Previously on Love Vessel Chapter 39: All Things Settled
Jessie couldn't contain her laughter. "Hahaha. You should see your face. You are as red as a beet. There's no need for apologies. Mistakes happen. Do you have anything planned for tonight? Why don't you come have some cawl and bara brith with me? I can show you more about the mobile. In any case, I can show you how not press the wrong buttons."
Giving Jess a nudge with her arm, Gayle declined the invite but promised to stop by the flat later in the week admitting she was very interested in learning more about the mobile.
The two witches parted ways at the front doors calling out goodbye to each other before Apparating away.
Jess was still smiling when she landed in her flat. Gayle was a bit of a klutz and her wizard was definitely a keeper.
/*/
At precisely 5:30, Welles landed by the front door of Hermione's flat. Blue, contrary to Hermione's beliefs, ran right up to the elf sniffing and meowing remembering his smell from the one time he'd been to the flat. Welles remembered Blue as well and gave the noisy Kneazle a quick rub before heading to the kitchen area to begin the dinner preparations. He had been instructed to prepare chops. He was proud to be of service to Mr. Draco and Miss Hermione.
Blue, who was happy to have company sat on her haunches purring softly and sniffing the air while watching Welles' every move.
Blue hoped her mum and Da would be coming soon because she was hungry.
/************************************************************************
Chapter 40: Easier Than They Thought
The rest of the day at DME went well. The ins and outs of the new department had been sorted. It was decided that Hermione and Wesley would spend the entire first week getting their cases in order. Hermione had stepped out earlier in the afternoon and returned with two, lovely leather cases in which they would carry their documents. Wesley was enthused when she presented him with the initialed case.
"This is lovely Hermione. The cost must have been astronomical. Thank you so much. If you share the price, I'll start a savings account. I might be able to repay you in six months."
Hermione didn't look up but chuckled at Wesley's comments. "I'd say I'll hold you to that but I seriously doubt you could save that amount of money in such a short period of time."
Wesley chuckled even louder. "We should keep the hilarity down to a minimum. Wizards and witches who pass by our doors will think the Minister has given us carte blanche to have fun instead of working."
"Perhaps, but as soon as we close our first twenty major cases, they'll think differently. Speaking of major cases, I think we should discuss the Merritt case. It is intriguing."
Nodding his head in agreement, Wesley concurred. "I've had a look at the information. I concur it should be one of our first cases. Let's have a look."
/*/
Two hours and three teas later, Hermione and Corwin had their plans in place. They had worked out suspects, evidence and the correct way to proceed. As they happily sipped a last tea, the two partners loaded their cases with all pertinent documents.
"We are all set for tomorrow Hermione. Shall we meet here or at the Merritt home?"
Is my partner going to be a dolt just for now or forever, Hermione thought. "I suggest we take our cases home tonight so we can meet at the Merritt home tomorrow morning. That way, we'll save some time. 8:00 am seems reasonable."
"Initially, that was my idea as well Hermione. However, at second blush I'm wondering if we should come into the Ministry to make sure nothing important had landed on our desks."
Hermione paused. Wesley was right. They probably should always report to the office before starting their day. It wouldn't do for something pressing to be sitting on one of their desks without review. "Good point Mr. Corwin. We don't want to miss something important. Let's meet here at 7:00 am. We review then we're out of here."
Keeping his eyes down on the report in front of him, Wesley hid his smile. His partner had acquiesced. This might be easier than he thought. "Sounds fine Hermione. 7:00 am it is. There are several small cases we should review as well. Perhaps we can clear them up on the way back from the Merritt case."
Hermione grinned at her partner. "Sounds great Wesley. Kudos to your Unspeakable past. It's 6:15. Let's clear up for the day. I'll see you back here at 7:00 am. Have a good evening."
"Thanks Hermione. I'll see you tomorrow. You have a good evening as well."
/*/
Hermione headed back to her office and Wesley to his. They had one full day in DME under their belts. From the way things looked, they were going to be a great team.
/*/
Wesley waved at Hermione as she passed his office on the way out. He remained behind to sort out a few other things before leaving for the night. It wouldn't due for him to come up short with Miss Granger as a partner. Wesley was reading through the third page of the rules and regulations he and Hermione had set up when he felt as though someone was in the office. The DME office wasn't special. Anyone could stop in for a visit. However, this someone had entered without any type of greeting.
"Hello. Is someone there?" He inquired rising from his chair. "Please come through. I'll help you with your needs."
No one answered.
Wesley stepped to the door and looked left and right. Still nothing.
"I leave the most dark and dangerous part of the Ministry just to lose my mind in the newest department. I'm raving."
Just as Wesley sat his butt cheeks on the chair, he jumped back up. There was definitely someone in the office.
"Hermione." He called out. "Are you still here?"
Hermione didn't answer, but a lovely, soft voice did. "It's not Hermione. My name is Mona Russell. Do you have a moment?"
A surprised Wesley asked if Mona was lost. "Hello Miss Russell. You have me at a disadvantage. These are the offices of DME. Perhaps you need to go back to the lobby and state your purpose to the wizard on duty."
Mona smiled but didn't make any move to leave. "I actually bypassed the wizard on duty. It is you who I want to see Mr. Corwin. May I come in?"
Wesley smiled. If a lovely witch wanted a private audience, who was he to discourage her? "Please come in and have a seat Miss Russell. How can I help you?"
Mona smiled. "Please call me Mona."
Wesley smiled right back. "Only if you'll call me Wesley."
Warmth began to flow through Mona's body. This was going to be easier than she thought.
/*/
Draco hadn't ever been that boss who is the first one out of the building at the end of day, but today had been such a productive day he was clearing up by 6:00 looking forward to a lovely chops dinner and some cuddling with his witch.
Instead of his usual walk down the hall to say good night, Draco sent a group text inquiring if all was right and advise staff he was leaving the building. Draco waited exactly five minutes for responses and staff didn't fail him. All was right in the Malfoy Investments world. Draco was gathering his things and silently expressing his appreciation about mobiles within seconds.
Next stop, Hermione's flat.
/*/
As soon as Draco stepped into the flat, the scrumptious smell of dinner hit his nostrils. He thought to head to the kitchen to have quick peek and perhaps snag a morsel, but the off key humming coming from the study led him in the direction of his witch. When he entered the study he saw Hermione poring over some documents while Welles was sitting in a far corner with Blue on his lap.
"Good evening all." Draco said greeting all at once while leaving a kiss on the top of Hermione's head. "The family is all here I see. I am no longer wondering why my little girl didn't meet me at the door. She's found a friend. A friend I might mention who obviously didn't scare her to death. The dinner smells marvelous Welles. You may return home. I have run out of white, collared shirts and a few other necessities. I'll be to the flat later this evening."
Welles gently removed Blue from his lap before standing. "Alright Mr. Draco. I'll have your shirts ready. Goodnight Miss Hermione. Goodbye Blue."
Pop. Welles disapparated.
With Welles gone, Blue sauntered over to Draco wrapping herself around one leg.
Hermione grinned but said nothing.
Draco had words for his girl. "Oh suddenly I'm interesting."
Blue replied with a loud purr as if reprimanding her Da. She was allowed friends.
Draco raised his eyebrows at a grinning Hermione. "Did I just get a telling off from my only daughter? First, she ignores me when I enter the flat then she raises her voice. I believe I'm losing control of my girls."
"Hahaha funny Malfoy. You never had control of either one of us. We just let you think you did. How was your day? You seem to be in a very chipper mood."
"My day went very well and I am in a very chipper mood. A hungry, hungry chipper mood. I want chops and some Granger loving in that order. I'll also reveal my mobile helped make this day. No more chasing Owls. It doesn't get any better. I am going to suggest to my clients they look into purchasing mobiles. By this time next year, I'm hoping every client will have one."
Hermione got out of the chair and wrapped herself around Draco. "That's a tall order Mr. Malfoy, but if anyone can do it, you can. The chops are calling our names. Go wash up so we can have dinner."
Meeeeeeeeeooow.
Draco and Hermione smiled at their girl. She wanted dinner as well.
/*/
Draco fed Blue while Hermione served up their dinner.
The lamb chops were delicious. Hermione complimented Welles several times remarking on the spices he had used. Draco nodded telling Hermione the spices were a Malfoy secret and she could only know about them after she became a Malfoy.
Hermione was surprised. Her wizard had just made a big statement. However, this was Draco Malfoy speaking. Contrary to what he'd just said, they might not even be a couple in a year, so she didn't comment. However, Draco did.
"Nothing to say Miss Granger? I've just made a statement, roundabout sure, which requires some kind of response. Yet you sit there mute."
Hermione wiped her mouth with a napkin before looking Draco directly in the eye and responding in a joking manner. "But, there are so many witches you haven't tried yet. I think becoming Mrs. Malfoy is subjective."
Draco stared back. He'd made his statement way too soon and been put in his place, so he replied in the same joking manner. "Thank you very much for looking out for my future. The witches thank you as well."
Hermione was immediately contrite. It appeared she had hurt or embarrassed her wizard. Reaching over, she laid her hand on his. "Draco…."
Draco smiled as he removed his hand supposedly to grab a napkin to wipe his mouth. "I will give Welles your compliments when I pick up my shirts. In fact, not to eat and run but I should be getting to my flat. Do you want anything while I'm out."
Hermione pulled back her hand. The moment to apologize had passed. Whether Draco had meant what he'd said or not, she hadn't given him a chance to elaborate one way or another. Me and my quick mouth she thought.
/*/
After Draco left, Hermione settled herself in the big, comfy chair instead of sitting at the desk. Draco's words kept reverberating through her head. 'The spices were a Malfoy secret and she could only know about them after she became a Malfoy.' Was he really looking at her as a lifelong partner? Hermione didn't know. What she did know was Draco had been through quite a few witches. Was she really special? Then she began reprimanding herself.
"I shouldn't have been so quick to make jokes. I shouldn't have…. For Merlin's sake, shoulda, woulda, coulda. I'm barking. Mr. Malfoy was only making dinner conversation. Case closed."
/*/
Blue, who had sequestered herself on the couch was staring at Hermione. Her mum was trying to talk herself into or out of something. Her Da needed to come home to see about his girls.
/*/
At his flat, Draco was moodily sorting through his shirt closet. After laying several shirts on the bed, he plopped down beside them and called out to Welles. "There are only three white shirts here. I'll need more. Please launder at least four more with very crisp collars. I'm all set with trousers, but I'll also need underwear and socks. Before you see to all that, I'll have a glass of brandy. On second thought, bring the bottle and a glass."
Welles scurried about getting everything in order for his beloved employer. Yes, his employer. Mr. Draco had made it quite clear he wasn't some slave. He was a valued assistant. The elf was overjoyed that his employer needed his assistance. It had been a while. Welles was also feeling pretty good over the compliments Miss Hermione had sent. This was a very good day. After bringing Mr. Draco his brandy, Welles quietly got busy with the other requests. Not that it was his business, but Mr. Draco seemed a but stressed. Welles would do what he could to relieve that stress. It was part of his job.
/*/
Theo was last in the office finishing up details of the day. As he made the last notation, Theo's thoughts turned to his Wales witch and the cute mobile faux pas even tough it was Gayle who made it. He chuckled a bit as the nonsense thought that her mobile automatically connected to him passed through his head. "I'm barking." Pulling his calendar directly in front of him, Theo realized he didn't have any showings on Tuesday. He originally had two morning showing which had been moved to Wednesday afternoon. His Tuesday was clear. Without hesitation, he locked up his case and apparated out. His Wales witch was in for a surprise. Only stopping to buy an amazing carrot cake, Theo landed in his flat and headed to the bedroom without slowing down. It was after 7:00. Jessie probably already had dinner but he would bring the dessert and the dessert. Theo laughed at his play on words as he quickly showered and dressed. Before pulling out one of the port keys he kept in the desk, Theo sent Jessie a text.
{Sender: Theo}
Hello love. If you don't mind a visitor, I'm going to come though. I'll see you soon.
As Theo pulled on a long sleeved jumper, he waited for Jessie's response. However, there wasn't one. Although he was a bit puzzled why Jessie hadn't responded, Theo checked his wand, put the shrunken carrot cake in his inside pocket then grabbed the portkey. Perhaps his witch had fallen asleep early.
Ten minutes later, Theo landed in Jessie's cozy living room.
"Jess? Are you here? I hope I'm not intruding, but I missed Wales." Theo chuckled over his bit of humor. "Where are you?"
Still no answer.
By this time, Theo had made to the bedroom which was empty as was the bathroom. He did notice Jessie's mobile laying on the living room table. He also noticed what looked like a wizard's jumper laying across the arm of the couch. Theo didn't know which way to turn. What wizard other than him was Jessie entertaining and where was she? Theo felt himself getting upset but hastily caught himself. Although he didn't expect Jessie to have male company, it was her right. He didn't like to think about it, but it was the truth. For several seconds, Theo sat on the couch deciding what to do. He decided to leave the carrot cake and a note which simply read,
I thought I'd surprise you but you surprised me. Enjoy the carrot cake.
Theo.
After leaving the note, Theo took a portkey home. However, after twenty minutes of pouting, wondering and thinking things, Theo grabbed another portkey to return to Wales.
/*/
Twenty minutes after Theo left, Jessie returned to the flat with Jayson Collier in tow. Her brother who had made an unplanned stop in Wales had taken her out for dessert. As he put on his jumper in preparation of leaving, Jayson called out to his sister.
"Who is Theo?"
"I'm in the bathroom. I didn't hear what you said."
Jayson called back. "Who is Theo? He left a note and a carrot cake on the table."
Jessie entered the kitchen at full speed wondering if she had heard Jason right. She had heard right. There was a note from Theo and a carrot cake as well. Jessie was surprised and disappointed as well. Her British lad had come for a surprise visit and she'd missed him.
"Theo Nott is the wizard I am currently dating. I didn't expect him to come through this evening. I'm sorry we missed him Jay. He's a keeper. You would definitely like him."
"Well, well, well. My baby sister has finally found a wizard. That takes some of the worry out of you being the last family member left in Wales. I'm glad. Hopefully, Theo didn't get the wrong idea about my jumper on your couch. It's not what a wizard wants to see on the couch of his witch."
Jessie hadn't thought about that. Had Theo noticed the jumper? Was that the reason he left instead of waiting for her to return? She was becoming flustered. It was time to see to her wizard.
"Would you like a piece of carrot cake before…"
Jessie didn't get to finish her sentence because Mr. Theodore Nott had landed back in her living room and was calling out. Closing the short distance between them, Jessie stopped short when she saw the look on his face.
"Is everything alright Theo?" Jessie asked forgetting that Jayson was standing in the kitchen doorway.
Nodding at Jayson, Theo ignored Jessie's question. "I believe I'm intruding. My apologies. I'll just get back to London."
Before Theo could engage the portkey, Jessie spoke. "Theo. Whatever has put that scowl on your face, forget it. You know me better than that."
By this time, Jayson had stepped forward with his hand extended. "Hello Theo. I'm Jayson Collier Jessie's brother. Friends call me Jay. I'm pleased to meet you. In fact, I was just about to secure myself a slice of your delicious looking carrot cake before leaving. I hope you don't mind."
The scowl on Theo's face disappeared immediately as he returned the handshake. "Hello Jayson. Pleasure to meet you. My cheesecake is your cheesecake. Help yourself."
Now Jessie was scowling. "We will be having a chat after Jay leaves Mr. Nott. For right now, let's all go into the kitchen to have a piece of MY cheesecake."
Both Jayson and Theo were chuckling as they headed to the kitchen.
As they sat eating the cake, Theo was happy everything was alright. Being wrong then corrected was easier than he thought.
/*/
Zach, Bonita and one staff member were still working at 8:30 pm Monday night multiplying phones, assembling packages and assigning mobile numbers. The task was onerous but until they hired more staff it was a job that had to be done, especially with the number of orders they were receiving.
"That's twenty more done Zach."
"Twenty five for me Bonita. How's it going over there Will?
"It's going well Zach. I have twenty two sets assembled and packaged."
"Good man."
"Hey!"
Zach snorted out a laugh. "And good woman."
All three laughed.
"If my arithmetic is correct, that's sixty seven complete units. If we each do one more, that will be seventy units and we can call it a night." Offered Zach.
Bonita nodded before adding a few remarks. "Seventy mobiles of which fifty are under agreement. For now, I suggest we all work the front seeing clients from opening until noon. After noon, I will work entirely in the back multiplying and assembling until closing, at which time, you will join me."
Will smiled but said nothing.
Zach said something. "Sounds like my reliable assistant has it all figured out. I concur and will add that whomever works late gets a paid dinner."
Tapping the side of her forehead, Bonita nodded as well. "My boss is always scheming. I mean thinking. Sounds perfect. The mention of a free dinner will bring in the lot."
"That's my scheme. I mean plan."
This time Will laughed out loud. "Count me in. Scheme or plan, I do like a free dinner. In addition, my witch loves it when I bring home extra galleons."
With the last of the mobiles done, Zach called it a night. "I'll see you both bright and early."
"Goodnight Zach. Goodnight Bonita. Enjoy your evening."
"You do the same Will. Goodnight."
After locking up, Zach and Bonita walked out together but apparated away to their separate destinations. A shower and dinner were calling them both.
/*/
While Draco was lying stretched out on his own bed, Hermione was tidying up a few things at her flat. Busy work. With a few quick swish and flicks the towel cabinet was once again full of fluffy towels. The few spots beside the toilet magically disappeared. She twirled her wand and the bedding was all fresh and clean. After that, Hermione sat on the side of the bed. She was so used to Draco and his Malfoy moves being there with her.
Sigh!
Then she came to herself. Instead of sitting there fretting like some school girl she summoned a night dress from the drawer bringing it with her into the bathroom. A good soak would take her mind off….. Off what?
"Whatever. A soak will do me good."
So that's what she did. It was coming 10:00 when she stepped out of the tub. With a thought about Draco running through her head, Hermione was pleasantly surprised to find her wizard stretched out in the bed.
"Hello witch. Lovely nightdress. Come cuddle with me. Our closet is now fully stocked with my freshly laundered shirts. I left a bit of room in case you wanted to hand a few things."
Hermione laughed as she sauntered over to the bed. "I have a fast wand Mr. Malfoy. Any time I need more room, I'll jut swish and flick."
Draco smiled. He really did love this witch. "Bring that lovely arse to bed. You need your sleep. It's my understanding you have a very early start."
"You are quite right my wizard. 6:00 am will be here before I know it."
Hermione settled herself in and snuggled up against Draco's back. For a minute, everything was quiet. So quiet Hermione thought Draco had fallen asleep, but a soft nip on his back showed he was still awake. Hermione took the minute to make what she hoped was a redeeming statement.
"I'm going to be the best magical cook ever after I learn those secret recipes. Good night love."
Reaching back to grab Hermione's hand, an emotional Draco whispered. "That you will. Good night to you too love."
One of Draco's last thoughts before dropping off to sleep was, getting a wife might be easier than I thought.