Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 62
Emilio smiled at her cheek as he plopped down on the bed beside her. "I love you Mrs. Hermione. I think I don't say it enough."
"I know you love me so it's the sentiment not the quantity. You are looking quite handsome in your navy blue so I'll caution you. Your sex, my sex as well as my sticky lips might leave telltale odors if you're not careful. I don't want you smelling up MCC and I'm sure your CEO doesn't either."
Emilio grinned like a Cheshire cat as he leaned over to kiss Hermione all over her face. "Too right witch. It would be embarrassing. Luckily, I'm a competent wizard who knows several spells and charms which diffuse odor. Happy now?"
"I'm always happy around you wanker. Have a good day. I'm going to sort through the Malfoy documents today to see what I can find. Thanks again for the idea. Scorp and I will see you for dinner."
Joking or not, Emilio's heart swelled as it did every time Hermione uttered words of love and care. "You have a good day as well. Don't forget. Sal and Seth are in town staying at The Luxe. They'll be here for at least two weeks. You may look up to find them at your door."
"Okay Meelio, okay. Mum wants to go back to sleep."
"Well. How's that for cheeky? My witch is giving me the push off." Standing by the bed, Emilio cast a refresh spell over himself before leaving one last kiss on the top of Hermione's head. "Thank you…. for being you Mrs. Hermione." He whispered just before turning into apparition.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^/
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 63
Emilio who had just put down his case and hung his suit coat was two steps towards the door heading for Matt's office when his private line began ringing. "Blast it. Can a wizard catch a break? I'm not even supposed to be here yet."
Emilio picked up the phone.
Emilio Lozier here.
Good morning Emilio, James here. Sorry for such an early call, but I wanted to touch base before you started your day.
Good morning James. No need for apologies old man. When the phone rang, I groused enough for both of us. What can I do for you? Do you have something positive to share?
James let out a soft chuckle.
I have not made a decision Emilio. We spoke about me coming through to London on Saturday to discuss your offer and go over s few things. Your offer interests me but I would rather speak with the MCC team on Friday during business hours, if it can be managed rather than take someone away from their Saturday family time.
Emilio shouted a mental Bingo inside his head. James Wooley would always be a stand up wizard whose professionalism and ethics were beyond reproach.
Haha James. I mentioned this very thing to Matt and Gas. Why don't we plan on meeting Friday at 4:30 London time. Since you are tentatively coming to interview with MCC, I can offer you a paid suite at The Luxe Hotel. I'll have everything set up and ring you with details. I don't mean to cut you short James but Matt has a meeting scheduled for this morning. I need to get going. Thanks for considering MCC. The team believes you will make a great addition. I'll speak to you soon.
Listening to Emilio speak about paid suites, interviews and the rest, James felt proud to call Emilio Lozier his friend.
Alright Mr COO. Once again, thank you for thinking of me for this position. My regards to your team. Have a good day. I'll see you on Friday.
/*/
Emilio glanced at his Wonder Wizard Watch. It was 8:40. Where had the time gone? He had planned to discuss a few things with Matt before they met with the FF. Hurrying to Matt's office, Emilio nearly collided with Gas who was also hurrying to their CEO's office.
"Good morning Emilio. Wasn't trying to knock you over."
"Good morning Gaspare. No worries. It takes more than a nudge to knock me over." Emilio replied with a grin. "I want to speak to Matt before we meet with Adam, Richard, Ezra and Nicholas."
Matt took that moment to offer his own insight. "If there's a discussion to be had, let's have it inside my office not in the middle of the halls."
One behind the other, Gas and Emilio entered Matt's office.
"Good morning Matt."
"Good morning."
Nodding at each man in turn, Matt said a general good morning before getting right into it. "We all know why I've called this meeting. I believe our FF needs to know how important they are to MCC. I am going to ask for their input on the overall health of MCC. My thought is I don't want to lose any of the four. However, if any or all have let a set of loose lips color his/their perspective, perhaps they don't belong here at all."
Gas squirmed a bit in the chair. It was his set of loose lips that caused this. None of the FF deserved to be let go for speaking his mind.
Initially, Emilio had been annoyed that Matt was taking this tack, but Matt's, perhaps they don't belong here at all, alerted him to the fact the CEO was giving Gas a mental smack down without confronting him directly. Emilio knew this because Matt would rather cut off a finger than see Adam, Nicholas, Ezra or Richard walk away. The direct confrontation would come later. Gas must be shitting his boxers.
Matt stood. "Alright wizards, It's time to get to the conference room. Let's hope we still have a FF team after this meeting is over."
Emilio was smiling but Gas was cringing as they walked single file down the hall to the small conference room.
/*/
There hadn't been any need to wait for the FF as they were already in the conference room waiting patiently.
Matt only waited until Gas and Emilio had seated themselves before jumping right in. "Good morning wizards. I know the four of you are up to your arses in work so I'll make this as brief as possible. In one hundred words or less tell your management team how you feel about your position. I'd like to hear from the lot of you, but if you choose to speak through a spokesperson, that will do. Proceed wizards."
Naturally or not, Ezra spoke up first. After he finished, Nicholas spoke, then Richard, and bringing up the rear was Adam. They all spoke truth to power with none complaining or disparaging anyone but getting their points across. To the last wizard, they loved working at MCC. They respected their management team. None of the four was leaving, at least not until they were in a position to open their own companies. Matt had laughed out loud at that statement.
Now that he'd gotten nothing but positive feedback from his top wizards, Matt was feeling expansive. Spreading his arms wide, he explained his reason for the meeting. He also explained how proud he was to have such a brilliant group with such strong ethics backing up the Management Team. With that, the meeting was over except for Matt's final remarks directed at the FF.
"I believe in you lads. I think you all have what it takes to advance here at MCC. I also heard what you said about having your own companies. When that day comes and you are ready to leave the nest, you may call on me for assistance. I will be glad to lend my support."
"Thank you Matt. It's good to know we have your full support." Adam replied, speaking for all.
"You definitely have my full support wizards. Just don't try setting up your own companies the day after tomorrow."
The Fantastic Four left the conference room a very happy group holding their laughter until they were at the lifts. They had the full support of their brilliant CEO.
/*/
The meeting was over, but Emilio figured since Matt and Gas were already there, he might as well share his bit of news.
"Before we disperse wizards, I need a few minutes of your time."
Matt, who hadn't moved from the chair grinned at Emilio as he threw his arms wide. "I don't know about Gas, but I wasn't dispersing anywhere. We three have things to discuss. You have the floor Emilio. Speak."
Nodding at Matt, Emilio explained how James had called early that morning to discuss his upcoming visit. "He hasn't made any decision about the position, but does want to hear a bit about it. He's asked to meet with us Friday afternoon instead of Saturday citing reasons I have mentioned in a prior meeting. If it is satisfactory for all, I have set the meeting for 4:30 Friday our time in this conference room. Clear your calendars gents. One more thing. I'll need one of you to sign off on a voucher for the suite I plan to set up for James at the Luxe for his weekend stay. That's all I have."
Gas raised his wand giving it two quick twirls summoning a two page document which landed in front of Emilio. "You fill it out and I'll sign off on it. We can't have our guest wandering around London looking for a place to rest his weary head."
"No, we don't want that. We have a CEO who has that covered." Emilio replied dryly, handing the completed document back to Gas for signature.
Once the document was signed, Emilio put it with his notes then sat back to hear what Matthias Lozio, CEO had to say.
"Well wizards. I have had some further thoughts on the restructure."
Emilio frowned, but the word restructure didn't come out of his mouth. In fact, nothing came out of his mouth. He sat silently waiting for Matt to explain his latest epiphany.
Gas, not so much. "So, are you saying you are thinking of restructuring the restructure before we restructure?"
Emilio couldn't keep himself from smiling at Gas' nonsense, but Matt turned to Gas giving him a wicked case of side eye.
"It's nice our CFO still has jokes after almost getting a beat down from the FF. Never mind. That's all water under the dam now. To answer your question Gas and the one Emilio hasn't asked. I do have thoughts on restructuring the tentative restructure. The long and short of it is nothing will change for you or Emilio. What I would like to do is add an additional second level position to be named CIO, Chief Information Officer or CMO, Chief Marketing Officer. Your thoughts gentlemen?"
Gas, who was still stinging from Matt's barb about a beat down from the FF chose to remain silent for the moment. Emilio had some thoughts.
"Let me preface my remarks with a bit of advice. Whatever name or position we decide on today, let it be the last and permanent decision on the matter. If my two cents is worth anything, I vote we set the position as Chief Marketing Officer. The name just rolls off the tongue."
Matt chuckled over Emilio's last remark while nodding in Gas' direction. "What do you think Gas, CIO or CMO?"
"I think Chief Information Officer sounds better than Chief Marketing Officer, but will defer to the majority. In the end, it is the wizard who will rule the position. The name is only window dressing."
"Well said Mr. Maida, however, I'm inclined to go with Chief Marketing Officer as well. To me, it has the stronger name recognition. That's that. Minister Wooley will be the CMO. In the event James doesn't accept the position, we'll put this entire matter aside and proceed as we always have. I have some other thoughts bumping around the back of my mind which I will keep to myself for now. I will put together a packet to show James what the position entails and have copies ready for your review before the end of day. You may leave now Emilio. I have just one more quick item of business to discuss with Gas."
Gas shuffled his feet. Emilio excused himself.
As soon as Emilio cleared the door, Matt swung his wand to close it before addressing Gas. "I don't want this conversation to be a scolding, so I'll just say that I expect more of you Gas. Almost every week there has been some kind of fuck up. The errors stop now. If you need help or some refresher course, speak up. Emilio and I are more than willing to assist you. However, if you don't request assistance and the errors keep happening, that's another conversation. That's all for now."
Gas stood extending his hand. "Thank you for the counsel Matt. I know I've fucked up, but moving forward, things will be different. Draco had me in quite a tight box. I think having the ability to make moves on my own has thrown me a curve. I'll do better."
"That's all we ask Gas. Do better. As soon as Ezra and Adam are back from Fieldcrest, I'd like to see their report. The contract will go to Emilio. Double check that Nicholas and Richard have everything ready for their Whitehall presentation. Thanks Gas."
/*/
Back in his office, Matt's first order of business after visiting the loo was ring Hermione to tell her about the portraits. She didn't answer so he left a brief message. It would be easy for him to ask Emilio to drop the photos off with Hermione, but he really wanted to see Louis' face when he received the portraits of his family.
Matt had picked up his private line to dial Emilio, but immediately returned the phone to its cradle. He had a visitor. Chloe Knight was at his door and she appeared upset.
"Good morning Matt. I've been waiting for over an hour to see you."
Chloe Knight was at his office door huffing and puffing because she had to wait an hour to see him. Matt didn't give a shite. "I had meetings this morning. If you had called ahead, my assistant would have informed you I was unavailable. However, that's a moot issue. I'm here. You're here. How can I help you Miss Knight?"
Chloe had taken a deep breath and was turning on the Chloe charm that he had once found so alluring. She obviously wanted something, or thought Matt still wanted something. "Oh please Matt. We are past the Miss Knight stuff. I'd prefer you call me Chloe."
Staring directly in her eyes, Matt went just as charming. "Alright… Chloe. What can I do for you?"
Handing Matt the few pieces of pieces of paper she held in her hand, Chloe asked what they meant.
Matt quickly glanced at the materials.
Once again staring directly into Chloe's eyes, Matt took the one off bint to school. "What I see are pages on MCC letterhead which have been signed and co-signed by Nicholas, Richard and our CFO. If it isn't clear, they are the team who will be making the presentation to your father and Whitehall Investments. If that's all, I'll excuse myself to get to my next meeting."
Matt didn't want to be in Chloe's company any longer than necessary.
Obviously Matt's explanation didn't set well with Chloe, because she reverted to the arrogant, entitled witch who thought the world revolved around her. "Fine Matt, excuse yourself, but let me say this. You agreed to lead the team coming to Whitehall. I wanted you to meet daddy. However, now I know MCC is sending their second string, I'm not sure daddy will be interested in a MCC presentation. Nicholas and Richard can show up tomorrow, but…..."
Matt had gone along to this point, but Chloe was now aggravating his arse. If she thought she could manipulate or intimidate him, she had another think coming. Second string my arse. "Well Miss Knight. You seem to think you control what goes on at MCC. You don't. If my second string, as you call them, doesn't appeal to you or your father, MCC will not waste your time or ours. Consider the presentation canceled. If your father is interested down the road, have him call Emilio Lozier our COO or Gaspare Maida our CFO. Thank you for stopping in."
Before striding from his office, Matt silently covered everything on and in his desk and cabinets with locking/non-viewing charms. He didn't put anything past Miss Manipulator. He left Chloe standing in the doorway of his office with correspondence marked canceled in her hands. It passed through Matt's head that Daddy Knight might not be all that pleased to lose funding and support because his daughter was in a snit. He might not like it one bit when the notice marked Presentation Canceled by Chloe Knight appeared on his desk.
Matt entered Emilio's office like a tidal wave.
/*/
After Emilio left for work, Hermione had fallen back to sleep but managed to wake and straighten up the room before Scorp made it downstairs. With one last refresher flick, Hermione stepped out of the new, well used bedroom to hear Scorp calling her.
"Mum. Mum. Scorp is all washed up and dressed. I'm hungry. Mum."
The day had started.
"Good morning young wizard. Mum is right here. Come downstairs. Be careful on the stairs.
"Okay mum, okay."
Scorp was done with his oatmeal and fruit in no time. Shortly after finishing breakfast, Hermione got him settled in the Telly room for his daily dose of Chuggington and Clifford The Big, Red Dog. She left him giggling over something Emily Elizabeth and T-Bone were doing. Whatever the nonsense, it was good for Hermione who wanted to sort through the Malfoy Documents.
Ah! The Malfoy documents, vile but revealing. After the blood curse was removed from Draco, Matt, Seth and Emilio, no one needed or wanted a bunch of papers that revolved around a heinous piece of Draco's history, especially not Draco. His one directive regarding the Malfoy filth as he called it was to burn the lot. Hermione had quietly explained to him she would rather just shrink everything down and tuck it away, just in case. Draco had responded by telling her as long as the shite was kept away from him, she could do whatever she liked. Hermione had shrunken everything down and put it in her old school chest.
Once she had pulled the chest out of the closet, Hermione took the simple route. "Accio all Malfoy materials."
A ton of documentation came flying out of the chest and hovered at Hermione's eye level. She looked at it all and sighed. "Where do I bloody start?"
It really wasn't a question. Hermione knew perfectly well how she would start. Raising her wand, she made three commands. "Accio Louis Malfoy files; Accio Caleb Lozi files; Accio Ida Lozi files."
Hermione smiled as three packets separated themselves from the rest and landed softly on the small table beside her. After sending the other materials back to the chest, Hermione picked up the three packets and headed for the large table in the middle of the study.
Hermione was looking over the packets when she heard her mobile ring. At the moment, she didn't want to talk. "Right now I'm busy. Whoever it is will have to call back."
Sorting through the documentation, Hermione saw several things of interest. There were several portraits of Caleb at various points in his life. One appeared to be of Caleb at three or four. The next portrait seemed to be Caleb at age eleven or twelve. The last photo was one of a nearly grown Caleb. He was a handsome child with indisputable Malfoy features. That was it. Everything else was just notes and assumptions made by the Malfoy women. It was obvious to Hermione that at some point, the Malfoy family gave up the idea Caleb would come back to do them harm. The Malfoys were glad to be shut of Louis' bastard. Hermione didn't find anything relating to Ida or Louis. After one last shuffle through everything, Hermione called it done. What she had found would have to be enough.
/*/
With the information she had found in hand, Hermione went to check on her boy who was still sitting mesmerized by cartoons.
"Hey love. Mum is finished with her tasks. Do you want to have a trip to our new house?"
Scorp was up like a shot. "Yes mum. I'd like to visit our new house. We should bring Crissy and Dusty so they know where we are moving. I don't want them to lose us."
Hermione gave a quick shake of the head before answering her little man. ""That's not your worry Scorp. Emilio and I will get Crissy, Dusty and Embers sorted when the time comes. Right now, you and I are going to visit our new home to see what is needed."
"Okay mum, okay. I….."
"Hello Malfoys. Hannah Potter has come to visit. Is everyone decent?"
Scorp smiled at his mum. "It's Auntie Hannah mum. What's decent?"
"Hello Hannah. Scorp and I are in the Telly room. Come on in."
Hannah entered the room with a big smile on her face only to be met with a question from Scorp. "Are you getting a big tummy like Aunty Seana."
Both Hermione and Hannah were taken aback. Their little wizard didn't miss a trick.
Pulling Scorp onto her lap, Hermione decided it was time to explain the next baby thing. "Your Aunty Hannah is getting a big tummy like Aunty Seana. It means she and Uncle Harry are going to have a baby. You are going to have another cousin."
Silence.
"Does Meelio know? He doesn't want any babies to bite me. Will this baby try to bite me? Those stomach babies don't know the rules mum. I want another cousin, but I don't want it to be mean to me. Everybody is having a baby except us. I think someone should help us save up."
Hannah glanced at Hermione looking for an explanation about saving up. A tickled Hermione mouthed she would explain later. Hermione could barely control herself. Scorpius Malfoy wanted answers. To deflect from the subject, Hermione told Scorp to call Dusty to take him to potty.
"Okay mum, okay, but I use the big toilet. The potty is for babies. Dusty!"
Pop, Dusty appeared. "Little man be calling Dusty?"
"I need to use the loo and wash my hands. It's almost time for lunch. Aunty Hannah is getting a baby. Meelio said we can get a baby if we save up. We need to save up."
As much as Dusty talked, she knew Scorp was talking out of turn. "Little man be talking too much. Come on to use the toilet."
Hermione and Hannah waited until Scorp was out of earshot to comment.
Hannah couldn't control herself. "Emilio is making you save up? Am I to believe that the handsome ex minister current COO thinks you have to buy a baby? I'm disappointed. Here I was thinking he knew..."
Hermione cut right across Hannah. "Mind yourself Hannah or I'll send Emilio over to Casa Potter to hex your husband."
"What does this have to do with Harry?"
"Absolutely nothing. Emilio wants any chance to hex your husband."
The two witches chuckled for a solid five minutes. When they finally settled themselves, Hermione begged a favor. "Since we are in such a humorous mood, I'm going to ask you for a favor."
Hannah gave Hermione a soft glare. "When has it ever been necessary for you to beg for anything? Whatever you need I will do. How can I help?"
Hermione grinned at her best witch. "I need you to babysit Scorp next Saturday. MCC has a new client which is having a business event."
"Done and done. Have you told young Malfoy that he will be in the care of Harry and Hannah Potter while you are off on a date night?"
Hermione reached over to give Hannah a pinch on the arm. "No Hannah. I haven't mentioned it to anyone since I wasn't sure your husband would be willing to babysit my progeny."
"Really Mrs. Malfoy. I just might refuse because of your… Never mind. I wouldn't refuse you anything. I hope you know this means you will have to take care of Harry when I enter St Mungos to deliver our little one."
Hermione keeled over in laughter. "Never mind. I'll find another babysitter because I will never agree to take care of Head Auror Potter."
"Bullshite. Excuse my language. No matter how much you two argue. Harry is your hero. He probably would have asked for your hand in marriage if Draco hadn't beat him to it."
"You stinking waddler, you're barking. The function is Saturday, 11/7. Will you be collecting Scorp, or do you want Emilio to drop him off?"
"I'll collect Scorp. No need to get the handsome wizard involved."
"Thought so. Come into the kitchen while I fix Scorp's lunch. You hungry? I can fix your waddling arse some oatmeal."
Hannah was chuckling as she followed Hermione to the kitchen. "Do not play me cheap. My waddling arse wants a burger or nothing."
"I love you Mrs. Potter. A burger it is."
/*/
Theo's last appointment had run long and he was hurriedly documenting the results in order to be ready for Seth and Sal. He had located a prime ghost property in the west of London he felt would suit their needs. The sellers were wizards who wanted to sell but didn't want the public to know.
At 3:30 on the dot, Seth and Sal appeared at his door. Theo was ready.
"Theo greeted Sal and Seth with an extended hand. "Hello mates. Come on through. I have something I think will interest you."
Sal and Seth glanced at each other. Theo Nott Realtor extraordinaire had come through.
Sal was chuffed. "Talk to us Mr. Realtor. Seth and I have been scouring the wilds of Devon. We thought we had a property to discuss with you, but we will defer to the professional. Show us something good."
Theo let out a loud laugh as he laid the information out in front of Sal and Seth. "Really? You were scouting Devon. I thought you wanted something in London."
"We do Theo, however, there wasn't anything available."
Giving the two wizards a cheeky wink, Theo explained what was what. "You have to know where to look and who to strong arm."
All three wizards had a good laugh.
Seth was first to come out of his suit coat and roll up his shirt sleeves. "Alright Mr Realtor, Mr. Strong Arm. Show us what you have."
Sal offered his two cents. "Pay him no mind Theo. We know you've seen SSE Milan and a few of the satellite branches. If you think this property is what we need, we'll take it sight unseen."
Seth tried to hide a chuckle which didn't work as it turned into a loud guffaw when he saw the look on Theo's face. "My partner is being an arse. We will review and discuss as any astute business wizard would do. Kindly share the property information. If Sal says another word, hex him."
Theo let out a soft sigh thinking these two jokers better not be wasting his time or he would hex the both of them.
/*/
Emilio who was reviewing stats on a lower tier company that Nicholas had left on his desk nearly reached for his wand when Matt came barreling into his office. He gave Matt a quick glance then turned his eyes back to the information in front of him. "Merlin Matt. I thought I was being attacked. I was ready to draw my wand."
A furious looking Matt sat there fuming saying nothing.
When he didn't get a response, Emilio put the paperwork aside and took a good look at Matt. The cheeky reply he had on the tip of his tongue died before leaving his mouth. It seemed that the conversation he and Matt were about to have needed to be done behind a closed door. "Talk to me Matt. What has happened? Is it Gas? Is everything alright with Seth and Sal? Say something."
"Chloe Knight."
Okay, Chloe Knight. I thought that was over and done. How has anything to do with her gotten you in this state?"
"I'm not in a state cousin. I'm furious."
Emilio rolled his eyes. "Semantics Matt, but whatever. "Either explain the problem or stop grumbling and sit there quietly while I finish reviewing this lower tier company Nicholas submitted for my input."
Matt stood to leave the office, but Emilio asked him to stay. "Before you leave this office, I'll need you to calm down."
Running a hand through his hair, Matt finally spoke. "My apologies for turning your office into some kind of wailing wall. You may now add imbecile to my other attributes of wanderer and cuckold."
Emilio listened without commenting. Matt obviously wanted to discuss the problem but was having a hard time getting there.
"I've canceled the Whitehall Presentation. Instead of being here acting like a bloody fool, I should be advising Gas, Richard and Nicholas."
Emilio didn't hesitate. He rang Gas' private line. When Gas picked up, he explained that the Whitehall Presentation has been canceled and might not be rescheduled. Emilio went on to say he had reviewed a prospective new company Nicholas submitted for review and felt it should be handed to Nicholas and Richard. After speaking to Gas, Emilio turned to Matt.
"Done and done. When you're through running your hands through your hair, you can address Whitehall with Gas. I'm beginning to think all this has something to do with Miss Knight."
"And you'd be right on the mark. My lovely one off appeared in my office to tell me she had been notified the presentation would be done by Richard and Nicholas. She wasn't happy and proceeded to read me the riot act about sending our second string to Edinburgh because she had every intention of introducing me to daddy. That would be the same daddy she introduced to Sal. She was also upset because she had to wait for over an hour to see me. After what she pulled, the witch is barking if she thinks I want to meet daddy or want any more of that get around pussy."
Emilio couldn't help it, he let out a loud chuckle. "I'm sorry cousin, but in all the years I've known you, I've never heard you utter the word pussy."
Matt let out a chuckle of his own. "Yes, there is that, but can you imagine her calling Richard and Nicholas second string. They'd do a dance around the cleverest Whitehall employee. Long story short, she said her father probably wouldn't want to hear from anyone other than the top man. I told her I'd save her daddy the stress of having to receive our second string. I canceled the presentation and left her standing there looking outdone. Oh yes. I told her daddy could contact you or Gas if he wants to reconsider. I don't like losing any client, but I'm at peace with this one. There you have it."
Emilio shook his head as he handed Matt the new company folder. "Chloe Knight, the gift that keeps on giving. Please have a chat with Gas. I don't want him to think we are making decisions without him.
"Will do. However, in this instance, it is a unilateral decision. Oh, by the way. Hermione asked me to look up some material for Louis. I think I've found some of what she-he is looking for. I'd ask you to take it to Hermione, but I want to be there to see Louis' face, if you don't mind."
"Finally, back to CEO." Emilio snarked, clapping Matt on the back. "I don't mind and I'm sure Hermione won't mind. She's all excited about finding what Louis wants. What Louis wants, he usually gets or he'll pout for a week."
Both men laughed as Matt said he needed a refresh spell before greeting the masses. Emilio seconded the comment as Matt left his office.
All Emilio could say was wow. Chloe Knight reminded him of Marissa. He was in the middle of a cringe when he looked up to see Nicholas at the door. Quickly straightening up, Emilio invited him in to discuss The Polaris brothers.
/*/
Hannah had eaten and run. Scorp had eaten and was supposed to be watching telly, but was more than likely sleeping. Hermione was sitting in the study going over the items she would be presenting to Louis that evening. She was imagining the actual smile that would appear on Louis' face when her mobile rang. Emilio Lozier was calling.
Hello love.
Hello Mrs Hermione.
How is your day going?
It was just another day until I heard your lovely voice. I would have called earlier but Matt, Gas and I were in meetings all morning. Anyway, I'm calling now. Matt has fulfilled your wishes.
My wishes? And just what are my wishes Mr. Lozier?
He didn't get too far into it, but I believe he's found what Louis is looking for. He'll be coming through with me after work. I hope you don't mind.
Hermione was excited.
Of course I don't mind, especially if he comes bearing gifts. I've found a few things myself. We'll present them to Louis after dinner.
Sounds like a plan. Why don't I hear my someday son?
Scorp is having his nap, otherwise he'd be at my side waiting to find out who is on the phone. I know this is a never ending story with Scorp, but today he recognized Aunty Hannah's stomach. She and I explained about her and Harry having a baby. He went through a whole litany of questions before finally remarking that he'll be glad when you and I have enough money saved up to get us a baby. I will not repeat what your favorite, pregnant witch whispered to me.
Hahaha. I can imagine. I'll be having words with her.
Hermione laughed out loud.
If you do, I think you'll only embarrass yourself. We're having baked chicken tonight. If you're good and Matt doesn't stay too long, you'll be having a nice dessert.
Lowering his voice, Emilio whispered a few things before telling Hermione he loved her and would see her about 7-7:30.
Alright love. Scorp and I will see you later. Have a good afternoon.
I've spoken to my fiancee. How could it not be a good afternoon? Love you.
Hermione leaned back in the chair thanking Merlin once again that Emilio Lozier had waited for her.
/*/
After his conversation with Hermione, Emilio remained at his desk thinking salacious thoughts about dessert when his eyes wandered to a notation on his calendar, James. He immediately rang his assistant explaining his need to reserve a suite at The Luxe for Minister James Wooley starting Friday morning through Sunday evening.
Emilio waited for confirmation of the reservation before going to find Gas or Matt to see how things had gone at Fieldcrest.
"Done and done."