Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 37

"Emilio." Hermione whispered softly. "It will all be alright. Go get yourself sorted. I'm fine for now. You promised Scorp dinner love. You'd better get your menu in order."

Emilio laughed as he left a peck on Hermione's lips. "And, you can tell me how your discussion with Theo turned out. Good evening love. Good evening Carmela. Thanks for coming to see about our girl. Will you be alright stepping back through your creepy floo?"

Carmela let out a loud laugh. "A wizard who knows what's what. Thank you for inquiring Emilio. I'll be fine."

"Alright ladies. Have someone ring me if you need anything Hermione. I'll speak to you tomorrow."

"So much for being horny." Carmela whispered after Emilio left. You'll kill yourself if you try to shag."

"Please mum. Don't make me laugh."

"Of course you're right. I'm sorry. Fausto was livid. He wanted to drop everything to come to London, but I stopped him. There's nothing he can do here except inflame the situation. Kim has been jealous of you for ages. What happened? Why would she choose now to attack you?"

Hermione could guess why Kim had chosen now to lash out, but it was personal and painful for Matt. It wasn't something she cared to share. "The witch is barking and always has been."

Carmela nodded. "Now that I've seen you with my own two eyes and have judged you certain to live, I'm going to get back to Milan. You know Fausto and Xavier will want a full report.

Hermione gave Carmela the stink eye. "Thank you for coming to see about me. Be careful in the creepy floo."

"I will. I'll also give Embers, Dusty and Crissy a pep talk. We wouldn't want them to think you're never coming home. Love you. Talk to you soon."

/*/

The Healer returned with more pain medication which Hermione refused. Leaning back against the pillow, a few tears slid down Hermione face. As horrible as the day had been, it could have been so much worse. For the first time since the attack, Hermione relaxed and her eyes closed of their own volition.

/

A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 38

Theo went back to his office to review the contract he would be presenting to Hermione, but he couldn't concentrate. Hermione Granger had almost been killed in front of his eyes, and the bint who had almost done it was the bint who had caused issues between him and Matt.

Theo turned to page two before throwing the entire thing to the side thinking Draco would have killed everyone in his path. But that was being a bit facetious as he knew if Draco was still alive, none of this would be an issue.

/*/

Matt met Harry outside the Ministry holding cells to get a sense of what needed to be done. However, before either wizard spoke a word, Matt's phone rang. It was Blaise getting back to him.

Hello Blaise. Thanks for getting back to me. I have another situation.

Blaise was not amused.

Another situation Matt? I mean really. If this keeps up, you'll be my only client because I won't have time for anyone else.

If this is too much for you Solicitor Zabini, refer me to someone who does have the time. None of this has been done intentionally.

Calm down Matt. I have taken your case and will see it through. I assume you have more that needs to be entered into the record.

I do. A this exact moment, I'm outside the Ministry holding cells with Harry. My lovely wife has seen fit to attack Hermione in her own home and in front of Scorp. As I've told you, Kim has lost her mind.

What? Merlin Matt. She attacked Hermione? Alright! How can I help?

As soon as I figure things out here, I'd like to sit down with you. I'm hoping we can get this matter concluded as quickly as possible.

I have clients today, but if you can be available after 5:00, I can see you then.

Thank you Blaise. I'll make myself available. I'll speak to you later.

Later mate.

/*/

When he faced Matt, Harry was in a mood. "Before I allow you to see Kim, I'd like to know how things got to this point. Attacking a witch in her own home and in front of her son and witnesses as well."

Matt was in a mood as well because it sounded as though Harry the Auror was trying to place blame on him. "Watch your tone and your insinuations Harry. I'm just as upset as you. Let me first get this bit of information out of the way. I do not now and never have had inappropriate feelings for Hermione. She is a good friend and nothing more. All the bloody nonsense Kim is spouting is nothing but bloody nonsense. Nonsense of her own making. Because of recent happenings, I have filed for divorce. Kim has been served and this is the result."

As far as Matt was concerned, that was as much as Harry needed to know.

"I'm sorry to hear about the divorce Matt, but Kim has stepped way over every line. Something of this nature is MLE business. I've held off passing any paperwork to the CW, but to cover my own arse, I have advised MLE of what has gone on. I wanted to give you a chance to hire a solicitor if you so chose. In case you aren't aware, this is a Level One Case no matter who handles it. Unless she falls over dead, Kim will serve some time in prison. In addition, Merlin forbid, if Hermione doesn't recover….."

Matt waved off Harry's next words. "Please. Let's not think along those lines. Hermione is strong. She'll recover."

"As I started to say, if Hermione doesn't recover, your wife will go to prison for the rest of her life."

Matt was internalizing. He couldn't believe this was happening. If he didn't know better, he would think Kim had intentionally done this to ruin his chances at MCC. She had become just that vindictive. "So much shite at one time Harry. I have an appointment with Blaise this afternoon. Perhaps he can help me sort this out. Although, I don't have anything beneficial to say to Kim, I'll see her for a few minutes before I head over to St Mungo's to see Hermione. I hope you realize I wouldn't have had any of this happen to Hermione if I could have prevented it. And Scorp, my little man. What he must be going through."

Harry felt a bit foolish for losing his temper with Matt. He had tried to lay blame on a wizard who hadn't been anything but forthcoming since he met him. Clapping Matt on the shoulder, Harry softened his tone. "I'll have to accompany you to the holding cell and remain in the corridor while you speak to Kim for safety as well as legal reasons. Follow me."

Matt followed Harry down a series of corridors until they reached a door marked Dangerous Detainees. Stepping through the door, Matt was facing a line of cells which for the most part were empty. He looked around for Harry, but Harry waved him forward.

Kim, who was in the third cell down stepped up to the bars when she saw Matt. "Look who's here. Isn't it a shame? Someone has killed the lovely Hermione. The thought will keep me warm throughout my time behind bars which I don't think will amount to much with Head of Malfoy affairs standing up for me."

"Still barking then Kim? First of all. Hermione isn't dead. She's hurt, but she'll heal. Secondly, you are more than barking mad if you think I'll stand up for you. Get the blighter who had his face between your legs. He'll stand up for you seeing how far he bent over for you. I'm only here to tell you once again. I have washed my hands of you. All you have brought down on yourself. You will deal with alone."

Kim actually seemed surprised Hermione wasn't dead. "But I poisoned her. She - my.

Matt hoped Harry was hearing all this. "Thankfully, Harry recognized Hermione's symptoms and the poison has been dealt with. She's going to be fine. Just in case you'd like to know. Scorp wasn't hurt at all. Traumatized, yes. Hurt, no. What's wrong with you Kim?"

"Nothing is wrong with me Mr. big shot, Mr. Malfoy Corporation." Kim replied, raising her voice to a scream. "I was trying to save my marriage. I've told you. You won't be divorcing me for that Malfoy slag."

Matt couldn't believe his eyes at the change that had suddenly come over Kim. She was almost frothing at the mouth. "You don't have a marriage to save Kim. You ruined it all. I do want to leave you with one last point. Hermione and Emilio are seeing each other. Hermione has always been Emilio's first and last love. So, all this has been for nothing. I've never lied to you. Hermione Granger Malfoy is like a sister to me. Enjoy your thoughts. If you plan violence, screaming, or ranting in front of the Wizengamot, I advise you to take a different tack. I'm quite sure the CW will not stand still for having his throat ripped open, or being verbally attacked. Enjoy your stay. I have to get to St Mungo's to check on Hermione. She's probably pining away for me."

With those last words, an emotional Matt headed back down the hall to be met by a defeated looking Harry.

Putting a hand on Matt's shoulder, Harry silently squeezed it before letting him walk away.

Watching Matt walk away, Harry soon followed, closing the door behind him with a snap while thinking, this was going to be a bloody mess.

/*/

Matt had an appointment with Blaise for after 5:00, but he had to see Hermione to apologize for the actions of his wife.

Hermione was alone when Matt entered the room. Harry had told him Hermione was on the road to recovery. To Matt, it didn't look like recovery at all. Her complexion was pallid, her breathing labored and there was a distinct, red stain seeping through the covering on Hermione's chest. This was far from recovering. Matt left the room to find a healer as he wondered just what they were playing at.

After getting a healer, Matt stepped into an alcove to call Emilio who picked up on the second ring.

Hello mate. I'm at St Mungo's. I stopped in to see Hermione. Her color is awful, her breathing is labored and her wound is bleeding through the covering. Why aren't you here? Someone obviously needs to keep these shite healers on their toes. I've demanded that someone get to her room immediately.

I'll be right there. I stopped in earlier, but Hermione told me she was feeling better and I should go sort out my business. My witch is suffering, and here I am standing on ceremony. Whomever doesn't like my presence can kiss my arse. I just need to pull on some trousers. Watch over her until I get there. Thanks cousin.

Matt disconnected the call then stepped back into Hermione's room. Her complexion looked better, her dressing had been changed, and her breathing was better. The healer was still trying to explain about the shift change when Emilio burst into the room taking over the conversation.

Emilio tried to keep his voice low, but he was in a fury. "A shift change? A bloody shift change? Are you telling me that this ward doesn't have enough healers to see to my witch during a shift change? Tomorrow, they won't have any."

Hermione had opened her eyes and tried to speak, but it came out as a croak. "Meel, please. You're here now. It's my fault. I tried to use the loo by myself. I think I upset the process. The healers seemed to have forgotten about me, so I didn't have a way to get in touch with you."

If Hermione thought she was calming Emilio down by admitting fault, she was dead wrong. He threw open the room door and headed directly for the Head Healer. The wizard tried to huff at Emilio, but a raging Emilio had backed him into a corner before Matt appeared at his side.

"This won't help anything Emilio. You need to calm down. Hermione is crying blaming herself. Please go back to the room. She needs you there with her. I have an appointment with Blaise, but I'll come back after. Just don't leave Hermione alone. We'll talk later. I had come to apologize for Kim's behavior, but that can wait. See you soon."

/*/

Emilio tried to calm himself so he wouldn't get Hermione any more upset, but his insides were boiling. These people were going to learn. Taking a deep breath, Emilio sat on the side of the bed and took Hermione's hand in his. "My apologies for leaving you. If I had any idea…."

Hermione squeezed his hand. "Stop. I sent you home then I stupidly tried to be stronger than I was. I couldn't even call for a healer."

Emilio leaned over to kiss Hermione on the forehead. "Alright love. If you want to blame yourself, I'll let that go for now. However, come tomorrow, no one on this ward will be happy. I promise you that. There's color coming back into your face, but I believe your hair has given up altogether."

Hermione smiled. "My hair has always had a mind of it's own. You have a wand. Fix it. A ponytail will do."

"I may not be able to manage a ponytail, but I can certainly manage waves." Emilio replied as he gently flicked his wand uttering the only hair spell he knew. "Sleek-easy waves."

Hermione hair fell into soft waves around her shoulders. "I can't see it, but it feels nice. Thank you love."

Emilio conjured a small mirror and held it in front of Hermione's eyes.

"You've outdone yourself Mr. Lozier. I'll have you do my hair from now on."

Emilio grinned, and was in the process of leaning in to give Hermione a kiss when the door opened and the Head Healer stepped in.

"I want to apologize for the earlier snafu."

Emilio remained silent. He had promised Hermione he'd remain calm, and he would do that, but no one had heard the last from him.

"I'd like to check you Mrs. Malfoy. Your color looks good. You seem to be breathing better. I'd also like to take a quick peek at your wound. Would you step out for a moment Mr. Lozier?"

"No. I won't. I'll close my eyes if you like, but I'm not going anywhere. Deal with it."

Hermione headed off an Emilio rant. "I'll be fine with Emilio in the room."

Casting a quick look at Emilio, the Healer used his wand to lift the covering. "It still has a way to go Mrs. Malfoy, but it is far and above what it was an hour ago. Your dressing will be changed every two hours from here on out. We want to keep an eye on it. When you were admitted, I believe you were given directions for an overnight stay. However, just to be safe, you may be looking at a two night stay. We'll know more later. I'll have a healer check in on you every thirty minutes or so, in case you need anything. Have a good evening Mrs. Malfoy. Mr. Lozier."

After the insufferable healer left the room, Emilio laid his head against Hermione's legs. In a muffled voice, he warned Hermione that he wouldn't be leaving her alone again. They would have to forcibly throw him out.

Hermione stretched out a hand to rub his hair. "I won't ask you to leave again. At least until Harry, Hannah or Seana comes to sit with me. I promise."

"That's good, because as I said, I won't be leaving you alone again. Do you need me to use a urine spell away, or anything else."

Hermione smiled at Emilio's discomfort. "Get used to it Mr. Lozier. You may have to use certain spells on me in the days to come."

Emilio grinned back. "Which I will willingly do. Now I'll ask you to stop talking and get some rest. Scorp and I do want you home before the turn of the century. I'll be right here."

Hermione closed her eyes, but whispered her thoughts. "I close my eyes and I see Kim rushing at me and hear Scorp howling. I think I might need a bit of help. When the healer returns in thirty minutes, we'll ask for a bit of Dreamless Sleep."

Emilio jumped up. The burning rage was back. Heading for the door, Emilio questioned why she should wait thirty minutes. "I'm going to get you some Dreamless Sleep. If that bleeding Head Healer gets in my way, I'll have his neck in my hands before he can say shift change. Back in a minute."

Hermione smiled to herself as she thought how the healer shouldn't get any farther on Emilio's bad side than he already had. Fifteen seconds later, Emilio was back followed by a meek acting healer witch who wordlessly gave Hermione a small dose of the potion before leaving just as soundlessly.

Emilio lovingly ran his fingers down Hermione's face. "See what a pronounced frown will get you."

Hermione wanted to offer a cheeky response, but the potion was doing its work. She was beginning to feel drowsy.

Moving to the end of the bed, Emilio rearranged the blanket so Hermione's feet were uncovered. "I'll massage your feet until you fall asleep. You'll either relax, or laugh out loud."

"I won't be laughing out loud, but give it your best Lozier try….."

Gently grabbing Hermione's feet, Emilio replied. "I can do that my love. I can definitely do that."

Within five minutes, Hermione was asleep, so Emilio took the moment to step outside the room to call Gas who was probably wondering what was going on in London.

/*/

Blaise was impatiently waiting for Matt to appear. It was past five. He has places to be and witches to see. Matt needed to get his arse there double time. And as though Blaise had mentally called him up, Matt appeared at the office door with an apology on his lips. An apology which Blaise waved away.

"No need to apologize mate," stated Blaise, extending his hand. "Just wait until you get my bill. Although I have your case ready to file, it's my understanding you now have even more to add."

Unfortunately, I do. If we thought the current contents of the file were bad, the rest is worse. Before I explain myself, this is where I ask if you have any magical connections, to please use them to get this settled as quietly as possible. It may sound as though I'm being a self center prat, but I need to protect the company as well as my name."

Blaise nodded. "Don't worry Matt. I have the connections, and will be glad to use them. Let me hear details then we can do what is necessary to move forward as discreetly as possible."

"Thank you. I've already mentioned that Kim attacked Hermione. She evidently broke through the door at Malfoy Estates, threw an ineffective hex which missed Hermione. Enraged that she hadn't hit her target, Kim ran Hermione through with a wand that had a poisoned tip which has landed Hermione in St Mungo's in serious condition. I've been to see Kim. She happily thought she had murdered Hermione. Her reasoning being, Hermione and I are having an affair and she was trying to save our marriage. After what I've already reported to you, can you believe the nerve of her? I wanted to throttle her right there in the Ministry Holding Cells. The one thing I'm sure of, is she isn't mad at all. She's simply a vindictive bitch trying to have her way. I will not help her in any way. She's made her bed, now she can lie in it. I did wish her a happy stay in prison. As you can imagine, my comment was not well received."

Blaise was a laid back professional, but all this demented shite was pulling him out of character. "I'm at a loss for words Matt. Things like this were done during the war, but now. Kim's behavior is beyond bizarre. You may not think she's mad, but after this, whatever solicitor that takes the case will surely want a mental evaluation. If she's found mentally troubled, that will open a whole new can of worms. My suggestion is to get your documents filed as quickly as possible which I will do first thing in the morning. Do not go back to visit her. Let's get this written up then I will reach out to my very discreet sources."

After it was all down, Blaise and Matt chatted for several more minutes before ending their meeting.

Blaise stood to shake Matt's hand. "Don't worry until I tell you it's time to worry. We'll get this done before Kim goes before The Wizengamot, and, I will do my best to keep any of this out of the Daily Prophet. Just remember. There's a scandal a day in London. Most of which are closely held matters. If, Hermione is going to remain in Mungo's for more than a day, I suggest you have her moved to a private room admitting no one except family. Nothing is beneath those blighters at the Prophet. Give Hermione and Scorp my regards. I'll call as soon as your case is filed. Have a good evening."

After the door closed behind Matt, Blaise pulled out the bottle of Ogden's he kept in his drawer. Gulping the drink down in one, Blaise muttered to the air around him. "Enough Merlin. This is more than enough to be going on with."

Setting the empty glass down on the desk, Blaise went to work on the mess in front of him.

/*/

After speaking to Emilio, Gas had called Seana just to be sure she and her belly were alright. Seana was upset over what happened to Hermione but still had her mum to lean on. Gas could hear it in her voice. Seana wanted him home.

I haven't been to see Hermione. I'm waiting for you to get home. We'll go together. What is wrong with Kim? How could this have happened? I don't want that witch anywhere near us. I know you have your hands more than full, but please stop by the house before you go in to work.

Gas had so much on his mind, but he didn't want to snap at his wife, but…. But the incident with Hermione had nothing to do with her. Her whining was becoming a bit annoying. However, this was the witch he loved. No matter how busy, he should be understanding.

Nicholas and I have port keys arranged for tomorrow at 11:00 am. We'll be back in London by 9:00 am our time. I plan to stop by the house after I get our two visitors situated in The Luxe. It's business love. Don't up set yourself. The food in Cyprus doesn't agree with me. Do your poor husband a favor and have something ready for him to eat. I need to get back to the conference room. The owners and managers at Malfoy Companies Cyprus are still a bit unsettled at the way Matt and Emilio left. Nicholas and I are working hard to keep the entire deal from being scuttled. Give your mum my regards, and rub my belly for me. I love you. I'll see you soon.

Alright love. I'll see you soon. I love you too.

As he headed back to the conference room, Gas felt a bit sorry for The Fantastic Four who were about to experience a baptism by fire.

/*/

Harry was working, but he was working on nerves. He was feeling as though he was back in the war years. Shite was coming at him from right, left and center. Luckily, he wasn't that deluded teenager any longer. He knew what had to be done. He just had to gather the energy to do it. Although Harry had handed Kim's case over to the Head of MLE, he still felt drained. Matt Lozio's wife, an alleged friend to Hermione, had attacked his best friend in her home, in front of her son over some bloody bull shite. Not to mention he was still on tenterhooks with said best friend because he couldn't control his mouth which also put him on tenterhooks with Hannah.

Sigh

Harry was procrastinating. He didn't want to go home to face either Hannah or Scorp. He would have to go sooner or later, but he wasn't up to going right now. Right now, he was going to have a drink then go check on Hermione. Maybe he could say something not stupid to cheer her up.

Before Harry could gather his wand and jacket, his mobile rang. Caller-id showed it was Hannah calling.

Hello love. How is Scorp?

Hannah could hear the weariness in her husband's voice.

After a contentious battle of wills between the little man and myself, I managed to get him down for the night. He's still a bit shaken up, but he'll snap back as soon as he sees his mum, or Emilio, or both. You sound tired. I know you haven't taken time to eat. Have you even taken time to use the men's? I'm calling to remind you that you have a home.

Hannah was talking foolish. Even though Harry knew she was still keyed up over the day's events, he wasn't ready for any innocuous bantering. He let out a long breath before telling a small lie.

Believe it or not, I was just about to make a quick stop at St Mungo's to check on Hermione then come straight to the house. I am starved. I hope you and Scorp have left me some dinner.

Hannah sighed. She was married to such a stubborn and irritating wizard.

Come home Harry. The healers are taking care of Hermione. Scorp and I are going to see to her first thing in the morning. Come home. There's nothing more you can do tonight. I'll expect you within the next thirty minutes.

Harry knew Hannah was right. Hermione didn't need him. Emilio was probably at her side and didn't necessarily want to see him come through the door. Additionally, Hermione was being cared for by professionals. He needed to get over himself. It was long past the time he was top wizard in her life.

You're right love. I should be at home. I'll see you shortly.

Harry grabbed his wand and jacket then shuffled a few papers around on his desk before heading to the lifts.

/*/

Matt was feeling a bit better now that he and Blaise had sorted out his life. The filing would be made. He'd go on with his life and everything would be fine. Stepping through St Mungo's storefront, Matt knew it would never be that simple, but chose to be positive. What had Blaise said? If Kim is judged mentally unfit, that would be a whole different can of worms. Matt wasn't even sure the law allowed a man to divorce a mentally unfit woman. A whole new aspect.

Matt sighed as he knocked softly on what he thought was Hermione's door, but the room was empty. All kinds of things flashed through Matt's mind. Had Hermione died? Had she been released. Where was Emilio? An empty room wasn't making any sense. Matt didn't have long to wonder as a healer's assistant appeared at his side to inform him that Mrs. Malfoy had been moved to a private room on the other side of the floor, and was only allowed visits from family.

Matt let out the breath he didn't know he'd been holding. "I'm family! Has something happened? Is Hermione alright?"

The assistant was reluctant to give any information other than the room number, it was private and family only. Matt thanked her and hurried away. Private room. Family only. It didn't sound good. After a wrong turn, Matt finally landed in front of door Level 1-44 which had a sign that read: See healer at desk for entry. Which is exactly what a now frantic Matt did. He then had to wait for some silly assistant to check whether he could be allowed entry.

Matt couldn't believe it. Initially, they had left Hermione on her own. Now they had her locked up like some prisoner. They probably had to drag his cousin away in chains.

/*/

When the assistant healer entered the room, she startled Emilio who had dowsed off. He had immediately glanced over at Hermione to be sure she was alright.

"Sorry to disturb you Mr. Lozier, but there is a Mr. Matt Lozio at the desk requesting entry. Shall I let him through?"

Straightening himself up in the chair, Emilio softly growled that Matt was a family member and she should check the list he'd given her.

The witch scurried from the room apologizing profusely.

Several seconds later, Matt came through the door questioning all the security. "What is going on cousin? Has Hermione taken a turn for the worse?"

"Hello Matt. Small turn, but Hermione is faring much better now that she is getting the proper attention. I will admit the wound on her chest is problematic enough for the healers to keep her an additional day. Thank you for checking on her. My headstrong witch nearly did herself harm trying to be strong. She had a bit of dreamless sleep earlier, so she might not wake for a while. I'm still furious with those healers at the other end of the floor. However, my witch has cautioned me against any further action. I will abide by her wishes." Glancing quickly in Hermione's direction, Emilio lowered his voice as he added, for now.

"There aren't words enough to explain how sorry I am that this happened to Hermione. Kim is just…."

A croaky voice from the bed cut Matt off. Hermione was awake. "Don't be silly Matt. You don't owe me any apology. How could you have known your wife would do something like this? There I was lusting after Emilio's body and Kim was trying to kill me thinking I was using yours. So much for fact checking."

Emilio smiled as he walked over to give a visual check on Hermione's chest dressing.

Matt laughed out loud. "Yes. There's that. How are you feeling Hermione?"

"Like a Hippogriff is resting on my chest. However, I'm feeling much better than I was earlier. I'm worried most for Scorp. I'm not there for him. He must think I've gone and left him for good."

When the tears began sliding down Hermione's face, Matt hastily rose from his chair. "I just stopped by to check on you. I'll leave you to get sorted. I'll see you both tomorrow."

Emilio summoned a wet cloth to wipe Hermione's face as he joked about her tears running Matt away. He kissed Hermione's forehead then her lips. "Scorp is with Auntie Hannah. He's fine. I'm sure she has assured him you'll be coming home. If she hasn't, I'll hex Harry."

Hermione didn't respond to the humor. "I hope Harry picked up my wand. I feel defenseless without it. Although having it in my hand didn't help me one bit."

Joking hadn't helped anything. In fact, it caused Hermione to sob and choke at the same time.

Emilio went to the door to call the healer on duty.

/*/

The healer who entered the room went directly to business. Without asking Emilio anything, he pulled the curtain around Hermione's bed in preparation of changing her dressing, administering medication, and casting spells to take care of her sanitary needs.

After opening the curtain, the healer spoke to Hermione and Emilio simultaneously. "Mrs. Malfoy's wound, while not where we'd like it to be, is coming along. I believe you've both been advised she will remain here through Tuesday. We've adjusted Hermione's medication a bit. She probably won't need anymore Dreamless Sleep."

Emilio felt as though the last statement was ridiculous. "If Hermione requests Dreamless Sleep, she should have Dreamless Sleep, or has it become so dear it is tightly monitored?"

Although he remained professional, the healer gave Emilio a roll of the eyes. He had heard how poorly Mr. Lozier had treated the Head Healer at the other end of the floor. "Dreamless Sleep is widely available. If Mrs. Malfoy requests it, of course we'll see she gets it. However, as I said, with the adjustment of her medication, she should sleep through the night just fine. Do you have any questions Mrs. Malfoy?"

"Thank you healer. I do have one question. Why is the wound so slow to heal?"

"We believe the few hours the poison went undiagnosed is causing your slow recovery, but you are now well on the road to recovery. Someone will check on you in a few hours. Have a good night. Goodnight Mr. Lozier."

Emilio opened his mouth to grumble, but Hermione stopped him. "It seems I'll have a restful night after all. I know I said I wouldn't ask you to leave again, but I'm asking you to go have something to eat and get some sleep. I'll be fine. I'll see you tomorrow, after you get off work.

Emilio sighed, but knew Hermione was right. He was staving as well as tired. Tomorrow would there before he knew it. "I know you are in better hands now, so I'll leave without argument. Please don't try any more strength exercises. I prefer you in one piece. I'll see you after work."

Leaving a soft kiss on Hermione's lips, Emilio turned back to smile when Hermione whispered that her kiss allotment was adding up.

"I am well aware." Emilio whispered back as the door closed behind him.