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.

6. Lines Have Been Set

Nods to Dramione. Angst/Anxiety/Drama. Enjoy.

Be aware. Rated M for language and romantic interludes down the road.

Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards: Can You Hear Me Now

Cautiously Draco asked, "Why don't you know how Lozier is doing? What have I missed? Did Harry arrest him for being stupid? Is he in Azkaban?"

Hermione laughed, "You haven't missed anything important."

Hermione heard a clunk. She laughed again and asked, "What happened?"

Draco admitted, "I dropped the mobile for a second. You and Lozier were connected at the hip. It's strange to hear you don't know how he's doing. Listen. I'm too far away not to be included in the latest news. What's happening between you and Lozier?"

"If you must know, Emilio and I broke up the night of my going away party. Anything else you need to know before I hang up?"

Draco said, "No. Nothing else. I'll speak to you later."

Draco was hurrying to get Hermione off the phone. He wanted to know what was going on. Draco fumbled around for a quill, parchment and an envelope. He had two owls to send, one to Blaise and the other to Theo. They both had been at Hermione's going away party and had to know what was going on. Shite. He was all the way in California USA. Somebody was damn well going to tell him something.

After sending the owls, Draco sat back in his chair thinking out loud, I hope I haven't misunderstood the situation. Let Lozier truly be gone from Hermione's life.

All I want is a chance.

Chapter 6: Lines Have Been Set

Hermione hung up the phone in a very good mood. She didn't know why. She was just in a very good mood. Things were going well at DLM and Draco was pleased with her work. I deserve to be in a good mood, she thought and she was still talking to herself as she stepped into the shower.

She had just finished putting on her pajamas when the hotel room phone rang and she picked it up to find Gaspare on the other end. Hermione was glad to hear from Gas as hotel living was a little lonely and she did enjoy talking to him. Gas had already called her in the middle of the week to find out how she was doing and Hermione appreciated his concern. This time Gas was calling to inquire about the job interview and asked if she was still looking for a traveler.

"We are. Are you ready to make a life long commitment to me?"

Gas cheeked, "Only if you plan on marrying me."

Hermione cheeked right back, "You'll have to date me first because I'm not in the habit of marrying just any wizard."

There was a couple seconds of silence before Gas spoke again. "That can be arranged. Shall we date before or after you hire me?"

Hermione blushed and instead of answering his question, asked questions of her own. "What days will you be available next week? It has to be late afternoon right? I'm available Wednesday and Thursday afternoon. Do you have a preference?"

Gas told her he preferred Thursday afternoon and could be to DLM by 5:00 pm if that was acceptable.

"That's perfectly fine Gas. 5:00 pm on Thursday will make it very easy for me to show you around the facility and you'll be able to make a more informed decision if you see what the job encompasses. Sound good?"

Gas told Hermione the day and time was perfect and mentioned there were two other things before he hung up. One, he thanked her for what she was doing for his mum saying she hadn't been this happy in a long time, and two, he recognized that she had ignored his request for a date.

Hermione responded smoothly, "Thank you for the request Gas, which I will have to decline. It is a lovely offer, but I just got out of a sticky situation and I'm not inclined to date right now. Thank you for asking though. Besides, everyone will think you're a kiss up if you start off dating the boss."

Gaspare chuckled, "You have a wonderful way of letting a guy down softly, but I may ask again in the future. I'll see you on Sunday for dinner and I'll speak with you on Thursday about the job. Goodnight."

"Goodnight. See you Sunday." Hermione replied.

Carmela had issued a standing Sunday dinner invitation to Hermione which she attended faithfully because she liked the Maida family and because Carmela treated her like a daughter.

/*/

While Hermione went about Milan exploring on her own and having dinner with Carmela's family, things in London were heating up.

Emilio had been right about Hermione's friends. Not one of them had a good word to say to him. Emilio had approached Harry, but was turned away at his office door although

Harry did take the opportunity to say, "It may not have started off as such, but you used me and my house as a cover. You're a smart wizard. At some point you must have realized Ginny's game. The first time Ginny said anything against Hermione you should have stood up for your witch then gotten the hell away from her. You hurt Hermione. I really don't have anything to say to you. You brought this all on your self."

Emilio had left Harry's office without another word.

Emilio got just about the same treatment from everyone who had been at the party except Leanne. She really was a friend to him and stuck by him. She was almost the only one.

Theo wouldn't even stay in the same area as Emilio. If Emilio walked into a room, Theo walked out. If Emilio was already in a room, Theo wouldn't enter. Theo was still full of rage at the things Emilio not only said to Hermione, but for the aspersions he had cast on her and Draco's names. Hermione was just about the straightest witch Theo had ever met and no cheating tosser was going to talk to her like that while he was in the room.

When Theo received Draco's owl on Sunday morning, he was only too glad to fill Draco in on what happened after he left. Theo wrote it all out in full detail and didn't leave anything out. He practically tore through the parchment underlining the statements where Emilio called Draco and Hermione cheating pigs and that Hermione had cheated on him with Draco. After the letter was finished, Theo read it over and got angry all over again. He signed it T. Then he called for an international owl to send the letter off.

Blaise didn't get Draco's letter until Sunday afternoon, but he had a lot to write as well. Blaise wrote,

Remember at the party you thought the she-weasel was in Lozier's face? Well. It seems there was a reason. Weasley was using her wiles to turn Lozier away from Hermione, if you catch my meaning and Lozier went right along with it. He never put Weasley in her place so she just kept at it. The night of Hermione's party, Weasley was trying to get Lozier to break up with Hermione before she left for Milan. Lozier was too stupid to push Weasley away, but he wasn't stupid enough to leave Hermione for her. However, Lozier did have quite a few nasty things to say to Hermione up to and including, Hermione is a pig and Hermione couldn't tell him who to fuck because she wasn't fucking him. Lozier, kind shite that he is, also took the time to tell Hermione he knew she had done something with you the night of the previous party. Remember if you will, all of this is being said in front of a roomful of guests. Theo, myself and Seamus drew our wands on Lozier but Harry intervened. It was an interesting evening. How are the witches in California?

Blaise.

/*/

While Blaise and Theo were responding to Draco, Hermione was enjoying dinner with the Maidas. Sal and Gas were being their playful selves with Gas telling everyone at the table, "I asked Hermione for a date and she turned me down flat."

Hermione turned beet red.

"I know you're grown Gaspare growled Fausto, but say one more embarrassing word to Hermione and I'll box your ears."

Hermione smiled into her napkin with Sal laughing into his napkin as well.

Gas offered an apology. "Sorry Hermione. Like I've told my father before, next time I'll lie."

Fausto spoke up again and said, "Next time you'll keep that trap closed."

Hermione chose this moment to excuse herself from the table so she and Carmela could have an after dinner coffee and chat about work.

Carmela admitted to Hermione, "Gas told me he mentioned how happy I am. I've been with Mr. Malfoy since the beginning and this is the happiest I've ever been. Not to speak out of school, but I've put up with merda from certain people from the day I walked in. I've always felt they play on the fact Mr. Malfoy wants to build the business properly and will do whatever it takes. Certain employees do as little as possible for their pay. I'm very glad you accepted the position. Between you and I, whether you give Gas a position or not, it is nice of you to offer."

Hermione replied, I'm glad to be here Carmela. I've just left a dismal situation back in England so your support here is greatly appreciated. Regarding Gas, if he is really interested in working as a Traveler, a position is his. I like his style and his personality. He'll fit right in to the new DLM."

Both Carmela and Hermione laughed at Hermione's use of the new DLM.

Gaspare who had obviously been eavesdropping spoke softly so his father couldn't hear. "You like my style and my personality yet you won't date me. What does that say?"

Hermione decided now was as good a time as any to put Gas in his place. "Gas, we can talk like this outside of work. However, at the job, it will not be productive for you to do so as I need to have the respect and cooperation of those who work for me. You and I bantering about dating or not dating is not a topic I can entertain during the work day. I'm not trying to be demanding. I just want you to know what I expect."

"Duly noted," Gas responded.

"Does this mean there won't be a quickie wedding next week, Sal cheeked?"

Fausto just chuckled.

"Even though you've embarrassed me completely said Gas. I still think you're beautiful." He immediately excused himself before his father could comment. He called over his shoulder, "Goodnight Hermione. I'll see you on Thursday."

Hermione smiled at Gas then turned back to Carmela to finish their chat when her mobile rang. It was Emilio so Hermione excused herself from Carmela to take the call.

Emilio wanted to talk, Hermione didn't and told him so in no uncertain terms.

"I'm in Milan and I'd like to see you, Emilio pleaded. Maybe we can get things worked out now we are away from all your friends."

Hermione said, "We've done all the talking we're going to do Emilio. Please do not call me again. Stay away from me."

Emilio replied, "That's going to be a little hard. I will be taking a position at The Ministry In Milan. I will be fairly close to you from this point forward. Even if we can't be lovers, I would like to be friends."

This news upset Hermione. She raised her voice. "I don't care where you will be working and I don't care what you want. We said everything that needed to be said while I was in London. Stay away from me." Hermione disconnected the call.

Gas was standing behind her. "Sal and I are going to escort you home. We're not taking no for an answer. Let us know when you're ready to leave."

Hermione didn't argue. Tonight she would feel better with an escort. Tomorrow she could make arrangements with the hotel to have Emilio put on the 'not an acceptable visitor' list.

Hermione was ready to go as she was embarrassed to have raised her voice in Carmela's house. "Do you need me to accompany you as well, asked Fausto?"

Sal and Gas both replied, "We'll be fine dad. We may spend a few minutes with Hermione to make sure everything is alright, but we should be back fairly quickly."

The three apparated to the hotel where Sal and Gas accepted Hermione's offer of a drink. Sal drank while Gas checked under the bed, in the bathroom, in the kitchenette and in the closet. He didn't leave any stone unturned and there hadn't been any sign of Emilio, so Hermione had breathed a little easier.

Sal and Gas stayed for about thirty minutes before they bid Hermione good night telling her to send an owl if she ran into any problems.

After they left, Hermione kicked off her shoes, poured a glass of wine and sat down on the couch. She pushed her hair out of her face and sighed, "Why me? I've tried to live a good life. Why is Emilio still bothering me when I'm out of the picture? Why can't he just stay with Ginny and leave me alone?"

Hermione was tired so she finished her wine and headed for bed. She didn't even feel like taking a shower. The best she could do was wash her face.

/*/

The next morning, Hermione was still tired even though she'd slept eight hours. She took a dose of pepper-upper potion to get her started and by the time she finished her shower, she felt much better. She took several deep breaths and promised herself it was going to be a good day.

While Hermione prepared to start her day, Draco was wide awake. He couldn't sleep. He was waiting for answers to the owls he'd sent to Blaise and Theo. Draco knew he could always call Harry, but didn't want to put a foot into a situation he knew nothing about. Harry already had suspicions something had gone on between him and Granger. He'd promised never to speak of that particular course of events again and he never would. He would just have to wait for information from Blaise and Theo.

Draco had found the items he needed for the Turks and had scouted around a bit more and was able to get an excellent price on 10000 other miscellaneous products. DLM should be in good shape with the addition of these products.

If he could get everything wrapped up quickly, he would be on his way back by next Wednesday or Thursday. With Granger having made all employees Worldwide Travelers, he could rest a bit easier. Even though he wouldn't completely relax until he saw the results of all Travelers going worldwide, he would at least have time to breathe. Draco realized he had been stretching himself too thin, but it had to be done as he felt he couldn't trust most of the Travelers in his employ. It sounded foolish to his ears now that Granger had fixed everything, but he was only doing what had to be done. He never had time to fire and rehire and had been stuck with the lot he originally hired.

/*/

Hermione walked into DLM at 8:00 am as was her habit. Carmela, Gennaro and Ettore arrived at 8:30. The rest of the travelers arrived at 8:45.

Velia had gone out on her first worldwide job last Wednesday. So far, the results were promising. Because of prior results, Hermione had Velia calling in every two days to report her progress. Velia had scouted her location, tracked down the product that was needed and was in the buying process. If everything went to plan, Velia would be home next week. What impressed Hermione was the fact Velia had run across an opportunity to sell 1000 units of product which was already in the DLM warehouse. Carmela had the paperwork on her desk and the transaction had been completed in record time.

Raul Falco was the next former Local Traveler Hermione sent out. His scheduled stop was Jamaica. Hermione wanted him to look for Jamaican Ruffing Powder. Hermione had recently read about cross studies being done between the magical and muggle world on brain studies and brain disorders. To Hermione it meant potions masters and specialty healers would be looking for a lot of Ruffing Powder. Ruffing Powder was a powerful ingredient used specifically in preparing potions for the brain and Hermione wanted to get a corner on the market. She wanted DLM to have the best and most powder available. Raul had instructions to buy as much as possible as quietly as possible. He was also advised to check in every other day with his progress. Raul went out last Friday and Hermione expected a progress call from him on Tuesday. Even though he seemed a bit lazy, Raul had a good head on his shoulders. Hermione was impatient to hear how he was making out.

Just because she could, Hermione had sent Marta to Thailand. Marta accompanied a large shipment of coconut milk to Thailand and in return she was to look for good deals on Jasmine rice to be delivered to warehouses in Britain. British cooking had recently evolved to include many noodle and rice dishes, but the foods were very hard to come by and Hermione wanted DLM to be the British supplier. Marta had instructions to call in every two days to give a progress report. So far things were going well. Marta hadn't broken a fingernail or anything.

Hermione had already decided Carmela would be the go to witch for progress reports, but only after she satisfied herself that the travelers could be trusted.

Hermione wanted to keep it quiet for now, but she was looking at running DLM twenty four hours a day. She knew it would be a massive undertaking, but she was single and would be able to spend as much time as necessary at DLM to get the project up and running. She also had hopes Gas would consent to be her first overnight traveler. Right now it was just a thought in the back of Hermione's mind and there was a lot of planning needed to pull off something like this. In addition, Draco had mentioned opening a muggle side to the house. Hermione hadn't thought it completely through, but she didn't see how it could be done. It was a subject she would need to discuss with Draco.

With the first week under her belt, Hermione was becoming more confident in her ability to run the office. She had started with the Travelers but there were still several other departments she would need to look at, but as far as Hermione could tell, the other departments ran efficiently. Still, it was her job to be sure.

Around 5:00 pm, Hermione had a chance to sit back and relax. Carmela had stopped in to say goodnight a few minutes prior and Hermione was alone in the office except for a Traveler named Lorenzo hanging about outside her office.

Lorenzo came to the doorway and asked, "Do you have a few minutes?"

"I do, replied Hermione. Please come in."

Lorenzo stated, "It's not job related. I haven't had a chance to properly welcome you to Italy. How are you finding things? If you need a guide, I'd be glad to show you around."

Hermione smiled, "How thoughtful Lorenzo. Thank you for asking, but I have a wonderful family who has taken me under their wing. I have guides for anywhere I want to go or anything I want to do."

Hermione's mobile rang. She answered it to find Draco on the other end of the line. She asked Lorenzo to excuse her for a moment. After Lorenzo stepped out, Hermione went back to the call. Hermione started to ask, "Are you check-?" She didn't get a chance to ask the question because Draco cut through her to ask, "Who's there with you? You shouldn't let people into your hotel room. It might be dangerous."

Hermione answered, "I'm not at the hotel. I'm still in my office at DLM. I was speaking to Lorenzo."

Silence from the other end.

Finally Draco asked, "Lorenzo Barone?" Traveler Lorenzo? Why is he in your office? Hasn't the day ended there?"

Hermione answered " Yes. The day has ended here. What are all these questions about? Did you have something specific you needed to speak to me about?"

Hermione was alone in her office with a wizard. Draco had business related questions he wanted to ask when he first called, but now he found out Hermione was alone with Lorenzo, he didn't want to ask anything. He wanted to be spiteful.

Draco sniped, "Cunning Granger. Out of Lozier's sight for a week and already turning on the famous Granger charm to other blokes. It must be nice to have a wizard in each country."

Hermione was speechless. What the hell was Draco on about?

Hermione remained professional. She took a breath and replied, "I'm at work speaking to one of our employees. If this is a conversation you think we should have, let's do it some other time," and she disconnected the mobile, got up from her chair, spoke a few words to Lorenzo and wished him good night.

/*/

While Hermione was saying goodnight to Lorenzo and getting ready to apparate home, Draco was in the midst of a Malfoy tantrum. This Malfoy tantrum, although not as bad as some, consisted of Draco cursing out the air around him. He raged, "What was Granger playing at? Was she or was she not with Lozier? Why was she letting that git Lorenzo chat her up? She was trying to get under his skin. Fucking Lozier. Fucking Barone."

To calm himself Draco put his finger in his mouth. Even after all this time he imagined he could still taste Granger. He wanted Granger. By this time Draco had an erection so rock hard it hurt him to walk across the room. He went into the bathroom to take care of himself and as he released his liquids, he called out Hermione's name. It was a massive release and Draco had to lean against the shower wall for five minutes waiting for his strength to return.

When Draco came out of the bathroom, he poured himself fire whiskey after fire whiskey until he fell asleep murmuring. "I need you Granger. All I want is a chance."

/*/

While Draco was having his tantrum in the US, Hermione was apparating to the hotel. After changing into comfortable clothes, she dialed Draco's mobile number, which rang and rang. Hermione called room service for supper all the while thinking, 'Draco must be having a piss poor day if he calls just to take his frustration out on me. We will get it sorted because Mr. Malfoy is not going to use me as a kicking board.'

Hermione's supper arrived a short time later, but after taking a few bites, Hermione realized she didn't have any appetite and plunked herself down on the couch with a glass of wine.

The way Draco had spoken bothered her. She decided to get out of the hotel room to get a little air and there was a little coffee shop a few blocks away which would make for a nice little walk.

During her walk, Hermione was troubled and wondered if she had been too hasty leaving London. True she was in Milan working at his company, but did Draco think he could speak to her any way he liked? Hermione sat at the coffee shop for an hour rolling things over in her mind. She had never been a quitter and she wasn't going to quit now. What she would do was get Draco Malfoy straightened out. On the way back in, Hermione checked her mailbox and found she had three letters. Hermione went back to her room, changed into her pajamas and got under the covers to read her letters.

The first letter was from her realtor. She had found three properties she thought Hermione would be interested in and needed to know when Hermione would be available to view them.

The second letter was from Gas. It was a general letter which only wished her a good week and looked forward to their interview on Thursday.

The third letter was from Harry who was just checking in to see how her first week had gone and to relay some news.

Hermione loved the owl service at the hotel. Everything was so easy. She could collect her owl messages at her leisure as well as leave her outgoing letters at the desk to be sent out. She got busy answering the owls.

Hermione wrote to her realtor she would be available on Thursday at 6:30 and had thoughts of trying to rope Gas into accompanying her on her appointments with the realtor.

Hermione replied to Gas, Thank you for your note. It is much appreciated. I need to ask a favor. After our interview on Thursday, would you be available to accompany me to several appointments my realtor has set up? If you won't have time, maybe you could ask Sal to accompany me. I would be ever so grateful. Let me know. Hugs, Hermione.

The letter to Harry was a bit longer. Hermione wrote, 'Things are going well. I've had to do a bit of housecleaning to insure the company runs smoothly, but all is well. At least nobody has tried to kill me yet.(You're supposed to laugh at that). I appreciate you telling me about Emilio. However, I know he left England because he's here in Italy. He's probably staying at his family's estate. Harry, the wanker had the nerve to call me and wants us to talk now we are away from the influence of my 'friends.' I told him to go find Ginny. I've met a wonderful family named the Maidas who have taken me under their care. There is Carmela who is my assistant at DLM, Fausto a lovely bear of a man and two sons, Sal and Gaspare. I'm still living in the hotel, however, Thursday coming I have appointments to see three properties. Hopefully, I will like one of them and be done with living out of a hotel. Please tell everyone I said hello and give them my best wishes especially Theo, Blaise and Seamus. I know it's a long way to come for a party, but after I'm settled in my permanent home I'm hoping to throw a party to which all of you are invited. Who knows, maybe some of you Brits will like Italy enough to stay. Well, I guess that's all for now. I love you Harry. Hermione.

Hermione did not mention anything in her letter about Draco's behavior. She was a grown witch and would get things straightened out with Draco without whining about it to Harry. If she found things between herself and Draco couldn't be sorted, she could always go back to England. She sighed. Trust Malfoy to try and muck things up.

Hermione put the letters aside to be mailed on her way out in the morning.

/*/

Hermione dropped off her letters the Tuesday morning and arrived at DLM a little before 8:00. She looked up to see Lorenzo. "Good morning Hermione. I'll be taking first order today. I'm going to accompany a delivery to France and scout out a few leads I have. The report is on Carmela's desk. I'm hoping when I get back I can show you some of the Italian nightlife."

"I'm glad to see you stepping up Lorenzo. As far as accepting a date, I'm not too sure that would be a good thing. We can discuss it when you get back. Have a successful trip."

Carmela arrived while Hermione was talking to Lorenzo. She said good morning and went about her work. At 11:30, Marta called in. "Everything is going well. I was able to get tons of the Jasmine rice and it's already on it's way to specific warehouse locations in Britain. The paperwork should be in Carmela's hands within the hour. I have a lead on other goods which I'll check out while I'm here in Thailand."

Hermione was impressed. "Great work Marta. Be aware of your surroundings while you are there. I've heard there is a bit of conflict in some parts of the country. Keep your wand handy. I'll talk to you on Thursday then. Good job."

Hermione hummed as she reviewed Monday's paperwork. Around 1:00, Hermione asked Carmela if she was busy for lunch. Carmela informed Hermione she usually ate lunch in their food area and Hermione was welcome to join her because the food wasn't bad. Hermione agreed they would have lunch together.

The two witches returned to the department around 2:10 and Hermione noticed Carmela was all red in the face and asked if Carmela was feeling okay because she looked as though she'd been burned by the sun.

Carmela laughed, "I'm just not used to taking liberties with my lunch hour."

Hermione smiled at her friend. "I understand what you mean Carmella. Today you can say it was my fault." Carmella smiled as she went back to her duties.

/*/

Raul called in at 3:00 to tell Hermione he was making excellent progress. "I've managed to secure almost seven hundred pounds of Ruffing Powder. It is being processed as we speak and should reach DLM sometime late next week and I'm looking for more. I heard you mention Seroffa Root in passing. I managed an excellent price on five hundred pounds of it. The Seroffa Root is being processed and will be shipped along with the Ruffing Powder. It's the processing that takes the longest time. Processing depends on where you are in the chain of things and can sometimes take up to three weeks. That's all I have to report for now. Ciao."

Again Hermione was impressed. These Travelers knew how to do their jobs, they just needed someone to make them toe the line. Hermione told Raul the same thing she expressed to Marta. "Keep your wits about you. Don't follow any strange witches anywhere and keep your wand handy. Your life is worth more than any product."

Raul thanked Hermione for her advice and quipped that he would only follow 'unstrange' witches and would always keep his wand handy." They both had a laugh over his cheeky response.

Hermione didn't hear from Draco at all and she didn't try to contact him. After work, Hermione browsed the shops. Unlike back in London, Hermione wanted to visit the shops. She wanted to have a closet full of lovely clothes, shoes and bags and even though she probably wouldn't have anyone to show them off to for a very long time, she purchased ten sets of lingerie. Hermione also stopped in Well Tressed Witch, a magical beauty shop to get the works. She had her hair cut in a fashionable style and even let the attendant put a small bit of blonde color at the front of her hair. Hermione was very pleased with the result and smirked as she thought, if only Harry could see me now.

Hermione bought some takeaway to eat in her hotel room which turned out to be delicious and after finishing her dinner, she spent most of the evening trying on her new purchases. She even tried on some of the new lingerie and was very impressed with how good she looked. Now, if I could just find a wizard to show them to. Hermione laughed out loud at her last thought. How gauche.

On her trip to the shops Hermione had also purchased a muggle TV, a muggle disc player and a muggle game system call X-Box 360 which all had to be spelled to work, but for a witch as powerful as Hermione, that hadn't been a problem. Now she could watch TV, play the gaming system or listen to music. She was all set.

Hermione was dancing around the room listening to music when she realized she hadn't checked for mail. Leaving her music playing, she went down to the desk to check and again had three pieces of mail. She thanked the mail witch and went back to her room to read the letters.

The first letter was from her realtor. Thursday at 6:30 was perfect. She would meet Hermione at DLM.

The second letter was from Gas. He would be delighted to accompany her to her appointments. Maybe they could stop for coffee afterwards. Hermione smiled at the tenacity of the wizard. She hoped Gas would be just as tenacious with his work.

The third letter was from Fleur Weasley. Fleur had heard about the disturbance at the party and was scolding Hermione for even thinking Ginny would do something like that. Ginny was her friend. What was wrong with her mind? She had Molly all upset. Hermione read as much of the letter as she could stomach then she tossed it aside.

Irritated, Hermione got up from the couch to pour herself a wine. Thanks to Fleur's letter she now had a pounding at the back of her head and was becoming angrier by the minute. Leave it to the Weasley's, any Weasley, to think their family was above everything. Fleur had a nerve writing her a letter with that tone. Fleur wasn't the innocent she pretended to be. Even though it was long ago, Hermione remembered that Fleur was seeing Roger but sneaking away to try to be with Cedric. How dare she question Hermione about anything. Determined to set Fleur straight, Hermione finished her wine, got parchment and pen to write Fleur.

Hermione wrote: Thank you for your letter. However, you are under the mistaken impression you know what transpired between Ginny, myself and my former boyfriend. Before you write a scathing letter about things you don't know anything about, you should check the facts. Maybe you should speak to Ginny or better yet speak to Emilio Lozier. As to how I've upset Molly, I can't imagine. If people didn't carry tales, Molly probably wouldn't have any reason to be upset. I am a fairly reasonable witch, but if you ever feel the need to address me in this manner again, I suggest you throw the parchment away rather than send it because throw it away is exactly what I've done. Hermione Granger.

Hermione felt better after she wrote the letter. Fuck Fleur and her high and mighty attitude. She took a shower and went to sleep.

/*/

Wednesday went along smoothly and everything was according to plan. Hermione had taken her first Travel. She went local to France to meet up with Marta who had secured some tiny items which could be shrunk down and carried home in Hermione's bag. Instead of turning around and coming straight back, Hermione had spent the night in France where Marta had shown her a very nice time.

/*/

On Thursday morning, Hermione first stopped at DLM to drop off the shipment from France and leave a note for Carmela. Then she apparated home to get ready for the day and was back at DLM 11:00. Carmela commented on how much she liked Hermione's new hairstyle which had pleased Hermione because she wasn't sure if she really liked it. She and Carmela went over a few reports and discussed Hermione's Travel to France.

Carmela was thrilled when Hermione presented her with a cute little cancan dancer doll she had picked up in France and had cheeked, "It wouldn't be such a bad thing if you married Gas and gave me brilliant grandchildren."

Hermione almost choked until she realized Carmela was joking. The witches shared a hearty laugh.

Gas showed up precisely at 5:00 and stopped to give his mother a hug as she was leaving.

Gas gave a huge grin when he saw Hermione and stepped over to kiss her cheek. When he stepped back he told Hermione, "I like your new style. You look gorgeous. You'll be catching the eye of all the wizards. Now that I've made a fool of myself yet again, I'm ready if you're ready."

Hermione answered, "Well let's go. I'll show you around and we'll finish up in my office. Thank you for the compliment. It was lovely."

Just as his mother had done for Hermione, Hermione did for Gas. She showed him the entire layout explaining everything they saw. Gas was a quick study and by the time they arrived back in Hermione's office he had a firm grasp on the workings of DLM.

"I wouldn't say no to a Product Evaluation Specialist job if the Travelers job doesn't come through."

Hermione was not all that surprised Gas was interested in quality control as she remembered how thoroughly Gas had searched her hotel room the night Emilio had called harassing her. He hadn't left any corner out of his search.

"I will make a note as this may work out better than we hoped. Initially, I thought I would need to replace several Travelers, but that hasn't turned out to be the case. If you'd rather, I can check to see what is available in PES and get back to you."

Gas felt that was the way he wanted to go. "My first choice is PES. If there isn't anything available, I'll take the Travelers job with the understanding I still want to be a Product Evaluation Specialist."

It was almost 6:30, so with everything settled, Hermione and Gas chatted until time for the realtor to arrive. They didn't have long to wait before the realtor appeared at Hermione's door and was introduced to Gas. The young realtor ran an appreciative eye over Gas as she handed Hermione a list of the properties they would see.

Hermione showed the list to Gas who was extremely impressed with two of the properties, but suggested they look at the flat first because it was the least desirable.

The realtor raised her eyebrows.

Gas immediately apologized. "Sorry. No offense meant."

"None taken, replied the realtor," who put an arm through Hermione and Gas' arm as they headed to the lifts to apparate to the first property.

The flat was amazing. Hermione liked it right away. It was airy, with a spacious kitchen area, plenty of bathrooms and gorgeous wood floors. However, there were drawbacks. No greenery, it was on the top floor of a four floor building and it didn't have an area Hermione could make into a study. Hermione walked back and forth for twenty minutes before telling the realtor she would like to see the other choices.

The realtor's next choice was a small house. Gas whispered, "This property is only a stones throw from my house" as Hermione looked over the outside. The property was a bit small, but it did have a garden area which made Hermione happy. Once Hermione got inside, most of her happiness vanished. The rooms were quite small and the house had fewer bathrooms than the flat. Hermione turned her nose up at the old rugs covering the floor because she specified wood floors and the area set aside for a study was laughable. If Hermione put ten of her books in there, it would be full. Hermione didn't need to spend any more time there to know she didn't like it.

She suggested to the realtor that they move on to the final property,

Hermione was a little perturbed because she had explained in detail what she was looking for and this property didn't meet any of Hermione's requirements. Gas realized Hermione was not happy with this choice so he had wisely kept silent.

Hermione knew as soon as she looked at the next house that barring any unforeseen things such as no baths or no floors, this was her new home. As Hermione followed the realtor into the property, she smiled at Gas. The four bedrooms were massive and an additional room could be used as a study. There were five bathrooms and every floor was made of golden wood. The deal was sealed when Hermione looked out into the garden area. It was a little run down but Hermione had visions of what it could be. This house was perfect.

The realtor recited some other selling points of the house. "The house originally belonged to an international financier. He is in prison and his family has gone back to Buenos Aires, but he had nothing but the best put into this house. The main floo has it's own area so guests won't arrive directly into any living space. There is a delay switch if you choose to screen your guests and there is also a mechanism which can be used to have guests state their identity before you let them through. Each floo has a different chime so you'll know which floo your guest is coming through. The floo can be set up for local as well as international connections. There is a floo in the master bedroom. (Hermione blushed as the realtor's words brought to mind the floo in Draco's bedroom). And there are two sets of locks for the floo. One set will lock all the floos simultaneously, while the other set is at each individual floo. There are magical people who can be hired to set up your connections. If you take the property, I suggest you get your own wards up as quickly as possible. There is a liquor pantry towards the back of the house. The house has all the muggle kitchen items, refrigerator, stove, etc. Even though the former owner was magical, he appreciated muggle things as well."

Hermione was more than pleased. She was ecstatic. She grabbed Gas and hugged him which left him grinning like a Cheshire cat. Hermione explored for another fifteen minutes before she said, "This is my house. I'll take it."

The realtor was pleased with herself over the sale. She just didn't know that things could have gone in the exact opposite direction because Hermione wanted what she wanted with no excuses. If none of the three properties had met with Hermione's approval, the realtor could have looked elsewhere for a client because Hermione would have been looking elsewhere for a realtor.

Even though it was late, the realtor closed the sale the magical way. She and Hermione signed the contract and Hermione produced a draft authorizing the funds to be deducted from her Gringott's account. The purchase agreement and the authorization were forwarded to Gringott's by a special real estate messenger. Thirty minutes later, the title to the house in Hermione's name with the Gringott's stamp of approval magically appeared. It was that simple. Hermione was a homeowner in the magnificent city of Milan, Italy. This time she hugged and kissed Gas who was thrilled with Hermione's behavior.

The realtor thanked Hermione for her business and remarked, "I've never had an easier client. I wish you the best of luck with your new home. The Realtor Service will be sending you a housewarming gift for your new home. Thank you so much. Goodnight."

Before leaving, the realtor handed her card to Gas saying, "In case you need me." Hermione smiled. Her realtor was flirting with Gas. How cute.

It was 8:30 at night, but Hermione took the time to remove the old wards and set her new, stronger ones which would do her until she became accustomed to her new home. She immediately keyed Gas to her wards and floo and told him she would key his family to the wards and floo on Sunday.

Gas grabbed Hermione by the arms. "You hugged and kissed me tonight. This is not the way you treat a wizard you don't want to go out with."

Hermione grinned as she cheeked, "Using muggle psychology on me will not help. Give that realtor a call. She was flirting with you and might let you show her a good time."

Gas looked at the card in his hand. "Maybe I will."

Hermione said, "If you need to go Gas, I'll be fine. I don't want to keep you from things you want to do."

"You mean like calling on that realtor? Thanks for the suggestion. Even though it may not appear to be the case, I can find a witch on my own. I'll wait to hear from you about PES. Goodnight Hermione."

Hermione was startled by Gas' response. She didn't mean to imply he couldn't find a witch. Her little joke hadn't gone over too well and she had evidently offended one of her newest friends. Hermione went back inside the house to have her last look around for the night.

Hermione arrived back at the hotel around 9:30 and found herself in too good a mood to sleep so she put on the music and danced around the room singing, Hermione Granger owned a home in Milan. She fell into bed about 10:30 and slept soundly until morning.

/*/

At 7:00 am Hermione called Carmela at home to tell her about her purchase as well as her need to get a floo consultant in as soon as possible. She promised to be to DLM by noon at the latest and asked Carmela to check with the PES department to see if they had any available openings. Carmela assured Hermione she would keep everything running properly and would check with PES.

Hermione had her shower and breakfast and then she called the realtor to get a reference to someone who could set up all her floo connections. The realtor gave Hermione two references. The first reference called Wizarding Connections was able to take Hermione at 9:00 that morning which was perfect. Hermione gave him directions to the house where she would meet him.

The technician from Wizarding Connections took a load off Hermione's mind. The way he had explained it, all Hermione had to do was give names and countries of the floos she wanted to be connected to and he would do all the work. For now, Hermione would only be connected to Harry, the Maida's, DLM and maybe to her old flat. She would add others as they came up. Hermione felt good. It had taken her all of ten minutes to give the technician the information and he promised to have everything working before 5:00. Hermione thanked him and left to apparate to DLM.

When Hermione arrived at DLM at 9:30, everything was in order. Carmela told her that PES has openings if you need openings, and they asked me to thank you for streamlining their process and tell you things haven't run this smoothly since…never."

Hermione laughed and replied, "Well it looks like I have a position for my best boy."

Carmela smiled. "Until you called this morning I was afraid your house hunting hadn't gone as well as hoped because Gaspare came home in such a strange mood."

Hermione remembered her attempt at humor with Gas the previous evening and hoped she wasn't the cause of his strange mood.