wooley."
Pulling himself up straighter in the chair, Emilio started to say something but Matt held up a hand. "Before you go off in all directions, please let me finish my thoughts Emilio."
Emilio glared at his cousin but remained silent.
"Thank you. As I said, Gas and I had a discussion regarding James and are in agreement that should he choose to accept your invitation, he will be more than welcome. In case James is willing to relocate to London, I think it is in our best interest to have a discussion about restructuring MCC beforehand."
Emilio shuffled a few papers around. "I feel like I've done nothing but repeat myself since I mentioned James. However, I'll say it again. Until I've spoken to James, it is only a few thoughts strung together. Let's not get ahead of ourselves."
Gas smiled at the semi irate Emilio, but let Matt respond.
"Calm down Emilio. None of us are idiots. We know it's just an idea at this point. However, you know I am proactive. If we have a new wizard potentially coming aboard in a top spot, I want to have everything in place. Therefore, Gas and I would like to present our vision. Will you allow us that?"
An annoyed Emilio waved a hand gesturing for Matt to continue, but Matt was now getting annoyed himself. Emilio was acting as though they were trying to pin him to the proverbial mat, so he changed tack.
Rising from the chair, Matt apologized for overstepping. "I can see this is a topic better left until another time. When you're through in here Gas, come to my office. I'd like to go over tomorrow's itinerary. See you later wizards."
Gas watched Matt walk out the door before turning back to Emilio. "That could have gone better. Our CEO is excited over the prospect of having James join MCC because you were excited about inviting him. I've known Matt just about as long as I've known you. I'm fairly certain he was neither trying to overstep nor get on your bad side. You owe him, us a reasonable discussion. If you don't feel as though I'm overstepping, I suggest we both go to Matt's office to listen to what he has to say. I'll meet you there."
After finishing the mild rebuke, Gas stood to leave the office, but Emilio stopped him.
"Hold on a second Gas. I apologize for being an arse. I'll accompany you to Matt's office."
With a quick flick of his wand, Emilio set the papers scattered across his desk into a neat pile before following Gas out. On the short walk down the hall, Emilio chastised himself for acting as though Matt had somehow done him wrong.
/*/
When Emilio and Gas entered Matt's office, there was a tea service along with scones and biscuits sitting on the cabinet. Leaning back in his chair, Matt asked what had taken them so long. The tea was getting cold.
Gas smiled.
Emilio growled out a bit of nonsense but took a seat in front of Matt's desk apologizing as he sat.
Pointing his wand, Matt closed the door. "No need to apologize cousin. I was sure curiosity would get the better of you."
Emilio summoned tea and a scone before answering. "Curiosity had nothing to do with it. Our CFO set me straight. The day is growing older as we speak so please enlighten me as to how we will restructure if James comes aboard."
"Still a bit surly are we? Perhaps I'll stop by to see young Scorpius and inform him what an arse you've been to his favorite uncle."
Gas let out a chuckle. "That would certainly straighten things out. I can just see Scorp giving Emilio a quizzical look and the ten questions that would come after."
Emilio finished chewing his scone before responding with a laugh. "You'd have to get past Mrs. Hermione first. She'd wand whip your sorry arse for upsetting Scorp."
"Never. Unlike you, Hermione loves me. She'd never want to harm me. Enough chatter. Down to business it is. Let's talk restructuring."
So they did, and Emilio was impressed.
Even though the restructuring meant moving things around, Emilio lost a title, but didn't lose any ground. In the new hierarchy, Matt would remain CEO, Emilio would become President, Gas would take over the COO position and James would fill Gas' position of CFO.
Emilio was pleased, and it showed.
Matt couldn't resist offering a bit of cheek. "All smiles now, are we? How easy it would have been to just listen in the first place."
Emilio nodded. "You're spot on Mr. Lozio. I should have listened. However, that is behind us. I approve it all. Now that we have the hypothetical restructuring in place, I'll excuse myself to contact James. In fact, if there isn't anything pressing, I'll just pop over to MOMI and chat with Mr. Wooley in person."
Gas shrugged. "Nothing pressing on my end. Me and the FF have everything in order. By the way. I mentioned the Fieldcrest event to the boys. They all expect to attend. That's all for me."
Matt didn't have anything except a reminder. "Seth and Sal will be here for the next two weeks. I'm sure we'll be hearing from them. If possible, let's make plans to have at least one night out with them. With that being said, I'm sure they'll turn up at your door Gas as well as Hermione's. If they aren't good for anything else, they're good for sussing out free food."
Gas gave another shrug. "I hadn't heard anything, but I'm sure you're right about them turning up at my door. I have documents to review so I'll be leaving this party. Good luck with James. See you later.
"Thanks mate. I'll see you later." Answered Emilio.
"Later then Gas," added Matt. Before Gas got out the door, Matt had something to add. Glancing quickly at Emilio, Matt informed them Chloe Knight had sent correspondence confirming Whitehall Investments interest in MCC. "I initially wanted Adam to be part of the team going to Edinburgh. I have since changed my mind. Adam will remain here to work on Fieldcrest. Nicholas and Richard will set a presentation and take it to Scotland."
Gas didn't disagree with the change. "I'll be meeting with our FF shortly. We'll get the changes sorted. Later wizards."
Emilio didn't do anything except nod. There wasn't any need. The decision had been made. Besides, he had things to do. He wanted to phone Hermione to let her know he would be flooing to Milan. "I'm going to excuse myself to tidy up a few things before leaving for Milan. I'll see you when I get back."
"Alright cousin. Have a pleasant trip. If you like, I'm willing to keep Hermione and Scorp company if you run late."
Emilio grinned at his cousin. "Keep up the nonsense and I will see to it that Hermione wand whips that arse in front of me. I'll be back as soon as I can. Have a good day."
Matt continued being a cheeky arse. "Have it your way cousin, but Hermione will need someone if Marissa gets you in her clutches."
"As if. See you later."
Matt let out a soft chuckle as he turned his attention to the work in front of him.
/*/
Back in his office, Gas summoned the FF. It took less than thirty minutes for the three wizards to finalize everything Fieldcrest. Ezra and Adam were totally up to speed and would be leaving for Fieldcrest at 10:00 am Wednesday with an anticipated return of 2:00 pm if all went well. With the Fieldcrest details all tied up, Gas informed them about Matt's update regarding Whitehall Investments. Richard and Nicholas happily accepted their chance to shine while Adam seemed a bit relieved to have something removed from his plate.
Gas had one more point to make before releasing the men. He inquired about the FF attending the Fieldcrest event.
"I know I mentioned that our latest client Fieldcrest Company is planning a spectacular event on Saturday, 11/6. I also know each of you is well mannered, but I would be remiss as your CFO if I didn't mention what Matt, Emilio and I expect of you. Be clear. You lot will be representing MCC. As such, there won't be any excuse for fuck ups. Do not look for a quick shag in the garden. Do not overindulge. Do network. The event may be a social, but it is also a chance to impress, so impress them. It may not sound like it, but I do have complete faith in each of you so that's all I'll say about that. If I'm on the mark, I know all four of you have discussed this. I'd like to hear your thoughts."
Ezra was first to offer his. "Thank you for your insight Gas, but I would be remiss if I didn't speak up. I think I can say I speak for all four of us. I-we respect you as our CFO as we respect Matt and Emilio. However, taking us aside to scold us like wayward children is not something we deserve. There hasn't been a time and there never will be a time when we put our superiors or ourselves in a predicament. We've been taught well and I hope you can appreciate that. If it eases your mind, I can assure you Adam, Nicholas, Richard and myself will swear to behave ourselves….."
Ezra didn't have to go any further. Gas realized he may have come across more stringent than necessary and hastily apologized. Holding up a hand, he cut across Ezra. "Thank you for your candor Ezra. I apologize if I made it seem I lack faith in our top wizards. None of you four have ever let the partners down and I don't believe you ever will. Just chalk up this little episode as your CFO speaking out of turn. With that said, I'll let you get back to your business."
Nicholas, Richard and Adam gave Ezra a quick glance as they stood to leave.
"Thank you for your time Gas," offered Nicholas. "I've left information on your desk regarding another possible new client. If you need to discuss it, I'll be available after 2:00 today. Have a good afternoon."
"Have a good afternoon Gas," added the other three before filing out of the office.
/*/
On the way to the lifts, Nicholas noticed Ezra was wound up a bit tightly and gave him a quick pat on the back. "Relax Ezra. We appreciate your input. I believe your point was well received. I was a bit surprised at Gas' choice of words, but no matter what is said, we know how good we are."
Richard nodded in agreement.
Adam added his two cents as well. "If we weren't the best, Matt and Emilio would have chucked us out on our arses by now."
A wry smile appeared on Ezra's face. "True that mate. However, I can't imagine why Gas would even bother to address us in that manner. Don't go looking for a quick shag in the garden. As if."
As the lift doors opened, the four wizards glanced at each other before breaking out in a bout of laughter with Richard adding a last bit of cheek. "As if is right. They probably don't even have a garden."
Ezra, Nicholas, Richard and Adam stepped out of the lift with wide smiles on their faces.
/*/
By the time Scorp had used the bathroom, been washed up and enjoyed some telly, Hermione had his lunch ready.
"Scorp. Come to the kitchen. Your lunch is ready love. Mum had made you a nice burger and chips with cheese."
"Oh mum. I love burgers, and I love chips dipped in cheese. They're my favorite."
Hermione laughed as she leaned in to kiss Scorp on the top of his head. "Everything is your favorite young man. If you're not careful, you'll get as big as Clifford the Big, Red Dog."
Swinging his feet back and forth, Scorp giggled at his mum's nonsense. "You're fooling me mum. I can't be Clifford because I'm not red and I'm not a dog. I'm a little wizard who will be big when my wand chooses me not because I eat burgers."
Hermione ran her fingers through Scorp's hair realizing her little man would always try to have the last word. "Alright love. You are a little wizard who will be big when you get your wand. Don't get ketchup on your jumper. Use your napkin."
Scorp answered then jumped to another subject. "Okay mum okay. I'll use my napkin. I like our new house. It's so big. We should tell Crissy, Dusty and Embers to get us packed up so we can move into the new house. It will be too hard for just me and you and Meelio."
Hermione had just opened her mouth to explain to Scorp that he needn't worry about moving when her mobile rang showing Emilio calling. Before answering the mobile, Hermione called out to Dusty to come get Scorp for a wash up and some studying.
Hermione answered the call as she gave her wand two quick flicks to clear away Scorp's lunch remains.
Hello Mr Lozier. Have you missed us so much in an hour and a half you couldn't resist calling?
Emilio felt the warmth run through him at the sound of Hermione's voice answering with a smile in his voice.
Well yes that too. However, my specific reason for calling is to let you know I'm off to Italy possibly for the entire day.
Is everything alright? Nonna and Nonno Lozier alright?
All is well. Nonna and Nonno are fine as far as I know. My destination is the Ministry in Milan to catch up with James. My apologies to Scorp. Although I know he has tons of questions about our new home, I might not make it back to London by dinner or before he goes to bed. No worries though, we'll explain it all tomorrow evening.
Believe it or not, your someday son only made the briefest mention of our moving house. His main worry was if we should have Crissy, Dusty and Embers start packing us up, but I'm sure he'll have more questions as soon as you step through the door.
Emilio let out a hearty chuckle.
I'm sure he will. Now tell me you love me so I can be happily on my way.
I love you Mr. Lozier. Before I forget, I intend to phone Ilaria to see when she'd like to come through. She, Hannah and I have tons of wedding business to discuss. I imagine she won't want to be away from Emiliano overnight so all our wedding business will have to be accomplished during day trips. Anyway, that a discussion for another time. Be safe and give James my regards.
Sounds like a plan love. Mother will be thrilled. Now I must get going. Give Scorp a few hugs for me. I love you Mrs. Hermione. If I don't see you tonight, I'll definitely see you and Scorp tomorrow evening. Bye.
Bye love.
Hermione remained seated at the table after ending the call with Emilio thinking how even one night away from him left her feeling lonely. After chastising herself for being silly, Hermione decided to ring Ilaria to discuss her day trips. However, before she could dial, the front door opened and the lilting tones of Aunty Hannah Potter could be heard throughout the entire house.
/*/
"Good afternoon Mrs. Hermione. Why are you sitting there staring into space? Has the illustrious Mr. Lozier done a bunk and left you lonely?
Hermione grinned at her outrageous friend. "How many times do I have to caution you about becoming your husband? Your words could have come directly from his mouth."
"Not in the mood for a bit of cheek this afternoon? Sorry about that. I thought you'd be over the moon after touring the new mansion."
Hermione rolled her eyes at Hannah. "You do know the only reason I haven't hexed your arse is because it's against my principles to hex a witch who waddles when she walks."
Hannah fell into a chair she was laughing so hard. "I do not waddle, do I?"
Hannah and Hermione were both laughing when they heard Scorp call from the top of the stairs. "Mum, mum. I hear Aunty Hannah and she is laughing so big. Hi Aunty Hannah. Can I come down to see Aunty Hannah mum? I'll be careful on the stairs."
"Now you've done it. Your nephew will surely recognize your bludger sized belly and want to know if you're getting a baby. He doesn't miss a trick that one." Hermione whispered softly to Hannah before telling Scorp he could come down to see his aunty. "Come on down love."
"Thank you mum," replied Scorp hurrying down the stairs with Dusty on his tail. Even though Scorp had mastered going up and down stairs, Crissy and Dusty never let him do it alone alone, especially if he was excited about something. One of them always had his back. Hermione was thankful because sometimes, no oftentimes, Scorp got ahead of himself.
"Hello young Malfoy. Come here and give Aunty a hug and kiss. I haven't seen you in days. I think you've gotten taller."
Scorp wriggled and giggled when Hannah wrapped her arms around him while planting a sloppy kiss on his cheek. Then pulling a memory out of his head, Scorp advised her that Uncle Harry said her kiss was 'scusting.
Hermione's hand flew to her mouth. "Scorpius Malfoy that is a bad word. Say sorry to Hannah. Right now."
Scorp teared up as he stood frozen in his tracks. "I sorry Aunty Hannah. I want to go back upstairs mum."
"Alright love. You may go back upstairs. Mum isn't angry at you. I'm just upset you repeated a naughty word." Hermione explained as she hugged her boy.
Scorp continued to stare down at his feet. He had made his mum cross.
A red in the face Hannah found her lap most interesting while Hermione called Dusty to come get Scorp. Her absolute dolt of a husband had been the one to use the word in front of Scorp. The little wizard had a long memory.
Dusty came and scooped Scorp up and elf hopped him to the top of the stairs in one jump.
Hannah stood up to leave. "Now that I've upset your household, I'm leaving to hunt Harry down and kill him. Bloody idiot."
Hermione reached her hand out to Hannah. "Please sit back down. You can kill Harry later. Right now, we need to discuss the days and times you will be available for wedding discussions. I'll be inviting Ilaria to come through so I need dates and times. Would you like some water or tea?"
"Ah yes, Mother Lozier. I'm not hearing any mention of Mother Maida. We don't want to start off on the wrong foot, do we? I can adjust my schedule any way I like. Whatever you decide, just let me know. I suggest our meetings/discussions should probably be on weekends preferably Sundays. And no thank you to tea or water. My bladder is quite content at the moment.
Ignoring the bladder remark, Hermione was thinking along the same lines although she wasn't all that keen on keeping it to Sundays. Carmela had weekends off, so it could be either day for her. Neither I nor Ilaria work, and, as Hannah said, she could adjust her schedule as she liked. "Okay, I vote for Saturday evenings or Sunday afternoons when all four of us meet. When it's just Ilaria and myself, we can meet anytime. I'll leave that up to her. I'd like our first meeting to be the weekend of November sixth."
"Sounds like a plan love. Let me know as soon as we have a fixed date and time. It's good we are getting a move on. Your wedding is now less than a year away unless you get pregnant beforehand and have to get married on the fly." Hannah cheekily added before rising from the chair. "I'll say a quick hello to Louis then I'm going to hunt down the dolt I married and hex his arse good. He'll be by to cry on your shoulder. I'll see you later. Say hello to the good looking chap for me."
Hermione waved at Hannah's back as she waddled to the den thinking, if she could see herself, she'd know she was waddling. Laughing at the thought, Hermione realized it was coming up on 2:30 and she hadn't eaten anything since that morning. A small salad would do until she and Scorp had dinner.
/*/
As she twirled her wand moving ingredients into a bowl, Hermione wondered how Emilio was making out in Milan. As she sat eating her lettuce, tomato, cucumber and onion salad, an errant thought quickly passed through her mind. She hoped James hadn't gotten himself in trouble and contacted Emilio for assistance. Then she recalled the dark days when Emilio was under the blood curse and just about everyone except James Wooley had deserted him. If James was in trouble or needed Emilio's assistance, there was no way he would refuse to help.
By the time Hermione finished her salad, washed up and brushed her teeth it was after 3:00. It was time for her to go show her little man some love, see what her sweet boy was getting up to and advise him Emilio had business and might not make it to dinner.
A feeling of love and warmth shot through Hermione as she stood quietly outside Scorp's bedroom listening to him read from his baby books. He stumbled over words, but his comprehension was amazing. Draco would have never stopped bragging about his brilliant son. She took in a deep breath letting it out as a soft sigh.
When she stepped into the bedroom, all the scolding had been forgotten. Scorp held up his book grinning. "I'm reading from my baby books mum. I really am. Embers and Dusty said I'm amazing, but Crissy thinks I'm brilliant. Louis said it's because I'm a Malfoy, but I think it's because of Crissy and Dusty. Right mum?"
Hermione was so proud of her little wizard. "I think they are all right. You are an amazing, brilliant Malfoy."
"Yup. Just like Draco and Meelio. Is it dinnertime yet? Reading is making Scorp hungry."
Just as nonchalantly as you please, Scorp had compared himself not only to Emilio but to Draco as well. He was getting a someday father, but remembered Draco was his dad. The child would never stop amazing her.
Before telling Scorp dinner would be ready in a short while, she explained that Emilio was away on business and might not be there to have dinner with them. As she turned away to go back downstairs, Hermione heard Scorp explain to Crissy and Dusty how Emilio loved him but sometimes had business.
Her heart nearly exploded with love.
/*/
Dinner was going to be baked chicken, mashed and peas with apple tart for dessert. As she began laying out the dinner ingredients, Hermione decided to make a few calls. The first call to Matt went straight to his voice messaging. She gave a brief description of Louis wanting to know about family portraits and asked for a call back. The next call which lasted for several minutes was to Ilaria who agreed to work with the ladies on weekends but assured Hermione she would be available during the week as well. After a few more comments and sending Emiliano her regards, Hermione begged off telling Ilaria she was in the midst of preparing dinner but would call back to have a longer discussion. Ilaria sent her love to Scorp and Emilio before ending the call.
"Done and done on that front. Now the dinner." Hermione mumbled before turning her wand and attention to the mashed and peas. A few quick swishes and a flick had dinner and the dessert ready and waiting. It was time to feed her little man.
She had just reached the bottom of the stairs to call for Scorp when the mobile rang. Thinking it would be Matt returning her call, Hermione couldn't help the involuntary crease between her eyes. She wanted to speak to Matt just not during dinner. However, when she glanced at the mobile, she was surprised to see Emilio's name.
Hello love. How is everything going in Milan?
Everything went fine in Milan. I am now back at MCC and will be coming through in time for dinner. If you can hold off for thirty minutes or so, I'll be able to share a meal with my two favorite people. Don't fix dessert. James sent a lovely cream cake home with me.
Lowering his voice, Emilio shared a naughty thought.
I know an absolutely clever way for us to work off any cream cake calories and it will take place in the new bedroom.
Hermione giggled at Emilio's nonsense.
Scorp and I will wait dinner for you, but don't be too long. Your someday son has advised me he is hungry. As far as working off calories, that might have to be put off. I believe Scorp wants to discuss when and how we will be moving, and if there are any extra babies hanging around.
Emilio burst into laughter.
My little wizard. I don't like disappointing Scorp. Perhaps we should work on making a baby. I'm willing.
Alright Mr. Lozier. You've had your little joke. Tidy up your desk then get that handsome arse here so we can eat. We're waiting.
Okay love. I'll be there in less than thirty. Love you.
Love you more Mr. Lozier.
After laying the mobile down on the table, Hermione happily called upstairs for Scorp. He'd be chuffed that Emilio had finished his business and would make it to the house in time for dinner….. and questions.