The Tale Of Two Wizards

by Divess

It's 2003. Hermione has passed the first five years after the war helping others. She has realized while she championed others, she hasn't done anything for herself. All that is about to change. Hermione is going to start taking care of herself and she'll have two wizards to help her do it. Emione/Dramione. Hermione is OOC for a few chapters, but she'll come around. AU.

4. Down Up And Back To Down

Chapter Notes:

Celia spills some beans

Impending interview

Contemplating the job

Something has changed

Information from a best mate

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: A Choice Is Made

Hermione replied, "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. Hermione 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."

Hermione laughed and replied, "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."

Harry griped, "Import/Export seems like a tough assignment Hermione. 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."

Hermione replied, "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.

Chapter 4: Down Up And Back To Down

There were more laughs as Dudley came back to the table looking green about the mouth and muttered, "I think I've been poisoned." Everybody howled.

Harry quipped, "Next time you'll keep your bloody face out of other people's glasses."

Dudley coughed out, "Bloody exotic drinks." to another round of howling.

Hermione laughed along with everyone else. However, she was still bristling over Emilio rubbing her shoulder. She wasn't a pawn in a game between him and Draco if such a game even existed. Hermione knew she was being silly, but she just couldn't help it. Even though she promised to love Emilio to the best of her ability, a little tiny part of her wondered what she would do if Emilio was right about Draco wanting her. Hermione mentally kicked herself. No matter what Emilio said or what Draco said while he was trying to get into her knickers, she knew better. Draco Malfoy had a reputation. He always wanted a witch, until he got her.

The rest of the evening progressed swimmingly. There was dancing and drinking and more drinking and more dancing. Other witches and wizards nearly had to clear the floor when Ginny danced with Emilio. Ginny was such a wild dancer and she seemed to like dancing with Emilio. Hermione and Harry danced a few dances, but no matter how far away Hermione got from Harry, he managed to step on her toes. Hermione laughed so hard at Harry she couldn't dance right. Then she danced with Dudley. He was a little better than Harry but not by much.

Celia wandered over for a few minutes. She and Ron had been huddling in a corner most of the night. Celia pulled Emilio aside to tell him something and whatever she told him didn't sit well. Celia didn't care. She flipped her hair in Emilio's face and walked back over to Ron. Emilio frowned, but didn't take any measures.

Emilio grabbed Hermione when a nice, slow song came on. He held Hermione close while whispering sweet things in her ear. The next dance was a slow song as well and Hermione and Emilio remained on the dance floor.

Hermione snuggled up to her wizard. She would try her best to love him.

The group started to leave around midnight with Hermione and Emilio heading out first.

Emilio saw Hermione to her flat, came in behind her and went straight to the liquor cabinet. He spell chilled a bottle of white wine and took a Guinness for himself. He and Hermione sat on the couch discussing the night. Hermione asked, "What did Celia say that made you frown?" Hermione ran her fingers across Emilio's face and through his hair while he spoke.

"She wanted me to know Ron invited her to a gathering and I was put off because of the way she was carrying herself. Draco last night, Ron tonight. She'll be worn out before she's twenty five. Hermione couldn't help herself, she laughed. Emilio smiled, "It's not that funny. I love that she came to visit, but I'll also love to see her go."

Emilio turned to Hermione to pull her close to him and she sank right into his chest. Emilio began to rub her hair as she began to rub his chest. He leaned down to kiss Hermione on the lips and she reached over to wrap her arms around his neck. As they deepened the kiss, Emilio whispered, I want to hold you in my arms all night. That's all it will be. I just need to hold you."

Hermione whispered back, "I'd love for you to hold me all night, but just so you know, anything hard coming at me will be met with resistance."

"Fair enough witch. "Fair enough."

They finished their drinks and headed for the bedroom hand in hand. Hermione grabbed her pajamas and excused herself to the bathroom.

In the back of her mind, Hermione wondered why she was even in the bathroom. Emilio was her wizard. Shouldn't she feel comfortable enough to change in front of him?

Hermione flashed back to the night of Harry's party. She had let Draco take off every article of her clothing without blinking an eye. She had let Draco put his mouth on her most private parts and put his hands in her. She had wiggled, groaned and gasped, but she hadn't asked Draco to stop. She had spread herself wider for him. She began to throb between her legs. What the fuck? She was in her bathroom, Emilio was in her bedroom and she was standing there with her slit throbbing thinking about Draco Malfoy. She tried to calm herself by washing her face with cold water. That didn't work. The throbbing between her legs was intensifying. It was obvious she shouldn't get in bed beside Emilio in a state like this. In an attempt to calm herself, Hermione started to chant the ingredients of a random potion. She had to chant the ingredients three times before she felt calm enough to leave the bathroom.

Emilio smiled at Hermione when she returned to the bedroom, but she was surprised to find he hadn't made any move to undress.

Emilio explained, "I wasn't sure if you would change your mind Hermione. I didn't want to be caught out if you told me you'd rather I go home."

Hermione smiled back at Emilio and questioned, "Has it come down to my very own wizard refusing to share a bed with me? That's not very encouraging to a witch."

Emilio quipped, "Your very own wizard thinks it shouldn't be this hard or this awkward for a wizard and his witch to sleep together especially if it has already been sorted they will not interact with each other."

Hermione blushed. Emilio was right. She was making the act of sleeping beside Emilio into some huge deal. A shudder went through Hermione as the little voice in her head snarked, you feel as though you're being unfaithful to Draco, that's why. Get over yourself.

The blush spread up to Hermione's hairline.

Hermione walked over to Emilio. "Come on big boy. Get those clothes off, get into the bed and keep me warm."

Emilio remarked, "Wizard on the way."

Hermione laughed.

Emilio was out of his clothes and in the bed in record time. Once he was in the bed, he grabbed Hermione and pulled her up against him telling her he didn't like it when she called him big boy. He suggested she call him her sweet, loveable snuggle bunny.

Hermione laughed so hard she had to get out of bed to use the bathroom. When she came back, she quipped to Emilio, "If that's your choice, I'll be glad to oblige. Just remember when I say it front of Harry and Ginny, you asked for it."

Emilio laughed, "I'll remember."

Hermione slept well even with Emilio's erection poking her in the back.

During the night they had somehow changed position and ended up with Emilio on his stomach with Hermione lying across his back with one leg thrown over his body.

Hermione heard a noise and looked up to find Celia standing in the doorway. Celia shouted, "Sorry. I didn't know. I didn't think…. I thought you….."

Emilio lifted his head to tell Celia, "Stop talking Celia. Just shut up and get out of this room. Give us some privacy."

Celia ducked back out of the door, but Emilio was angry, really angry and threatened to slap some sense into his sister. Hermione was a tad embarrassed because she and Emilio were caught together in bed. They should have shut the bedroom door last night and Celia had invaded their privacy, but Hermione felt Emilio was overreacting. They hadn't been in a compromising position and they were decently covered.

Emilio got out of bed to use the bathroom and Hermione got up to go see about Celia.

When Hermione walked into the living room, Celia started apologizing. Hermione held up a hand and retorted, "Maybe next time you can make yourself known before you enter the bedroom. That way, none of us will be embarrassed."

Celia sputtered, "I was just surprised. I didn't think Emilio would be in your bed. I was under the impression…"

Hermione was puzzled. The witch who would shag anything with a dick was caught out because my wizard was in my bed. Something was off.

Emilio was coming down the hall while Celia was speaking. He shouted at Celia, "If you say one more word, I'll have your arse on a portkey before you can say, shag me Ron. Get out of here. Go back to my flat. I'll be there shortly," and Celia hurried through the floo without a backward look.

Hermione turned to Emilio. "What was that all about? Have you discussed our relationship with your sister?"

Emilio stuttered, "No. Of course I haven't. Celia just doesn't know when to stop talking."

Hermione sniped, "I'd appreciate it if you wouldn't skirt the subject. Why was Celia so surprised you and I were in bed together? What am I missing?"

Emilio sat heavily down on the couch and responded, "Celia thinks you and Draco have feelings for each other and he would be the wizard in your bed."

That remark pissed Hermione off more than any remark ever and she blew up. "When have I ever given you the impression I want Draco in my bed? Don't you fucking try to turn this into something about Draco Malfoy. You two don't like each other. Fine. You think he's after me. Fine. You don't like the way he treats people. Fine. What the fuck has that to do with your sister nearly vomiting when she found us in bed together?"

Emilio stood up and shouted, "I didn't say I thought anything Hermione. I said that's what Celia thinks."

Hermione shrugged, "Go home Emilio. Tell your sister she doesn't have to worry about me shagging Draco Malfoy. I do not have any designs on him and as far as I know he doesn't have any designs on me. He's all hers. If you believe, even a little, that I'm not interested in you, don't come back. I will be alone before I will accept you and your sister casting aspersions on me. You know where the floo is located."

Hermione held her tears until after Emilio had gone through the floo. Then, Hermione had broken down and cried for ten minutes. After that, she decided this might be for the best.

It was several hours later when her floo lit up and Celia stepped carefully into the room asking in a lowly voice, "Will you listen to me for a minute? I overstepped my bounds and I have caused problems between you and Emilio. I'm sorry."

Hermione gestured to a chair. Celia sat down and asked if she could have wine. Hermione got a bottle of wine from the cooler and two glasses from the kitchen.

For several minutes, Celia sipped her wine in silence then she began talking. "Draco and Emilio have been at odds since they were young. Yes, they knew each other earlier on, but neither will talk about it. They were both scions of powerful, wealthy families and they were always trying to outdo each other. Even when Draco was at Hogwarts and Emilio at Scuola Illustre they were in competition. They were given tasks by the fathers which usually pitted them against each other and on vacations, each would try to one up the other. It came to a head when their thoughts turned to witches. Emilio would become involved with a witch and Draco would come round and sweet talk the witch away. This happened twice. The third time Draco came to Italy and tried to spirit Emilio's witch away, he and Draco dueled. Emilio hurt Draco so badly he had to spend time in clinica privata. Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy were livid. Even though the families were almost evenly matched in power and wealth, the Malfoys had an edge. They had Voldemort. For several years they vowed to turn my family in to Voldemort if Emilio ever raised a wand to Draco again. To get back at Emilio, Draco shagged me. With the threat of Voldemort hanging over the family's head, Emilio had to stand by while I petulantly laid down for Draco and for the most part that's why Emilio has hated Draco ever since. He is seeing Draco as the interloper once again. Emilio loves you. He has not said, but I believe Emilio thinks you may turn to Draco and leave him."

Hermione knew Celia talked way too much, but this was beyond belief. She had just put all of Emilio's business out there for Hermione to hear. Even with all Celia's talk, Hermione still didn't understand she was so surprised to find Emilio in her bed so she asked, "What has all this to do with Emilio in my bed?"

Celia put down her wine. "I've said way too much already. Maybe you and Emilio will work things out. I really hope so. You are the best witch. I've said so much when I really came over to say goodbye and thank you for being such a good host. My portkey leaves in an hour. Perhaps I'll see you again Hermione and please don't give up on Emilio. I'm sure everything will straighten itself out."

Celia gave a little wave as she headed to the floo.

Hermione poured herself another glass of wine and thought, that witch talked for almost forty minutes and I still don't have a clue why she didn't expect Emilio to be in my bed. I feel I've missed something, been misled or plain out misdirected, but it was interesting to find out Draco and Emilio hated each other, but lived almost parallel lives.

Hermione finished her wine and went to take a shower. She decided it would be a pleasure to spend this Sunday alone. It would give her some time to think about her trip to Milan and to make alternate arrangements because if she and Emilio weren't speaking, she wouldn't be staying at his family estate when she visited Milan.

Hermione spent Sunday alone then she spent Monday alone. Emilio didn't call or come by either day. Initially, Hermione was sad it had all come to this, but in the end, she believed it to be for the best. Emilio hadn't come back. He must really believe she wasn't interested in him.

On Monday afternoon, Hermione called for reservations at Albergo Milan and felt much better once her reservation was confirmed. Monday afternoon was also the day Hermione wrote a letter to Ginny to vent.

Hermione wrote,

Hi Ginny. I just need to vent a little. I hope it's okay with you. Emilio and I had a blowout and have broken up. It appears Emilio thinks I do not have feelings for him. It was all precipitated by his sister walking in on us in bed. Celia screeched like someone had burned her which I didn't understand. Having had some time to think, I wonder if Celia was surprised because Emilio has recently been in Leanne's bed. It's the only reason I can think which would elicit such behavior. I'm so confused. I guess that's about all. I hope you'll be home again soon.

Hermione.

She sent the letter off by owl.

Hermione was feeling a little bit down on Tuesday. She had been doing a lot of thinking about Emilio and even though she decided this break-up was probably best for the both of them, she was hurt Emilio had given up so easily. She had been deep in thought when the doorbell rang. She dragged herself over to open the door to find Emilio standing there looking sheepish.

"May I come in, he asked?"

Hermione stepped back to let him in and he had hesitantly walked to the center of the room to wait for Hermione to ask him to have a seat. Hermione invited him to have a seat so he sat.

Emilio had waited for Hermione to ask him to have a seat, but he didn't wait to be invited to speak. "First Hermione, I want to apologize for not calling or coming by. I felt like you needed a little time to calm down. You were angry at me for something my sister believes and there wasn't any way I could fight that. If you're over being angry, do you think we can talk?"

Hermione was calm. She had almost gotten to the point where she was resigned to the break-up. Now here he was wanting to talk. Sitting on her couch, Hermione wrapped her pride around herself and answered, "Of course we can talk. Do you have a specific subject in mind? I only ask because I'm curious. If it is going to be a conversation about Draco Malfoy, I'd rather not. I have nothing to do with him outside of applying for a position and he has nothing to do with me. So what is it we need to talk about?"

"The conversation will not be about Draco Malfoy. The conversation will be about us. Is there an us Hermione? Do you want to be with me? I want us to be a couple and I want to be with you. You've told me you're unsure of us having a future together so I guess my next question would be, would you like to be completely free to date other wizards? I've admired you for so long I never thought about what would happen if I got you? Somehow I envisioned a fairy tale. Do you mind if I get a Guinness?"

Hermione watched Emilio walk to the cooler. He was so handsome. She really liked to watch him walk. She loved his hair, but was that enough? Would that carry them through as a couple? Hermione thought about it. He was her first available wizard, but so what. He loved her. She could grow to love him. Couldn't she?

Hermione took a deep breath and responded to Emilio. "I think there is an us and I do want to be with you. I would be lying if I told you I was sure about the future because I haven't dated anyone in five years and I'm feeling quite the novice. I do admit I might have been looking at life the wrong way. I was convinced the first wizard I met couldn't possibly be my life wizard and I had visions of having to date four or five wizards before I found the right one. However, if I look at it another way, there's no written rule saying my first wizard couldn't be my life wizard."

Emilio literally jumped at this. "Am I to understand you will give me another chance? Will you let me try again?"

"That's what I'm saying. We can try this again and we will work our way up from here. While we won't be jumping into sex right away that doesn't mean I'm not working on the relationship."

Emilio kissed Hermione on the nose.

She smirked, "Can you remember all that?

Emilio cheeked, "I can't get into your knickers."

Hermione whacked Emilio across the arm and retorted, "You cheeky little bugger. Is that all you remember?"

Emilio grabbed Hermione and kissed her throat and her ear and her forehead. "I remember I can kiss you anywhere I want."

Hermione wrapped her arms around Emilio and kissed him on the lips saying, "That, you can do." When they finished kissing, Emilio put his head in Hermione's lap.

Hermione told him, "I've made arrangements to stay at Albergo Milan when I'm in Milan. I had to do something when I hadn't heard from you in three days. I didn't want to be without lodgings while I was there.

Emilio sat up. "I have everything set up at my family's estate. You can cancel your reservation.

Hermione hesitated for a second before she replied, "No love. I'm not going to cancel the reservation. Perhaps I'll get to stay at your estate another time."

Emilio laid his head back in Hermione's lap and wistfully asked, "Will you at least come and meet my parents?"

Hermione kissed him on the nose. "I would be pleased to meet your parents."

Emilio sighed, "That will work. Will you still allow me to show you Italy?"

On Wednesday, Emilio changed his portkey destination from Pavia to Milan proper. He and Hermione agreed he would take the luggage to the hotel while she was at DLM.

With all bases covered, Hermione was ready for Milan. She was ready to see what was what.

Emilio spent some nights at Hermione's and some nights at home. In addition, Emilio was becoming fast friends with Harry and often stopped by Harry's house. Hermione had a fleeting thought about Harry being friends with Emilio and Draco at the same time. She hoped he could handle the nonsense.

On Thursday, Hermione had to be up very early. Her portkey was scheduled for 2:00 am London time. Her interview was scheduled for 9:00 Milan time. She would have an hour to look around the company.

Emilio stayed at his flat on Wednesday, but he called Hermione to wish her a good night. "I'm going to spend some time with Harry and the boys tonight. I'll see you in Milan. Sleep well."

Hermione snuggled in and was asleep in ten minutes. Again, the thousands of owls with the exact same message appeared in Hermione's dreams. All I want is a chance, but Hermione slept on.

The next morning Hermione ate a leisurely breakfast of tea and toast and still arrived at the portkey office in plenty of time. In another forty five minutes, Hermione was at the Milan portkey office closest to DLM and given the apparating directions to Draco's company. Hermione found that the apparating directions had allowed her to apparate directly into some type of receiving room at DLM. It didn't take long before a member of staff came through to greet her. Privately, Hermione was glad she'd gone shopping for new clothes as the staff at DLM was dressed better than most runway models and the wizards were dressed as impeccably as the witches. Hermione was introduced to four of the staff, Carmela, Marta, Velia and Gennaro. All four were very personable. Hermione was very glad she had taken the time to study the language and had an extensive Italian vocabulary.

Hermione felt as though Marta gave her the once over, but it could have been her imagination. Carmela appeared to be the oldest of the group and it was she who would be interviewing Hermione. Before the interview, Carmela took Hermione on a tour of the company and made her feel very comfortable. Hermione had an exciting time viewing all the comings and goings. It was fast paced but not manic. Hermione loved what little she had seen.

As they toured, Carmela let Hermione in on a secret. "Stock up on trousers and suits. Dresses and skirts are for the cutie pies. We who do the moving around need to feel comfortable. I'm not telling you to never wear dresses or skirts because we all have to feel sexy from time to time. I'm just offering suggestions. If you take the position, you can make up your own mind. Mr. Malfoy speaks very highly of you. We were under the impression you were his fiancee until he set us straight."

Hermione uttered her surprise, "Whatever would make you think that?"

Carmela caught herself and replied, "I've spoken out of turn. My apologies. I wouldn't want you to think I'm an office gossip. Let's get you up to the office for your interview."

Carmela and Hermione completed the interview at 3:30 pm after which Carmela was enthusiastic about Hermione accepting the position. "You are perfect for the job. I hope you will give us serious consideration and I will be speaking to Mr. Malfoy later on this evening to give him feedback on the interview. How long will you be staying in Italy?"

Hermione said, "My boyfriend and I will be staying the weekend at Albergo Milan. I have a portkey home for Sunday night."

Carmela wrote down her address and number for Hermione. "In case you want a real Italian Sunday dinner."

Hermione explained, "Emilio is from Pavia. I believe we will have Sunday dinner at his family estate, but thank you for the invitation Carmela. I hope to see you again."

They shook hands and Hermione headed for the hotel. Emilio was supposed to meet her, but she had completed her interview early so she made arrangements to get to the hotel by herself and reached the Albergo in record time.

When she let herself into the room, Emilio was on the phone. Hermione thought nothing of it until she heard Emilio say, "Hermione wouldn't like that one bit. We'll see."

Hermione wasn't trying to eavesdrop so she spoke up. "Hermione wouldn't like what? We'll see what?"

Emilio told the caller, "Hermione's back. I'll speak with you later."

Emilio replied, "Celia called to see if we want to take a quick trip to Belgium. I told her you were interested in seeing Milan not Belgium."

Hermione nodded, but like the night at Harry's party, something was off. Hermione decided, she was in Italy and stray thoughts weren't going to spoil her time. She would think about it when she got back home.

Emilio came over to give her a passionate kiss and a hug.

Hermione hugged him back asking, "What do you have planned for tonight?"

Emilio replied, A little dinner, a little dancing and a little sightseeing. How does that sound?"

"Sounds good," remarked Hermione, "What shall I wear?"

Emilio grabbed her and squeezed her. "Anything you put on will look good."

Hermione smirked, "So says the wizard who is in love with the witch."

Emilio laughed and asked, "Does the witch I love want to cuddle for a bit? I want to feel her next to me."

Hermione replied, "I'll be cuddle worthy as soon as I get out of these clothes."

Emilio snorted, "Hell yeah! We're getting out of our clothes." Hermione didn't even answer as she went to the closet to find something comfortable to wear.

She and Emilio napped together for a couple of hours.

Emilio took Hermione so many different places they hardly registered. They dined, they danced and they saw the sights.

Soon it was Sunday afternoon and they were headed to Emilio's home. It was massive and beautiful. The Lozier gardens put every other garden Hermione had ever seen to shame. Hermione was impressed.

Emilio's mother and father were friendly and outgoing and they both had gushed, "We're so glad to finally meet you. We thought Emilio would give up on ever having a witch if he couldn't have you."

Hermione blushed from chin to hairline. Mr. Lozier embarrassed her even more when he quipped, "You are gorgeous when you blush my dear."

Hermione thanked him and kept her eyes on her plate. Emilio squeezed her hand under the table. The dinner went well.

The Lozier's gave Hermione an open invitation. "Please feel free to come visit us any time. We hope you and Emilio will have your wedding here. That would be lovely. Don't you think?"

Emilio cleared his throat.

Hermione choked out the response, "Yes. That would be lovely. We'll keep that in mind."

It was at this point Emilio mentioned, "Hermione and I have to get going. We have a portkey within the next couple of hours."

Goodbyes were said all around with Mrs. Lozier announcing, "If you take the position, we'll be able to visit all the time."

Hermione smiled. She didn't know if she would be taking the position, but didn't want to say as much.

Hermione and Emilio had a laugh when they were back in the hotel room as Emilio quipped, "Trust my mother to work the word wedding into the conversation. I've had to hear the word from the first time I mentioned you." Hermione laughed even more.

Emilio pinned Hermione to the bed asking, "Are you laughing at me?" It soon became no laughing matter as both Hermione and Emilio realized their position. He groaned as he kissed her and Hermione groaned back. After another kiss, Emilio rolled off Hermione and went into the bathroom. Hermione was a little unhappy with herself for getting Emilio into the condition he was in, but not unhappy enough to change her mind about having sex. She began packing up everything and shrinking it down.

They caught their portkey and soon enough were back in Hermione's flat and once Hermione put everything away, she was ready to relax.

Emilio asked, "Do you want to get out for a bit. We can stop by Witch-Wizard for a few drinks."

"Sounds good. Let me just freshen up a bit."

The pub wasn't too crowded and Hermione immediately spotted Leanne. As she spotted Leanne, Emilio's telephone call surfaced in her mind and Hermione remembered feeling like something was off, but again pushed the thought out of her mind. She wouldn't jump to any conclusions unless she saw it for herself or it came out of Emilio's mouth.

Leanne spotted Emilio and came directly to the table. Emilio took Hermione's hand in his and she thought, he thinks I'll run off again.

Leanne greeted Emilio then turned to Hermione. "I owe you an apology Hermione. Sometimes when there are free drinks I drink too much and begin to run my mouth. I apologize."

"Thank you Leanne, answered Hermione. I appreciate the apology." Leanne and Emilio spoke a few more words before she wandered away.

Hermione and Emilio decided to say hello to Seamus on their way out and as they were leaving Leanne said, "Goodnight. I'll see you tomorrow then Emilio?" Hermione didn't say anything as Emilio replied, "I'll probably pass by. Goodnight."

Hermione didn't broach the subject. She waited for Emilio to tell her what was going on.

That night, they were lying in the bed, Emilio on his back and Hermione with her head on his chest when Emilio explained about Leanne. "Leanne has asked for my help with a case she is working on and I told her I would look it over. That's all that was about."

"That's nice," remarked Hermione.

Emilio sat up which made Hermione have to sit up as he emphasized, "That's all it is Hermione. I promise you." He laid back down, ran his fingers through Hermione's hair and pushed it back off of her face and had gone to sleep without saying anything else to each other.

The next morning, Emilio kissed Hermione goodbye before he flooed home to change clothes for his workday.

Hermione sat in the kitchen drinking tea and going over the things she saw during her tour of DLM. Hermione surprised herself because she thought the job was something she'd like to try. It was interesting and fast paced enough to keep her satisfied. Hermione thought Draco had exaggerated a bit. She would be running the office, but there seemed to be plenty of witches or wizards she could send out if she didn't want to travel. Draco had made it sound as though Hermione would be traveling every minute of every day. Like Carmela let slip, there were probably cutie pies there who were written down to travel for the job, but for some reason or another didn't. Hermione knew if she took the office, everybody would do the job they were being paid to do. It was straightforward and simple.

Hermione was going over the pros and cons when she realized she hadn't received an answer from Ginny. She had written the letter on Monday. Now it was the next Monday and Ginny hadn't replied. Hermione hoped Ginny wasn't lying injured in some hospital somewhere because professional Quidditch was a hard sport and injuries were prevalent.

Hermione picked up her mobile and dialed Harry. He would know if Ginny was alright. Harry exclaimed, "Hello gorgeous. Nice to hear from you. What's up?"

Hermione told him, "I sent Ginny an owl last Monday. I haven't heard from her. I'm nervous she might have gotten herself injured or something."

Puzzled, Harry responded, Ginny's fine. She was in London all last week. She visited me several times. Maybe she didn't owl because she is going to call you. Ginny has joined the ranks of mobile phone owners. Emilio visits. Why can't you stop by the house sometime? Tell Emilio he'd better bring some sprouts the next time he comes."

Hermione laughed. "Thanks Harry. I'll tell Emilio. I'll talk to you later."

Hermione thought, That's strange. Then again, maybe not. She and Ginny were nowhere near as close as they used to be and she chalked it up to one of the things time changes.

Hermione returned to her thoughts about DLM. She liked just about everything she'd seen. It was much more modern than most companies in wizarding London and Hermione liked that. The con was Hermione would have to move to Milan. While that wasn't hard to take because she didn't have any family anymore, it was hard because she would be away from Emilio, Harry, Ginny and Ron. Even that wasn't so bad because she could always make new friends, but another potential con was loneliness. Hermione mentally smacked herself as she thought about the last five years she had spent in limbo. She hadn't worried about being lonely then. So, all things considered, there wasn't anything stopping her from taking the job except being away from Emilio. She would have a chat with him to see how he felt. Otherwise, she was taking the DLM job. As a last thought, Hermione reminded herself she had it down in the contract she would only be required to stay for two years. After that, she could come back to London if she so chose.

Hermione called Emilio to ask, "Can we talk after you get off work?"

Emilio hesitated, "I have late duty tonight. Could we do it tomorrow?"

Hermione replied, "Of course we can love. I'll talk to you tomorrow."

On Tuesday evening, Hermione told Emilio, "I have considered all things and I've decided to take the position in Milan."

Emilio said, "I'm glad you found something you want to do, but I'm sorry it's in Milan. We are working to build our relationship. How will we do that if you are in Milan?"

"Milan is only thirty minutes away by portkey, replied Hermione. When I get settled, I can have an international floo set up in my flat. All you would need to do is step in and come through."

Emilio nodded. Well, if you've made up your mind, there's little I can do to change it. I love you and we'll work it out." Hermione wrapped herself around Emilio and snuggled into his chest.

Feeling defeated, Emilio sighed as he nuzzled Hermione's neck and ran his hands through her hair. He had so hoped Hermione would turn down the position in Milan and go to work for Gringott's, but that wasn't to be the case. She was going to Milan and would be around Draco bloody Malfoy every day.

Ginny wasn't the only one who had purchased a mobile phone. Draco Malfoy had purchased one as well. The week after the interview Draco called and seemed happy to hear she would be taking the position. He extended much more leeway than any other company owner would have. "You still have three months in which to change your mind. I'd be disappointed, but if you do change your mind, all I ask is for you to give me a decent notice. Thanks Granger. Have you electrocuted anyone lately?"

Hermione cheeked, "I save my electrocutions for you. Um, Draco?"

"Yes, Hermione? Something else?"

Hermione softly said, "Thank you for the letter."

"What letter? I'll speak with you again Granger. Take care."

Hermione disconnected the call. At first she was puzzled then she remembered the contents of the letter, "We'll never have to speak of this again." Draco was gifting her a life free of guilt over what happened in his bedroom.

The weeks passed quickly and Hermione had been back and forth to Milan several times. She had realtors looking out for a flat, but hadn't found anything that was to her liking. She preferred being close to midtown, but it was turning into a nightmare trying to find a flat. Hermione began to think she had the wrong realtor for the job.

Considering that Hermione would be leaving London for at least two years, she and Emilio were getting along well. He started working more and hanging with Harry, but Hermione couldn't complain because she was moving to Milan. Still, she felt a little sad because she and Emilio used to snuggle up together five nights a week. Hermione began to feel their relationship like Ginny's friendship was one of those things time changes.

Before Hermione knew it, the day was almost there for her to leave London. Harry and friends put together a going away party for her. It was a happy occasion, but a nostalgic occasion as well. Hermione kept smiling, but she had been second guessing her decision all day.

Emilio had been so solicitous the last weeks. If they could keep their relationship together, he would make a wonderful husband and father.

Hermione looked around the party. She was going to miss this, but resolved to make just as nice a life in Milan.

Draco made the rounds of the party. He held conversations with his Slytherin mates Blaise and Theo and stopped by Seamus to tell him how much he missed the pub when he was traveling. He drank at least four fire whiskeys and all the time he was drinking, he was trying to look and not look at Hermione. He and Hermione caught each other's gaze twice. The first time, she smiled and waved. The second time she had a puzzled look on her face as though there was something she didn't understand.

When he couldn't hold out any longer, Draco settled himself behind a heavy curtain to watch Hermione and Emilio. She looked like a beautiful, sexy angel.

Just staring at Hermione made him hard, which in turn brought to mind the events that had transpired in his flat that night three months ago. I had my mouth on her. I had my fingers in her and let her get away. If we had just a little more time that night, I would have sealed her to me forever. Such an insignificant thing as forgetting to lock his floo had been his undoing.

Draco was also watching as Emilio pushed Hermione's hair out of her face and kissed her on the neck. Had he been any other wizard, tears would have come to his eyes, but he was the stoic Draco Malfoy and the only thing that happened was his heart fell to his feet. Draco knew the signs. Hermione and Emilio had made love. Hermione belonged to Lozier.

Draco who is usually so astute in his observations was dead wrong this time. Hermione and Emilio had become more familiar with each other, but their relationship hadn't progressed. They had not made love. Draco Malfoy was wrong.

Draco turned and left the room muttering to himself, "Fuck London and all the fucking tossers in it." He was on his way to pick up the earliest available portkey to Milan. Draco was determined to get what he needed in Milan and get out before Hermione showed up for her new position. He couldn't stand to think of seeing her and not being able to touch her.

Before he could get out of the room, Harry caught him and asked, "Are you on your way out without saying anything. Come on Draco. You've always been the life of the party, besides, Hermione is starting a job with your company. The least you can do is say a few words of good luck."

Draco pulled up his Malfoy façade and replied, "I wasn't leaving mate I just needed a bit of quiet to put my thoughts together. Give me a couple of minutes."

Harry slapped his mate on the back and moved towards Hermione.

Draco was caught. He thought he could get away. He looked across the room at Hermione and Harry talking. Hermione was grinning and the fucking git Lozier was scowling.

Draco took a deep breath and headed toward Hermione, Harry and Emilio. Draco walked towards the little group with his Malfoy façade pulled way up high. He held out his hand to greet Hermione, but a tiny jolt made him step back. Hermione had to do the same.

Draco laughed. "Still trying to electrocute me then Granger?"

Hermione blushed.

Emilio scowled and stepped up to offer his hand to Draco. With a smile plastered on his face, Draco greeted Emilio, "Lozier. How's it going?"

Emilio replied, "All is well Malfoy. All is well."

Draco turned to Harry and asked, "Please set me up. I need to say a few words about my newest boss.

Hermione smiled and said, "Thank you Draco."

It was a little awkward after Harry walked away, but Draco was saved by the arrival of Blaise and Theo.

Blaise asked, "What's going on mate?"

Draco remarked, "I'm going to say a few words about Hermione taking the position with DLM."

Blaise smiled. "That's nice. Are you going to be around for a while?"

"No. I have to make a stop in Milan, but I'll most likely be going back to the States."

Draco heard Harry calling his name and headed towards him. Ginny Weasley nodded to him as he passed. Under his breath Draco mumbled, "Fuck you she-weasel. You never spoke to me before, there's no need to speak to me now."

Draco went to the center of the floor and beckoned Hermione to join him.

Draco watched every step Hermione made as she walked toward him. She is magnificent, he thought. Lucky fucking Lozier.

Draco also noticed that the she-weasel appeared to be in Lozier's face about something. Draco smirked, Some things never change. Always in someone's face. One of these days, she'll meet her match.

Draco bowed slightly as Hermione came to stand beside him then he put his wand to his throat and said, "Sonorous. "My fine witches and wizards. You all know by now that Miss Granger has signed on to be Head of the Milan branch of DLM. I want to take a moment to wish Hermione the best and ask that she make us lots of money. Quietus"

There was an immediate roar of voices and foot stomping and cat calls.

Draco's stomach filled with butterflies as Hermione smiled at him and said, "Sonorous. Thank you Mr. Malfoy. I hope I'll make us tons of money. I'll see you in Milan and thank you everyone else for the good wishes. Quietus."

With his duty done, Draco started to walk away when he noticed Lozier had moved and the she-weasel had moved right along with him. Ginny was pink in the face. Whatever Lozier had done to Hermione must have been bad for she-weasel to be going at him so hard.

Draco quipped, "Not my problem." Blaise had come up behind him and asked, "What's not your problem?"

Draco retorted, "Whatever Lozier has done to Hermione. It must be bad. The she-weasel has been in his face for the last ten minutes."

Blaise looked around and cheeked, "You have been out of touch too long mate. Nothing's amiss. Everything looks fine."

Draco glanced over to see that Hermione had rejoined Lozier and Weasley and Blaise was right. Everything appeared to be fine.

Draco took that minute to say goodbye to his mate. He and Blaise shook hands. He turned to shake hands with Theo and looked into the brown eyes of Hermione Granger. Hermione smiled so Draco smiled back. Then he went to say goodbye to Harry and the rest of the gits. Ten minutes after that, Draco was in his bedroom at Malfoy Manor. His portkey wouldn't be ready for another two hours so he laid back on the pillow and let his mind wander.

A strange thought passed through Draco's mind. It was so silly he wouldn't even put it to words, but it was interesting. Draco made a mental note to find out what Lozier had done to Hermione. His last thought before he closed his eyes was Leanne Moon.

When Draco arrived in Milan, the last thing on his mind was Leanne Moon. He was hit with a huge order. Turkey needed ten thousand muggle gas masks as soon as possible. The Turks were hoping to have the merchandise within forty five days. Draco knew the only place to get that much merchandise that quickly would be in the States. He didn't even unpack. He barked out orders for someone to get him a portkey path to the States.

Draco hated going to the States for no other reason than it took multiple port keys to get there. An hour later, his trip was all set up. He said his goodbyes to staff and headed for the portkey room. In this business, a portkey room wasn't a luxury it was a necessity. Just like the mobile phone he had purchased.

Draco snapped his fingers. He wanted to leave a note for Hermione. She would arrive before he returned.

Draco wrote:

Thank you for taking the job Hermione. I believe DLM will flourish under your hand. Thank you as well for giving us two years firm. That's more than acceptable. Good luck to us.

Draco Malfoy

Draco went to the portkey room and headed for California, USA.

Draco was halfway to Milan when Harry pulled Hermione aside. Hermione naturally thought it would be one of those best friend goodbye things, but Harry surprised her. He asked, "Are you and Emilio okay with all this?"

"It'll be hard but we've talked about it. We think we can make it work out. Why do you ask?"

Harry exclaimed, "There's something going on with Emilio. I'm an Auror so I wanted to be sure of my facts before I said anything. I'm also fucking pissed off because I'm being put in the middle of some bullshite."

Hermione closed her eyes and asked, "What are you going on about Harry? Does this have to do with Leanne Moon?