Chapter Notes:

Not in my house

Emilio meets Harry, Ginny and Ron

A discussion with Ginny

Emilio is a hit as a cook

Draco works behind the scenes

I choose…..

Story Notes:

Remember readers: As you read the next few chapters (3-5) and are ready to storm the castle and kill this author, this is Dramione. We will get there. In order to forward this story, there has to be stops along the way.

Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards: I've Wanted This For So Long

Hermione blushed. She loved it when Emilio paid her a compliment. It was just a little embarrassing in front of another person. Emilio kissed Hermione and whispered in her ear, "I'll have to keep you very close tonight. Any wizard with eyes will want you."

Then he stepped back to look at Hermione again. Celia was getting antsy and had remarked, "If you two are through making out, may we go? I'm the one carrying the heavy stuff."

Hermione laughed, "Poor thing. You get stuck carrying the food and the beer. Let me help you."

Harry's floo was open to the public for the party so guests could floo in if they desired. Hermione, Emilio and Celia chose to floo in. One at a time they shouted out Harry's address. When they stepped into Harry's floo room, Emilio brushed a few stray bits of ash off Hermione and Celia before turning to kiss Hermione on the nose.

Hermione and Celia handed the Brussels sprouts and celery and the Guinness over to a house elf.

As the trio moved toward the party area a voice drawled, "Aren't you the wizard Lozier? You get to have two witches on your arm. Why don't I take one of them off your hands? I'll take Granger. We can talk about her trip to Milan."

Hermione automatically put her hand on Emilio's arm.

Emilio stepped away from Hermione's hand and snarled, "You won't be taking Hermione anywhere. We've all grown up Malfoy. It's time you found your own witch. Try it, instead of coming round the back door. Not up to the task of finding a witch by yourself then? That doesn't surprise me in the least."

With his hand at his wand, Draco had taken two steps forward when Celia chirped, "Draco Malfoy. It's been a long time. You may take me. Hermione is spoken for."

Chapter 3: A Choice Is Made

Draco turned around growling. "Who the hell-?"

Celia retorted in a sing song voice. "Celia Lozier. I know you haven't forgotten me. Why don't you calm down and get us a drink. We can talk over the old times in Belgium. You remember Belgium don't you? You loved me. You couldn't get enough of me. You wanted me twenty four hours a day. You'd never leave me. And then you snuck out like a thief in the night. That Celia."

Draco glanced in Hermione's direction.

Then he looked at Emilio and snarled. "What Lozier? Decide to bring in the troops then? Didn't think you could hang onto your witch without help? You bring your sister here and set her in my path. To what end? The simple truth is you don't want Hermione to take a position with me. Are you afraid of her success? Is this what it's all about? You need to step out of wizard business."

Suddenly Harry appeared at the door shouting. "What the fuck is going on out here? All I can hear is you Malfoy. Did you decide to have a full blown shouting match in my floo room? That's not happening. If you want to argue Malfoy, take it somewhere else."

Draco strode off.

Harry saw Hermione and walked over to kiss her cheek and hug her. He turned to Emilio and held out his hand. "You must be Emilio. I've heard a lot about you. Good to meet you. I'm Harry. I think I've seen you around the Ministry. Why don't you two come to the ballroom. Everyone is inside."

Emilio took a few seconds to introduce Celia to Harry. Harry nodded at Celia and led the way to the ballroom.

Hermione grabbed on to Emilio's arm. She was still reeling from the run in with Draco. What the hell just happened? Hermione didn't know what Emilio meant by, we've all grown up. It's time to find your own witch. It sounded suspiciously like Emilio and Draco knew each other a little better than Hermione imagined.

Harry led Hermione, Emilio and Celia to the ballroom and suddenly Hermione was inundated by red heads. Ginny and Ron had come at her at a run and grabbed her up in hugs. Ron being so much bigger than Ginny had grabbed Hermione up in his arms and swung her around. When he finally put Hermione down, Ginny stepped in to hug her. Ginny and Hermione were laughing and crying at the same time.

Harry stood off to the side laughing at the spectacle.

When everyone had hugged everyone, Ron asked, "What have you done Hermione. You look amazing. Doesn't she Gin?"

"Yes she does. She's our beautiful Hermione. Now that we have squeezed Hermione half to death and completely ignored the handsome wizard standing beside her, I think it's time we got an introduction."

Hermione put her arm through Emilio's. "Ginny Weasley, Ron Weasley. I'd like you to meet my wizard, Emilio Lozier." Ron and Emilio shook hands and Ginny gave him a hug.

Hermione turned to Celia and introduced her. "Ron, Ginny. This is Celia Lozier, Emilio's sister. Ron gave Celia a look up and down and Celia gave Ron a look up and down.

Hermione thought, those knickers will be at Ron's feet before the night is over.

Hermione looked up to see Draco over the other side of the room scowling. Hermione also saw Celia start across the room out of the corner of her eye. Celia has to be good. I think she's going to try to juggle Draco and Ron.

Emilio put his arms around Hermione when she asked if he was ready to meet the group.

Emilio kissed her head. "I'm ready love. Lead on."

Hermione took Emilio around. She introduced him to Padma, Michael, Hannah, Terry, Anthony, Luna, Neville, Megan, Susan, Ernie, Justin and the list went on. Seamus and Dean came up to say hello and shake Emilio's hand as well.

Emilio whispered, "I'll never remember all these names."

Hermione laughed, "They'll remember yours especially since I see your sprouts and celery on everybody's plate."

Grinning, Emilio suggested they go get a drink.

Halfway to drinks Ginny grabbed Emilio. "Let's dance big boy."

Emilio looked at Hermione who nodded her head.

/*/

Hermione walked over to the drinks and was chatting with Hannah Abbott when Draco came up to stand beside her.

Draco ignored Hannah speaking directly to Hermione. "I apologize for my earlier behavior. I was out of line. Not that I care, but I think your boyfriend doesn't like me. I don't think he wants you to interview with me, but he should not be a consideration on whether or not you accept the position. It's your life so you should make an informed decision without his input. I really need someone with your brains and commitment to run the Milan office. Give me a fair chance before you turn me down."

Hermione crooked an eyebrow at him.

"Let me rephrase," smirked Draco. "I hope you will take my job offer seriously."

Hermione automatically reached out to Draco. "Apology accepted."

Draco automatically (or not) put his hand over Hermione's hand. "You look amazing tonight Hermione." A small jolt passed between their hands and Hermione pulled her hand back with Draco doing the same.

"That's the second time Granger," snorted Draco. "Are you trying to electrocute me?"

At this moment Celia came up behind Draco and wrapped her arms around his waist and laid her head on his back.

For one second, Draco caught Hermione's eye and it seemed as though he was pleading with her to understand something.

Hermione didn't understand. She smiled. "Enjoy yourselves. It will be just like the old times in Belgium."

Celia laughed. "It will be better than Belgium."

Hermione turned her back on Celia and Draco and walked over to Luna and Neville.

After three dances, Ginny finally released Emilio back to Hermione and he came back grinning. "Ginny is a bundle of energy."

Hermione grinned. "She always been a handful."

"Do you want something to eat?" Emilio asked.

Hermione shook her head.

"Well then let's dance." Hermione let Emilio lead her to the dance floor where he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close.

Hermione looked up to meet Draco Malfoy's gray eyes once more. He was scowling in her direction even as Celia whispered in his ear.

"What were you and Malfoy talking about? That bloke doesn't know how to give it a rest."

Hermione laid her head on Emilio's shoulder. "He came over to apologize for his behavior. He seems to think you don't want me to take his interview."

Emilio remained silent.

Hermione raised her head to look at Emilio. "What's going on?"

"It's very simple Hermione. Malfoy and I want the same witch. He won't admit it because if he says it out loud, that would make him the cad as you are currently dating me. But, that's what it's all about. He's a petulant little fuck who will do anything to get his way. And he's right, I don't want you to take his interview, but I'm here for you and will support you in whatever you want to do. I've waited for you Hermione. I'm still waiting and I'm not going to give up. I won't standby and let you be spirited away from me and I will not take any bullshite from Draco Malfoy."

Hermione reached up to kiss Emilio. "I don't expect you to take any bull shite from Draco. I believe you are mistaken in your belief Draco wants me. Draco is and always has been arrogant. He wants someone to run his business and he has settled on me. He will be an arsehole to anyone he thinks stands in the way of me taking the position. Maybe I should just cancel the interview. He would be angry, but it would put everything back to right with us."

Emilio felt his heart leap. He didn't want Hermione to take the interview and he definitely didn't want Hermione to take the job. Emilio wanted this witch by his side in London. Those were his first thoughts, but in reality, Emilio knew that any interference from him might end up causing Hermione to resent him.

"As much as I don't want you away from me, I want you to go to Milan. I want you to find out if being an import/export queen is up your alley. If it is, I know you'll be brilliant. If it isn't, there's always Gringotts as an alternative."

Hermione hugged Emilio tighter. "I think I'll keep you."

Emilio laughed. "Good. Because I definitely plan on keeping you."

Harry came up and tapped Emilio on the shoulder.

"Are you looking to dance with my date Potter?" Hermione quipped.

Harry laughed. "No Hermione. I'm here to find out if it's true Emilio made the sprouts and celery everyone is raving about."

"Guilty as charged," uttered Emilio.

"Well if Hermione doesn't marry you, I will. That dish is brilliant. I'll be stopping by the flat to get more. Keep your clothes on."

Hermione blushed and shouted, "Harry!" Emilio laughed out loud.

When Harry walked away, Emilio smirked "See. I have prospects too." Hermione laughed so hard she began to choke. Emilio dragged her over to the drinks to get her some water while Harry ran over to see if she was okay.

Celia and Draco were still standing by the drinks. "Be careful Granger. I need you alive, or perhaps this is all a ploy so you can get close enough to electrocute me again?"

Before Emilio could open his mouth, Harry intervened. "What the fuck Malfoy? This isn't Hogwarts. Do you have to make a comment to Hermione every time you see her? You have a witch falling all over you. She not doing the job then? That shite in my floo room was more than enough."

Hermione hugged Harry. "This is your party Harry. Everyone is here to have a good time. Go enjoy yourself."

Harry hugged Hermione back. "Draco is my mate, but he can be a real git sometimes."

Hermione kissed Harry on the cheek telling him to go back to his party.

Hermione turned to Draco, "Enough Malfoy. We are aware you have asked me to work for you. Stop with the innuendo. It's not becoming and it's getting damned annoying. Celia is on your arm. Why not tend to her? She has missed your…ministrations or so I've heard. Be warned, if you keep this up, I will electrocute your arse."

Hermione grabbed Emilio by the hand and headed towards Ginny.

/*/

Draco was in a snit as he turned to Celia. "Have you told the whole of Britain we used to date?"

Serenely Celia remarked, "No. Just Hermione. Emilio already knew."

Draco got another whiskey. He thought to himself, everybody has shagged somebody at one time or another. That's no surprise. I just didn't want Granger to know the particulars. Fucking big mouth Celia never could keep her business to herself. I'll have to try another tack. I do have one thing going for me. Hermione has not let Lozier into her knickers. I can tell. It's a wizard thing. If she had, Emilio would hold her differently. He'd run his fingers through her hair. He'd nuzzle her neck. He'd push her hair back off her face. I've seen none of these things. Hermione Granger is still up for grabs.

Celia pulled Draco out of his reverie. She wanted to dance and began pulling Draco towards the dance area. Draco started to pull away then remembered Hermione's blush Tuesday at lunch. Granger wants me, but she needs help realizing it. Maybe watching me dance with another witch will be the push she needs to step up.

Draco realized too late he should have set up some parameters with Celia. As soon as Celia was in his arms, she became an octopus with her hands all over him. She almost wanked him off in the middle of Harry's ballroom. Draco finally pinned her arms, but it was too late. He glanced over at Hermione and came face to face with her utter look of disgust.

Seamus yelled out, "Get a room. There are witches present."

Draco waved Seamus off.

Emilio saw it as well and was humiliated. He excused himself, went over to Celia, said something in her ear and half dragged her into another room.

Draco went to the men's room to adjust himself.

/*/

While Emilio was off reading the riot act to his sister, Hermione pulled Ginny aside. "Can we chat for a bit? I want to run something by you."

Ginny grabbed Hermione by the arm and led her through to Harry's living room.

Hermione didn't know how to start so she just started. "I want to take the next step with Emilio. I think he loves me. He noticed me even before I left the Ministry even before my makeover.

Ginny cautiously stated, "There's a big but coming up. I can feel it. How do you feel about Emilio?'

"He's wonderful. I could love him. Before I went through my makeover, I promised myself I wouldn't fall for the first available wizard because I wanted to experience dating and romancing before I found the wizard. But I could definitely fall in love with Emilio."

Ginny nodded.

Hermione continued. "Something else has happened. I have agreed to interview with Draco Malfoy for a position in his Milan office."

Ginny's eyes grew wide. "Don't you fucking tell me you're falling for Draco Malfoy. Don't you even say it."

Hermione threw up a muffliato.

Ginny raged on. "Are you fucking telling me that you have a wizard like Emilio hot for you and you are looking at Malfoy? Come on Hermione. Wake up. Did you see the spectacle he made of himself on the dance floor? Is that the kind of wizard you want?"

Hermione released the muffliato, dragged Ginny into one of the bedrooms and threw up locking and silencing charms.

Ginny took a couple of deep breaths. "Why are we in this room under locking and silencing spells? It's true or it's not. You are developing feelings for Draco Malfoy or you aren't. If it's true, get your arse out there and tell Emilio the truth. He seems a good bloke. He deserves the truth. If you aren't, grab Emilio and love him as hard as you can."

Hermione softly replied. "It's not that simple Ginny. There is some kind of spark between Draco and myself. It's nothing definitive. He has made some moves, but I don't know if they are in relation to the position he wants me to take or something more. I just don't want to move forward with Emilio to find out I would be happier with someone else."

Ginny sighed. "Think about it Hermione. You've hidden yourself away for five years. Now you've had a makeover and suddenly you are around two of the most gorgeous wizards in London. Maybe it is simply a case of your ego making you think Malfoy is interested in you. Maybe the spark with Draco is all in your mind. If you have any intention of shagging Malfoy, break up with Emilio now. Whatever you do Hermione, do it right and be sure. Just don't wait so long somebody gets hurt."

Ginny and Hermione stood up and hugged each other. "Thanks Gin."

Hermione released the locking and silencing charms and the witches headed back to the ballroom.

/*/

When Hermione entered the ballroom, Emilio was talking to Harry, Ron and Leanne Moon. Hermione thought Leanne was standing way too close to Emilio, but shrugged it off.

Emilio looked up to see her coming across the floor and his face lit up in a wide grin.

Hermione surprised herself as her stomach jumped when she caught Emilio's eye. She had missed him in the fifteen minutes she was with Ginny. Maybe she was being silly like Ginny said. Maybe it was ego. When Hermione reached Emilio, she almost had to elbow Leanne out of the way to hug him. Hermione thought it a little strange, but this fact wouldn't register until later.

Right in front of Hermione, Leanne asked Emilio to dance.

Emilio ever the gentleman politely declined. "Thank you for asking Leanne, but I'm with Hermione. She's the witch I'll be dancing with."

Leanne spoke out of turn. "You danced with Ginny. She's not your witch."

Hermione quietly replied. "You're out of line Leanne. Take that shite somewhere else."

Leanne appeared to be spoiling for a fight. "I'm out of line? For almost five years you've ignored Emilio. He wasn't important enough for you to notice. Now you think you own him?"

Emilio stepped in. "Enough Leanne. You are out of line."

Hermione looked at Emilio and instantly she knew. Emilio had some kind of connection to Leanne. Maybe he had taken her out. Maybe he had shagged her. Whatever it was. There was a connection.

The shoe was on the other foot. Hermione didn't like another witch taking authority over Emilio and she had snapped. "What is this? Have I stepped into the middle of a family situation? Let me know and I'll be glad to excuse myself."

Emilio grabbed her hand but Hermione shook him off.

Ginny was at Hermione's side in a second speaking softly. "Stop Hermione. Stop right now. Why don't you go to the ladies and compose yourself?"

Hermione turned and headed for the bathroom. By the time she reached the bathroom, she had calmed somewhat and tried to justify what she had just seen. Leanne and Emilio as a couple? Why not? Emilio's a wizard who needed comfort from somewhere. Hermione's only problem with Emilio was why hadn't he made his relationship with her clear to Leanne. Why was Leanne hanging on for another taste of his dick? This last thought pissed Hermione off to no end. Was Emilio keeping Leanne on the side in case things didn't work out between them? Hermione didn't want to think about it anymore. She fixed her make up and went back to the ballroom.

Hermione found Harry. "Thanks for the party handsome. I had a great time."

Harry recognized that Hermione was in a mood so he only said, "Goodnight Hermione. Thanks for coming."

Hermione said basically the same thing to Ginny and Ron. To everyone else she waved and headed to the floo.

Draco watched the scene from beginning to end. Hermione might need my comfort, he thought.

While Hermione finished saying her goodbyes, Draco headed to the floo room. He was determined to comfort Hermione for as long as she liked and as hard as she liked. Fuck Lozier.

After saying goodbye, Hermione headed directly for the floo. She didn't look left or right.

Emilio called after her. "Hermione wait," but she hadn't slowed down.

She was about to step into the floo when Draco grabbed her arm and called out, "My flat."

/*/

When they stepped out of the floo, Hermione found herself at Draco Malfoy's flat. She reached out to slap Draco, but he caught her hand. "I only want to comfort you. I want to be with you. Don't be angry."

Hermione started to cry and Draco pulled her into his arms. He kissed her forehead. He kissed her hair. He kissed her lips and Hermione kissed him back.

Draco had Hermione in his arms and she was kissing him back. He didn't think about anything else. This was what he wanted. He moved them to the bedroom as he unbuckled the belt around Hermione's waist and pulled her jumper down to her ankles. Hermione was kissing his neck and his shoulder and Draco was on fire like never before. He had her shoes off then he had her jumper off. He carried Hermione to the bed and laid her down.

In a hoarse voice Draco asked permission. "May I do this?"

"Just love me." Hermione responded.

Draco finished taking off Hermione's clothes, undressed himself and climbed in beside her. He was shaking because he wanted Hermione so badly. At first it had been arrogance. He had wanted a beautiful witch, but it had changed. He had changed. He had begun to fall for Hermione Granger. He wanted her.

Draco put his mouth on her and she crackled. Draco slid his tongue between Hermione's legs and she let out little gasps of pleasure. Then he shifted so he could put two fingers inside Hermione placing his thumb on her clit. Draco wanted to be looking at Hermione when he made her cum.

Suddenly there was a commotion from his floo area. Draco hadn't thought to lock his floo. He had been too intent on Hermione. Fortunately, he had the presence of mind to throw up a locking charm on his bedroom door. He could hear Potter and Lozier calling for Hermione.

Hermione sat up horrified it had come to this. Draco told her to get dressed and use his bedroom floo to go home. Before Hermione stepped into the floo, Draco put both hands on the sides of her face and kissed her as he held onto her hand for one extra second. "All I want is a chance."

/*/

Draco waited several minutes before stepping into the floo calling out. "Malfoy Manor." Once at the manor, Draco turned right around and flooed back into the main floo area of his flat to find Harry and Emilio still there.

Draco acted outraged, "What the fuck Potter? No where else to go but my flat?"

Emilio stepped forward. "Where's Hermione?"

"Probably where you left her," snapped Draco. "Lost your witch have you and you want to blame me? What'd you say earlier Potter? That's not happening. You should try to keep a better eye on her."

Emilio shouted. "You fucking tosser. Get Hermione out here and get her out here now."

Draco laughed.

Emilio shouted, "Crucio."

Harry yelled. "Emilio. Wand down. Now."

Emilio put his wand down and lowered his head. "My apologies Harry. I can't stomach this fucking git."

Draco got up from where he fell screaming. "I'll have your job and your arse for this Lozier. You fucking think to use a Crucio on me and get away with it. Think again. You can't hold on to your witch and you Crucio me? Fuck you. If you don't arrest his arse Potter. I'll have your job as well."

Harry tried to bring a little order to the situation, but Draco would not be calmed.

Without blinking, Draco had his wand in his hand and screamed. "Crucio. Crucio. Crucio. Now, how does that feel you fucking piece of shite."

Harry was a little bit relieved. He didn't want to have to arrest Emilio. If Draco hadn't returned the Crucio he would have had to. As it stood, both wizards were level. If Harry could keep it from escalating any further, no one would have to be arrested.

Harry shouted again. "Wand down Draco. Now."

Draco lowered his wand and spat. "Just get the fuck out of my flat. You may think we're level Lozier. Think again. Now get out."

Emilio pushed himself up off the floor. He felt like an arse now that he knew Hermione wasn't with Draco. He had burst into Draco's flat for nothing. He muttered a short apology. "My apologies Malfoy. I made an error in judgment."

However, Draco was still in a rage and didn't want to hear any of it. "Fuck you Lozier. You think an apology will end this? Get out of my flat now. I hope your fucking witch has left you for good. You don't deserve her."

Emilio had turned around and come back into the room screaming. "And you think you do? And you think you do? I'll see you dead before I see you with Hermione." Emilio then strode to the floo and stepped through.

Harry tried to settle Draco down. "Will you please calm down Draco. This will come to no good." He walked over to Draco's liquor cabinet, poured a fire whiskey and handed it to him.

Draco took the drink and downed it in one. "This isn't over Potter. You can leave. I'm going to bed," as he silently removed the locking spell on his bedroom door.

Harry followed him into the bedroom. Draco knew Harry was checking to see if Hermione was there, but he didn't comment.

Harry took one more look around sniping, "It's nice to have a floo in your bedroom. Isn't it? Have a good night."

/*/

Hermione stepped out of her floo carrying her shoes, outfit and belt in her hand. She locked her floo because she wasn't up to seeing Emilio or anyone else. She grabbed her clothes and vanished every piece including shoes into nothingness. Then she headed for the bathroom. She needed a shower.

As the water poured down on her, Hermione began to cry. She almost had sex with Draco Malfoy. If Harry and Emilio hadn't burst into the flat she would be another notch on Malfoy's belt. She watched his earlier performance on the dance floor with Celia and still ended up in his bed. Maybe what Ginny said was true. She'd been a dowdy lobbyist for five years. Now that she'd transformed herself, she wanted to have a hand in more than one pie. What would she say to Emilio? Should she just go ahead and break it off? She felt dirty so she scrubbed and scrubbed until her skin was raw.

Emilio treated her like a queen yet she wouldn't even entertain the thought of being intimate with him. She had seen Draco Malfoy three times and was willing to let him shag her.

She cried harder.

When she finished her shower, Hermione changed into her pajamas. She made herself a cup of tea and sat on the couch chastising herself over and over. Would she lie to save her relationship with Emilio? She didn't know. She had always prided herself on telling the truth. She wasn't going to change now.

Hermione was startled by the tapping on the window and got up slowly to retrieve the message.

The message was from Draco:

I apologize. That was not how it was supposed to go. I want to wine and dine you. I want to take you dancing. I want to hold you out on my arm. I want you to want to be with me. I did a very stupid thing tonight because I became inflamed by being with you. I hope you will forgive me. I will never mention to another soul what transpired tonight. You and I will not have to speak of this again. I will leave you to your life. Whether you include me in that life is up to you. I'll wait. Draco Malfoy doesn't apologize often, so please take this apology for what it's worth. I am deeply sorry the night turned out as it did.

DLM.

Hermione read Draco's note over twice then she vanished it into nothingness along side her clothes.

Hermione's mobile rang. She took a deep breath and said hello. It was Harry on the other end asking if she was alright and telling her she had given them a scare running out like that. He asked if she'd seen Emilio because he was worried sick.

Hermione told Harry that she was fine and just had to get out of there. "I know I was being silly. Emilio is a grown wizard who's obviously had other relationships. I just didn't like them sprung on me in public. I'm really okay Harry. It was a lovely party."

"Okay. Just as long as you're alright. Hermione? As one best friend to another. If you were with Draco tonight, you don't really want Emilio. Let him go. He's in love with you. It will kill him to find out you are with him, but doing things with another wizard. I'll talk to you later."

Harry didn't have to tell her Emilio was in love with her. She knew it. She could tell by his touch, his manners, his treatment of her. Emilio loved her. She liked being with him, but did she love him? Was she infatuated with Emilio because he was the first wizard who had taken an interest in her? It was confusing. Everything had been fine until she began to feel Draco Malfoy.

Hermione knew she had to get this sorted and decided she would answer any question honestly. She also knew she would not intentionally hurt Emilio. Suddenly, she was tired of thinking and needed rest. She fell into her bed and as she drifted off to sleep she wondered what Emilio was doing.

/*/

Saturday morning, Hermione dragged herself out of bed even though she didn't have to. There wouldn't be anyone coming to see about her. More than likely she didn't have a boyfriend anymore. Thinking back over the prior evening, she cringed when she thought about being in Draco's bed. What a slag she turned out to be. Draco didn't even have to buy her a drink before trying to shag her. Hermione ended up telling herself to get over it. She was a grown witch and would take whatever came.

The whatever came sooner than Hermione expected when her doorbell rang. She thought it could only be Emilio. The floo was locked so he had come to the front door. Hermione heaved a heavy sigh as she answered the door.

Emilio had brought breakfast. He kissed her on the nose and proceeded straight to the kitchen. "I've brought breakfast in case you couldn't tell."

Hermione smiled at him. "You'll spoil me rotten Emilio."

Emilio mumbled. "That's what I mean to do."

Hermione went over and hugged him. For the briefest second Emilio didn't know whether to hug her back. Then he had wrapped his arms around her and kissed the top of her head.

Hermione grinned up at Emilio. "Hair kisser."

Emilio laughed out loud. Hermione laughed as well.

Deep down inside Hermione was sad. Draco Malfoy had scuttled everything. Hermione used to be happy in Emilio's company. Now she wondered what it would be like if it was Draco there instead of Emilio.

She sighed again.

Emilio sat next to her on the couch taking Hermione's hands in his kissing them one at a time.

"I'm sorry about last night Hermione. Leanne was bang out of order. I didn't think it necessary to hash over old acquaintances, but I see I was mistaken. I have been with Leanne.

Two years ago I asked to take you out but you vigorously declined."

"I vigorously declined did I?"

Emilio smiled and continued. "I was feeling a bit down when Leanne started to come round. She and I chatted a bit every day and I finally asked her out. She and I dated for four or five months. At the tail end of it, Leanne was angry because I wouldn't move forward. I actually couldn't move forward because a brilliant lobbyist had my fancy. I couldn't see myself with anyone other than her. Leanne and I just trickled off. I stopped asking and she stopped coming round. I was okay with that because I wanted you. I waited quietly in the background thankful you hadn't taken up with someone else right up until the day I heard you were leaving. I decided to try one more time, but that didn't work out too well. By the time I gathered enough courage to ask you out again, you were gone, spirited away by your colleagues to some retirement party. After you left the Ministry, there were times I sought Leanne's attentions. As bad as it sounds, it was for physical reasons and nothing more. Then I ran into you in Diagon Alley and knew I was in it for good or for bad, so I asked you out. To my surprise, you accepted. The rest, as muggles say, is history."

Hermione moved her hands to the back of Emilio's neck then into his hair. Emilio closed his eyes and let Hermione play in his hair. He was in heaven. If Hermione never stopped, it would be alright with him.

"I was being silly last night. I should have talked it over with you. Instead, I ran away like a silly little Hogwarts third year. I'm sorry. I know I caused all kinds of worry. Harry called me last night to make sure I was okay. I was too embarrassed to call you. I thought you would have had enough of me by then."

Emilio took Hermione's hand from his hair and leaned into her whispering. "My love. I will never have enough of you. I want you in my life. I want you in my bed. I will never get enough. That is my intent"

Hermione leaned against Emilio's shoulder. "I recognize your intentions, but I still have some doubts within myself. I do not want to accept your intentions and be wrong. Forgive me for being so blunt. I recognize how you feel about me, but I'm not ready to set a life path. I wouldn't want to hurt you, but neither do I plan on leaving you."

Emilio kissed Hermione's hands again. "I am in love with you Hermione and I appreciate your honesty. The only way you could hurt me is to lie to me. If a day ever comes and you realize you are meant to be with someone else, just tell me because it would kill me to find out on my own."

Hermione murmured. "I promise."

Hermione had made her choice. She would stay with Emilio.

Hermione had a feeling Emilio knew she had been in that room with Draco. She had a feeling he thought she had betrayed him. As long as she never spoke the words out of her mouth, Emilio would choose to believe otherwise. She would never utter a syllable of what happened after she left Harry's. It was a secret she would take to the grave if necessary. She would move on with her life and love Emilio as hard as she could.

Hermione had her head on Emilio's chest. "Would you like to go with Celia and myself as we comb the wilds of London? Celia really wants to see some of the city before she leaves."

Hermione had begged off telling Emilio she wanted to catch up on some sleep, suggesting they take Celia to Witch-Wizard that evening.

Emilio kissed Hermione. "Sounds good. I will see you in a bit."

/*/

Hermione went back to bed and fell asleep quickly. She dreamt of a thousand owls jockeying to get into her window. All the messages read exactly the same. All I want is a chance.

Hermione slept right through to 6:00 pm when Celia came rushing into her bedroom. "Come on. Get up. Emilio says if we're good he'll take us to the pub."

Hermione laughed and raised her voice. "We don't have to be good. I know my way to the pub."

Emilio laughed and called out. "Touché."

Although she was laughing. Hermione felt a little sadness inside. Had Emilio sent Celia in because he thought she might be with someone? Hermione then mentally kicked herself. She hadn't ever invited him into her bedroom.

Hermione jumped out of bed. "Get yourself some wine and a muggle beer for your adorable brother. I'll be out in a few."

Hermione quickly showered and dressed. She chose a white, close fitting sheath accessorized with red. She wore her hair in a loose pony tail and used a small touch of liner on her eyes. She spelled her bag red as well. She got her wand and was ready to go.

It had only taken her forty minutes which must be some kind of record. When she walked into the living room, Emilio made a wolf whistle.

"You're only whistling at me because I'm your witch."

Emilio grinned as wide as he could. That was the first time Hermione had properly referred to herself as his witch. He liked the sound of it.

Before they left, Hermione sent a quick note to Harry telling him to come to Witch-Wizard and bring Ginny and Ron.

Celia chirped in a singsong voice. "Which witch is which? Yes. Bring Ron."

Emilio frowned, but Hermione laughed out loud. The little slag.

Emilio grabbed each witch by the arm and apparated to outside the pub. It was Saturday night and the pub was overflowing. Luckily, a group was just leaving as they came in. Dean saw them come in and wandered over to say hello. They chatted a bit about Harry's party then Dean excused himself. Celia got up to wander the bar saying she wanted to see what the prospects were like.

Emilio asked Hermione if she wanted a drink.

Hermione decided to try one of the pub's exotic drinks. "Surprise me. Bring me something exotic." Emilio raised an eyebrow but didn't say a thing.

/*/

Harry, Ginny, Ron and Dudley came through and sat down with Hermione. Both Harry and Ginny stared at Hermione.

"What? Have I got something in my teeth?"

Dudley laughed.

"Nope. Just wondering if everything is okay," said Ginny.

Emilio came back to the table with some red drink and Hermione laughed.

"What? You said something exotic."

Ginny started laughing as well. "But she probably didn't say red big boy. That drink looks like something Snape would concoct."

"Well you go ask for something exotic and see what you get," huffed Emilio.

Hermione stood. "Coming Ginny? We're going to the bar for something exotic but not red." The two witches laughed as they walked away from the table.

Blaise intercepted Hermione when she was halfway to the bar asking to have a word. Ginny kept going.

Hermione nodded. "What can I do for you Blaise?"

"Draco wanted me to pass you a message. The interview will be conducted by one of his staff as he will be in the States for the next several months. The job is yours if you still want it. I'm not sure what any of it means, but I promised to deliver the message."

Hermione replied with another nod. "If you speak with Draco, please tell him I'll see his staff first thing in the morning May tenth. Thanks."

Hermione continued to the bar. Ginny had two drinks. One was light blue and the other dark blue. Hermione ordered a white wine. She and Ginny laughed all the way back to the table.

/*/

Dudley drank all three exotic drinks then had to excuse himself to the men's room. He left the table to the sounds of hysterical laughter.

Harry asked the question everyone wanted answered. "What was Blaise on about Hermione? It looked like an intense conversation or as intense as Blaise can get."

"Blaise was telling me my interview will be done by staff. Draco was needed in the States and will be gone several months or more. I told him it didn't matter who did the interview. I just need to know if it's the job for me or not."

"Import/Export seems like a tough assignment Hermione" griped Harry. "Would you really want to travel to The States or China for months at a time? There has to be something you are better suited for."

"You're right Harry. I have been mulling it over. I gave my word I would take the interview, but I don't know if I'll take the position. However, I will enjoy those days and nights in Milan. Especially since Emilio will be there with me."

When Hermione said this, Emilio began to rub her shoulder. Hermione smiled, but Emilio's hands on her at that moment irritated her. It was almost as though he was saying, I've won. Hermione didn't like it one bit.

End Notes:

To the guest reviewer who asked, "Did you mean Diagon Alley when you wrote Diagon Place? No, I didn't. Actually, Diagon Place is a lovely new street off Diagon Alley. It was built after the war (In my mind). Diagon Place is a featured street in several of my stories. Thank you for asking.