Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 44
Closing the door to the den, Hermione softly commented. "I'd bet you galleons that the old dog knew everything before we set foot in the den."
Emilio laughed as he pulled his fiancée to him. "I'll have to refuse that bet love. Louis is sharper than some living wizards. Now. Please give me my kisses so I can be on my way."
"I can do that," admitted Hermione, turning her lips to meet Emilio's. Pushing back a lock of Emilio's thick, dark hair, Hermione reminded him she was due a visit to The Luxe.
"Nuzzling his mouth against Hermione's neck, Emilio whispered that he and her soldier looked forward to the visit.
No sooner were the words out of Emilio's mouth than Hermione grabbed him by the hand leading him to the newly renovated main floor bedroom. "Your honey pot had heard your words and needs attention. I will not take no for an answer."
Emilio grinned as he let himself be led to the bedroom that hadn't ever been used by the now dead Draco Malfoy. "At this moment, no is not in my vocabulary."
And that was the truth.
/
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 45
Emilio and Hermione savored their time together in the new bedroom, but at long last it was time for Emilio to get back to The Luxe. As he nipped away to have a quick shower, Hermione pondered about whether she should mention Hannah and Harry's good news. Although Harry and Emilio weren't fast mates, he'd be happy for them if only for Hannah's sake whom he adored. While Emilio was getting dressed, Hermione decided she would share.
"Hannah shared some news with me today."
Emilio glanced up from what he was doing. "Is she commandeering the Maid of Honor position even before we've shared a firm wedding date?" He joked.
"No such thing. Everything isn't about us Mr. Lozier even though you are spot on about Hannah getting that coveted spot."
"I stand corrected love. What is the news?"
"She and Harry are expecting. I'm going to be an aunt in five months. Isn't that exciting?"
"That's wonderful. I'm happy for Hannah, but she could have chosen a better baby father. Perhaps now Harry will have to keep his nose out of other people's business to concentrate on a pregnant wife. Please take that scowl off your face. I'm only joking. I wish them both well. Additionally, if you are becoming an aunt, that must mean I'm becoming an uncle. I've never been an uncle before. Shall I read up?"
The scowl remained on Hermione's face. "If you keep talking that way, I'll never share another bit of news with you."
Sitting down on the side of the bed, Emilio gave off a slight chuckle. "You are going to be my wife. There'll never be any bit of news you'll refuse to share with me because I'm very adept at sussing out information. Besides, you love me too much. You'll never keep anything from me. If all else fails, Scorp will be more than willing to share anything he knows, so your threats have come to nothing."
Throwing her arms around Emilio's neck, Hermione giggled in his ear. "My husband to be is very wise, but he might want to watch his mouth before it gets his arse hexed."
Emilio laughed out loud. "Alright, I surrender. My arse doesn't want or need to be hexed. Give me a kiss so I can be on my way. Also, I'd like you to think about our trip to Milan this weekend. Shall we go Friday evening or Saturday morning? I'm leaning towards Friday evening, but I'll leave details to you. My father will have to bind my mother. Promise me you won't let mother talk you into getting married by Sunday."
Hermione continued to giggle as she kissed Emilio on the cheek. "I think Friday evening will be fine. I'll alert mum. I promise I'll stand firm in the face of your mum, but I'm glad we'll be sharing our news. If it is alright with you, I plan to ask Ilaria to assist in the wedding planning."
Emilio gazed at his wife to be with all the love he had in him. "My mother would love that Hermione. Thank you for being so kind. Just don't allow her to run over you. Regarding where we'll stay, I appreciate the hospitality Carmela has always shown, but I'm hoping you can see your way to spending the weekend at Lozier Estate. If you're uncomfortable with us staying in the same room, you and Scorp can take rooms separate from mine. We'll sort it out when we get there."
Hermione thought about it. She had been ready to camp out at Carmela's, but that wouldn't be prudent with Emilio along. Prudent or not. It would definitely be a bit uncomfortable. "We can stay at Lozier Estate but visit mum on Saturday or Sunday. Although I wouldn't be surprised if mum showed up at the your family doors looking for her daughter and grandson."
Emilio nodded. "Everything you said is true. Carmela is very much like my mother in some aspects. We'll talk more about it later. Now I must really be getting to the hotel, or I'll be sleepwalking through my Wednesday. Get some rest fiancée. I'll see you and Scorp tomorrow evening. I love you."
"And I love you Mr. Lozier. We'll see you tomorrow."
/*/
As soon as Emilio left, Hermione magically cleaned and refreshed the bedding and the air. When she left the room, it appeared as though it hadn't ever been occupied.
Upstairs in her own bedroom, Hermione laid awake thinking of the amazing things to come. She, Emilio and Scorp would be moving into a brand, new home together. They would be married in a year and become the proper Lozier family. In addition, Harry and Hannah were going to become parents in a few months. She'd be an aunt, again.
Hermione chuckled to herself thinking about Scorp's reaction to Hannah walking around with an overly large belly. Hannah would be the second female around him to be pregnant. She could imagine the questions. Did Hannah catch having a baby from Aunty Seana? Are you going to catch a baby from Aunty Seana and Aunty Hannah? Will Uncle Harry be mean to the baby? And of course the speculations. If Uncle Gas and Uncle Harry have babies, Emeelio will probably want one too. Then she thought about Ilaria Lozier who would probably be as bad as Scorp. With another soft giggle escaping her, Hermione turned on her side to go to sleep. However, a last thought swirled through her head. What would Seth think?
/*/
Gas was home. Seana tried to feel sorry for her downtrodden husband, but just couldn't muster the energy. He hadn't stopped talking about how Matt had chucked him out on his arse. With her own nerves very close to the surface, Seana finally snapped back at her whining husband. "For fucks sake Gaspare, Matt didn't chuck you out. He is giving you the opportunity to be home with your wife and son. Please don't act like it's a punishment. What we should be deciding is what hours you'll be working. I think you should work the morning hours and be home with me and Evan in the afternoons."
Gas glanced at Seana when she swore. "I didn't mean to upset you love. I guess I'm all tied up in knots because I know this is all my doing over some stupid, bloody statements. When Draco died, I wanted to be in charge of everything so I acted as though no one knew anything but me. I took the monthly statement duty from Richard and Ezra's capable hands only to find myself here."
Seana glared at Gas. "You didn't mean to upset me yet you continue to go on and about things you cannot change. It was an error. We all make them. Get your head on straight Gas. Matt, Emilio and the FF will always have your back. As I mentioned, we should be discussing what we need to do for our family."
Evan began to cry.
Both Gas and Seana stood, but Gas told Seana to relax and he would see to the baby. "Our son must have heard the discussion and is tired of hearing his father whine as well. I apologize for being such a git Seana. If working mornings is what you think I should do, that's what we'll do. If you'll excuse me, I need to go assure Evan he won't hear any more whining from his father. In addition, I might just change a soiled nappy and hoist a bottle of formula."
/*/
Seana smiled as she watched Gas head to the bedroom. He could be such a git sometime, but she loved him with all her heart. Seana knew they would work out all the kinks because that's what a husband and wife did. Deep down she was a bit thankful it had come to this. Otherwise, Gas would probably have worked himself to death. Draco's death had sent him spinning, and Matt taking over had been a bit disconcerting, but it would all smooth itself out as soon as her husband realized no one was trying to take anything from him. He was still an integral part of MCC.
Gas entered the living room carrying Evan. "Now that he is changed and fed, our boy wants to see his mum. Seana took Evan from Gas who sat down beside his wife and son.
"I love you two more than I can ever possibly explain." Gas whispered softly. "I don't ever want to let either of you down."
Reaching over to run her hand down Gas' cheek, Seana told him she knew that. It was he who should start believing more in himself. Then, out of the blue, Seana mentioned the new homes. "Hermione would like for us to buy one of the new homes. She wants family with family. We bought this home as soon as we were married. Perhaps it's time we thought about moving house to be closer to family. We could name our home Maida Estate, or Maida House."
Gas looked at Seana in surprise. "Where did all that come from? What we have now is cozy enough."
"It is cozy Gas. It's not mandatory we buy a new home. I was just sharing my thoughts. I'll only say, I'd like you to think it over. There are only two homes available and Theo Nott is trying to pin down buyers. Now would be the time to put in a bid."
Gas realized Seana was seriously thinking about them buying a new home. "Alright love. If you want a new home in which to raise a son and a husband, I'll speak to Theo. In fact, why don't I call him now?"
Seana gave Gas a brilliant smile. "Thank you love. I hope we aren't too late. Tomorrow, I'll call Hermione to let her know we are interested in taking a spot in the family compound. While you speak to Theo, I'm going to put Evan down for the night. Give your son a kiss."
Gas first kissed Seana before leaning in to kiss Evan. Just as Gas' lips touched Evan's cheek, the little wizard opened his eyes as wide as he could and gave a drooling smile. Gas chuckled telling Seana their son was obviously happy they would be looking for a new home. "My family has spoken. A new home it will be. I'll call Theo to see if we are in luck."
Seana got up from the couch and headed to the bedroom calling back that she and Evan loved him.
"And for that I'm thankful." Gas whispered to himself as he rang Theo's mobile.
/*/
Theo was sill at the office going over business while enjoying a solitary drink when his mobile rang. Looking at the caller-id, Theo wondered what Gas wanted with him. He picked up the phone to find out.
Good evening Theo. Do you have time to have a conversation?
Hello Gas. I certainly do. I'm still at the office going over a bit of business. How can I help you?
Well I first want to offer my apology on having to go back on a decision I made.
An apology? What decision would that be Gas?
I originally told you Seana and I weren't interested in a buying a home in the Malfoy Compound. However, my lovely wife has let it be known I should get in touch with you as quickly as possible because she does want a new home. Is anything still available?
Theo perked up. One of the wankers had made a decision even if it was only due to his wife's wishes.
No need for an apology Gas. I'm chuffed you and Seana are considering one of the properties. I do have to set you straight on one thing. The properties will not be Malfoy anything. Hermione was adamant on that point. Even though it will be considered a family compound, whomever purchases a property has the right to name their home as they see fit. There are still two homes not spoken for. Would you like me to pencil you in for an appointment?
Sounds splendid because Seana has all kind of ideas as to what we would name our home. Who knew? I won't procrastinate. If you have time tomorrow morning around 10:00 am, I'll gladly see the homes and make a tentative choice until Seana has her say. Seana is firm on this. I'll probably need to be at Gringotts first thing.
Theo chuckled
10:00 am tomorrow is fine with me. I'll give you apparating directions and meet you there. Perhaps Seana can find a babysitter and accompany you to the appointment. I know you were kidding, but let me say, there's no need to visit Gringotts. If the appointment gets that far, a good faith draft will be fine. I'll also go over some additional decisions Hermione and I have made. The homes are beautiful. I believe Seana will be pleased with either of them.
Alright then Theo. Thanks. If Seana can find a babysitter, she and I will see you in the morning. If she can't, I'll baby sit Thursday morning so she can view the homes. Sorry to have tied you up for so long. I'll see you tomorrow.
This is business Gas. You haven't tied me up at all. If it can be managed, I'll see you and Seana tomorrow. Thanks mate. Goodnight.
Goodnight Theo.
Theo leaned back in is chair thinking perhaps they weren't all wankers after all. Hoisting his glass, he gave a silent toast to the non-wankers.
/*/
Seana had come back to the living room. "You're smiling. Good conversation?"
"An excellent conversation love. There are still two unsold homes. I made an appointment for 10:00 tomorrow. I intended to look at the homes on my own, but Theo made a great suggestion."
Seana waited for Gas to explain.
"Do you think you could find a babysitter for Evan? Our appointment with Theo shouldn't take more than an hour and a half. That way, we could make our decision sooner than later."
"I'd like that," gushed Seana. "But who can I get to baby sit? Your mum is working. Even though I know Carmela would drop everything to come sit her grandson, it is unreasonable for us to upset her day for a short appointment. The same for my mum. Perhaps I'll ask Hermione or Hannah. Hermione is home days and Hannah doesn't have to be to the pub before 2:30-3:00."
Gas smile at Seana's excitement. She was willing to allow someone else to care for Evan even if it was only for a short period. "Sounds like a great idea love. Will you be taking Evan there, or will you ask that they come here?"
"That's a good question Gas. Even though we haven't asked yet, I'd be inclined to have whomever agrees to come here. I'd rather Evan not go out in the chilly air. I'll speak to Hermione first thing in the morning. If she's unavailable, I'll ask Hannah. If all else fails, you can go alone then report back to me. I'm sure Theo won't be adverse to showing me the homes another day."
"Alright hon. We have a plan. I made a small faux pas while speaking to Theo. I mentioned that we were interested in a home in the Malfoy Compound."
"And what was the faux pas?"
"It seems that, per Hermione, it will not be the Malfoy Compound. It will be the family compound. Whomever purchases a home is allowed to name their home whatever they wish." Pulling Seana into a hug, Gas told her she could name their home Evan's Domicile if she wished.
Laughing, Seana gave Gas' thigh a pinch. "You are a git. Evan's Domicile is it? I think our home should have a more regal name. Something along the lines of Evan's Kingdom."
Gas laughed out loud. "Come." He said, holding out his hand to Seana. "Let's have some alone time while Evan is sleeping. I want to cuddle my wife."
"Your wife is looking forward to a cuddle." Seana replied, grabbing onto Gas' hand.
"Wicked is what I had in mind, but a cuddle will have to do for now." Gas retorted as he led Seana to their bedroom.
"Wicked will come soon enough Mr. Maida."
"Five more weeks seems like a very long time before we can practice our wickedness, but it's worth the wait on more than one front." Gas replied with a sigh.
"Yes, there's that. Intimacy at this point could very well result in another pregnancy which might drive us both mad."
Gas laughed out loud again. "Yup. Cuddles only."
/*/
Matt remained in the office pondering life long after Emilio left. He had shed himself of a volatile, vindictive wife as Emilio was about to step foot into a marriage that would probably last until he or Hermione took their last breath. He was happy for Emilio but bummed about the state of his life. The CEO of MCC wanted love. He wanted a loving wife. However, nothing was that simple. He didn't have even one prospect. There wasn't a witch walking with whom he was familiar in that sense. Kim was the first and only relationship he'd had after landing in Italy. She had grabbed him and held on. Matt sighed. Kim wasn't the only one who had held on. Once they started seeing each other, Matt had held on as tightly as Kim. However, now he was at loose ends and didn't know how to proceed. Perhaps he should start attending functions on the weekends. He'd been extended a fair few invites which he had declined being a married wizard. With his marriage behind him, perhaps he would change that. He only had a year in which to find himself a suitable plus one, so it was almost mandatory he started looking now. He wasn't going to be the only Best Man in London to appear without a date. Matt let out another sigh as he pulled out his mobile to dial his brother.
/*/
Seth was surprised to look at the caller-id and see Matt's name. He and Matt were still a bit chilly with each other over his interference in Hermione and Emilio's business. However, Matt was still his brother whom he loved and respected. Nothing would change that.
Good evening brother. What earthshaking matter has made you call me?
Hello Seth. Nothing earthshaking. I simply wanted a chat with my brother. Are you busy?
Never to busy to chat with you. How's everything?
Matt paused. How much should he share?
Everything is going as well as can be expected considering I am a divorced wizard with a would be murderer for an ex-wife.
Sounds serious Matt. You need a lift up. Sal and I plan to be in Italy this weekend to visit with Carmela and Fausto and do a bit of networking. Why don't you meet us? We can go out and have a bit of fun. Maybe you'll meet someone to take your mind off things. There are plenty of fit witches running around Italy who would love to see to you.
Matt laughed.
Yes. A fit witch would be right up my alley, but you're talking like a single wizard. Won't Gina be a bit put out?
No worries there brother. Gina and I aren't seeing each other anymore. Long story which I will not relate because it would bore you to death. Sal and I planned to stay at your house. It's just sitting there empty. I hope you don't mind. Is it good form to invite the owner of the home to join us in his own home? Anyway, Sal and I will be there Saturday afternoon. Bring your best robes or best muggle attire because we will be doing up the town Saturday evening. We'll see you after we see Carmela.
Sounds good to me. I'll floo through early to make sure the house is ready for company. See you then.
Alright Matt. We'll see you Saturday.
/*/
That takes care of that, thought Matt after ending the call with Seth. Perhaps I will be lucky enough to meet a fit witch. Grabbing his robes and case, Matt locked up before heading to the floo. With his mind a bit lighter, a shower, drink and meal were looking quite pleasing. Matt thought he might get some work done as well.
After stepping out of the floo, Matt dropped his case, wand and robes in a heap on the bed before heading directly to the bathroom to shower. Twenty minutes later, he was seated at the table with a glass of Ogden's reviewing the hotel's Tuesday menu. The choices were a vegetable bake, baked chicken with gravy and beef with broccoli and onions. Matt chose the baked chicken.
After ordering, Matt sat back sipping on his Ogden's. His glass was nearly empty when he remembered Emilio, Hermione and Scorp would be in Milan the upcoming weekend. He thought about meeting up with them then tossed the thought away. The weekend would be their private time with the Loziers. It would be bad form for him to interfere. As he took the last sip, Matt chastised himself. No matter if it was private time or not, Hermione would not visit Italy without visiting Carmela. He was sure to run into Emilio along the way.
The baked chicken hit the spot. After eating, Matt looked over a few business items, Deciding there really wasn't anything pressing, Matt called it a night and was asleep ten minutes later.
/**/
Wednesday morning, Hermione hadn't been downstairs for more than fifteen minutes before her mobile rang. Seana was calling.
Good morning Hermione. Sorry for the early morning call but I have to beg a favor.
Good morning Seana. Everything alright? How's Evan? A favor. That sounds intriguing. How can I help?
First, I want you to know that Gas and I will be touring the new homes this morning at 10:00 am. We plan to purchase one of the two.
Hermione was delighted. The family was stepping up.
That's wonderful Seana.
Yes it is. I know it's a bit of a rush but Gas and I were wondering if you wouldn't mind sitting Evan for the hour or so we'll be gone. He'll probably sleep the entire time.
Hermione was surprised by the request but immediately stepped up.
Of course I'll sit Evan. Shall I come there or will you be bringing Evan here?
If you don't mind, I'd rather you come here. I don't want to subject Evan to the chilly weather. We'll need you for 9:30-9:45 because our appointment is for 10:00.
I don't mind at all if you don't mind Scorp tagging along. It's only 7:30. He's still sleeping, but I'll get him up as soon as I get off the mobile. He'll be chuffed to see his little cousin again. Do you need me to bring anything?
No thanks. All we need is you and Scorp.
Alright. Scorp and I will see you at 9:30.
Thank Hermione. Gas and I owe you big time.
You don't owe me anything. It'll be Scorp's and my pleasure to help out. We'll see you in a bit. Thank you for trusting me with your precious bundle. See you in a bit.
See you in a bit.
/*/
As soon as she ended the call with Seana, Hermione summoned Crissy.
Pop. "Yes Mrs."
"Scorp and I will be going out this morning. I need for you to wake him, get him bathed and dressed while I make him breakfast. Please have Dusty bring down Scorp's heavy brown Jumper."
"Yes Mrs. I be doing all that real quick."
Pop. Crissy was gone to do what was asked.
Hermione quickly had eggs, sausage, toast and juice set out for Scorp which was a good thing because Scorp jumped from Crissy's arms vocally expressing how hungry he was.
"Good morning mum. Your big boy used the big toilet. I tried to wash myself up, but Crissy made me take a bath. I put on my own shirt. Right Crissy?"
"Yes. You was acting like a real big boy. Crissy will see you when you get back."
Pop. Crissy was gone again.
Scorp glanced at his mum as he ate waiting for her to tell him from where they would be coming back. With no answer forth coming, Scorp couldn't contain his curiosity any longer. "Are we going on a venture mum?"
Ruffling his hair, Hermione corrected Scorp's pronunciation before explaining what she had planned. "We are going to visit Aunty Seana and Uncle Gas. They have an important appointment this morning and have asked me to baby sit your cousin Evan."
"Oh!" Scorp exclaimed. "If you sit on the baby, you might hurt him. He's very little."
Hermione couldn't stop the loud chuckle which escaped her mouth. "You know mum would never hurt Evan. Baby sit simply means to watch over the baby not sit on him. You know that."
Scorp hunched his shoulders. If his mum thought he knew what babysitting meant, he probably knew but just forgot. He was actually quite pleased that his mum wouldn't be sitting on Evan. That would be too scary.
Hermione was still chuckling as she munched on a sausage and piece of toast. There was no accounting for what came out of Scorp's mouth. Emilio would get a big kick from his someday son's take on babysitting.
Hermione looked up when Scorp called her name. "I've eaten everything mum. May I drink my juice now?"
"Yes love. Drink your juice then I'll give your face and hands a quick wash."
"Okay mum. I want clean face and hands when we see cousin Evan. I really want him to like me."
Hermione sighed. She had explained several times that Evan would like him when he was bigger, but Scorp would have to see it for himself before he believed it.
/*/
At 9:15, Hermione put a jumper on herself and Scorp before telling him it was time to go. Scorp was so excited he was just about hopping from one foot to the other. It was as though she never took him anywhere. Hermione knew she needed to calm him down before they left the house. "Scorp. Mum needs you to slow down a bit. We don't want to upset cousin Evan. Babies are often frightened by loud noises or a lot of jumping around. If we upset Evan, we might upset Seana as well, and we don't want that."
Scorp was a bit perplexed over what Hermione was telling him. He thought he was being well behaved. Because he didn't want to make his mum cross, Scorp immediately stood stock still waiting to leave on the adventure.
Finally it was time to go.
Grabbing Scorp in her arms, Hermione turned into Apparition concentrating on Seana and Gas' front stoop.
/*/
Hermione didn't even have to knock. Seana opened the door almost as soon as Hermione's feet hit the ground.
"Hello Hermione. Hello there Scorp. Thank you for doing this Hermione. Come on through. We just put Evan down a few minutes ago, and he normally sleeps for at least three hours. You may not need to do anything but be here. In any case, I'll show you where everything is. Just in case."
Hermione led Scorp to the living room and sat him on the couch with instructions to remain seated.
After being shown where everything was, twice, Hermione assured Seana she had it down pat. Seana grinned at Hermione. "Sorry. I'm being a bit over-motherly, aren't I? I mean no harm. It's just…."
Giving Seana a big hug, Hermione returned her grin. "There is no such thing as being over-motherly to a first time mum. I completely understand. If you don't mind, I'm going to let Scorp have a peek at Evan. We won't wake him, but if I don't allow Scorp to see him, I'll have to suffer through at least three days worth of questions on why he couldn't. We'll be very quiet."
Gas, who had finally appeared in the doorway greeted Scorp then stood listening to the conversation before chiming in. "That's fine Hermione. Seana and I appreciate you coming on such short notice. A peek at our little wizard can be your reward."
"I'll take that as a reward anytime." Hermione replied as she gave Gas a big hug. "Everything here is in order. Why don't you two get going? We wouldn't want Mr. Nott to grow impatient."
Gas gave Hermione a smile and a wink. "That's true. Mr. Nott is known to get overly reactive when his patience is pushed. We hope to be back in an hour, but a two hour window may be more probable."
Hermione shrugged at Gas. "No problem either way Gas. This lady of leisure and her son do not have any other place to be. Take as long as you need. Scorp has his letter books and I'll watch some muggle telly. We're all set. Good luck with the appointment. I hope you'll like the homes."
"Okay then. Seana and I are off. See you in a bit. Bye Scorp."
"Bye Uncle Gas and Aunty Seana. Be good."
Hermione grinned as widely as Seana and Gas. Be good. Her outspoken son continually amazed her.
After getting Scorp settled with his letter book, Hermione turned the telly to a program called Your Match Is Waiting which extolled the virtues of using the service to find a life partner. Hermione was giggling softly over the crap on muggle TV when her mobile rang. Speaking of lovers, life matches and handsome men, her own was calling. The caller-id showed Emilio Lozier.
Before Hermione could press the button to talk, Scorp blurted out that it must be Emeelio calling because he didn't know where they were.
Hermione connected to the call so she could speak to her fiancé and inform him where they were.
/*/
Good morning Mr. Lozier. How are you.
Good morning to you and Scorp. The morning has gotten better now that I'm speaking to you. I know it's fairly early but I wanted to ring before the morning got too busy. Meetings on and off all day.
How thoughtful. I'm always glad to hear your voice. Scorp and I were up and out early this morning.
Really? To paraphrase Scorp. Are you on an adventure?
Of sorts. Scorp and I are at Aunty Seana's house. They have gone to meet Theo to take a look at the new homes. It is their intention to buy one. We're babysitting Evan until the parents get back.
That's exciting. We now know at least one of our neighbors.
Yes it is. Perhaps you'll speak with Theo about our new home. Scorp and I stopped by the other day. He wanted to go in but I didn't want to be mucking about without authorization. I'd like us to take a walkthrough, if it can be managed. It might have to wait until we are back from Milan, but Scorp and I would like to see our new home. By the way. When my mobile rang, your someday son very accurately pinpointed that it was you calling because you didn't know where we were. He'll be thrilled to know you have now been informed of our whereabouts.
Emilio chuckled into the phone.
My little man will always look out for me. I've said my good morning. It's time for me to get to the conference room before Matt comes looking for me. I'll see you and Scorp this evening.
Lowering his voice, Emilio spoke of intimate things.
I look forward to some dinner, some time with Scorp as well as some time with you sitting on my lap to see where that leads. Now I really must go or I'll have to explain to my peers why there is a tent pole poking through my robes.
You're being silly. I'll tell Scorp you said hello. We'll see you this evening.
I look forward to it. I'll see you this evening.
/*/
After ending the call, Hermione turned to see Scorp gazing at her with a strange look.
"What's the matter love? Do you need the bathroom?"
"No mum. I don't need the bathroom. I think we should always tell Emeelio where we are going so he doesn't get worried we aren't coming back. We don't want Emilio to be sad like we were when Draco couldn't come home.
Ruffling Scorp's hair and pulling him into a hug, Hermione agreed. "You're right love. We should never make Emilio wonder where we are, or if we're coming back. We don't want him to be sad. I'll remember for next time. Okay?"
"Yes mum. It's okay now. I wonder if Aunty Seana has snacks. I'm hungry for a cookie."
Hermione summoned her purse and reached inside. "We won't have to bother Aunty Seana's snacks. Mum brought her own. Go sit down at the table. I'll serve you up a piece of orchard crumble."
Scorp scrambled over to the table. "Come on mum. My tummy is hungry for crumble."
Hermione shushed her loud son. "You'll have a piece of orchard crumble only if you use your soft voice. We don't want to wake Evan."
"Okay mum. I'll use my softest voice, but if Evan wakes up, I'll share with him." Scorp replied in a low whisper.
Hermione could only manage to smile at her son and sigh. Even though she thought it was cute now, him needing to get a last word in might not be so cute in the future.