Nods to Dramione. Anxiety/Drama. Enjoy.
Be aware. Rated M for language and romantic interludes down the road.
Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards: Next Time I'll Lie
Draco had been caught out. He hadn't done anything, but he still felt guilty. Maria was trying for his attention and she had been trying since she was first hired. She meant nothing to him and it had been she who had closed his office door which in hindsight Draco realized wasn't proper especially with Hermione in the next room.
Up until that point Draco had remained rational. When Hermione accused him of having a witch in his bed or being in a witch's bed he had drawn the line.
Draco struck back with his words. "I see you've been doing quite a bit of Granger thinking. That's the thinking where no matter the truth it only matters what Hermione believes. That witch has nothing to do with me. She is an overstepping bird who thinks she interests me. She hasn't interested me in all the time she's been at DLM, but that hasn't stopped her from trying. I don't reciprocate Hermione. Stop over thinking things with that big brain."
Hermione immediately sniped back. "So my big brain isn't allowed to think about you being around other witches, but your big brain can imagine anything you want about me being around other wizards. Fine Draco. Whatever. If you want me, I'm right in front of you."
"I know you're right in front of me Hermione. Are you willing to be with me and me alone or will I always be second to the fuckers who are constantly "vying" for your attention?" Tell me. We can end this standoff here and now. I want you in my life. I just don't necessarily want the baggage that comes with you."
Hermione stopped in the middle of putting her arm into her jumper and blushed red. "You want me, but you don't want my baggage. Well fuck me Draco Malfoy. I'm so sorry I'm so much trouble. Why don't you run along home and get ready for your day. Perhaps if you're lucky, Maria will show up without knickers then you can use those "experienced" fingers to make her happy. If you'll excuse me." Hermione went into the bathroom and closed the door. Hermione couldn't get out of her own way because every time she fixed her makeup, tears ruined it. She stood looking in the mirror thinking it was going to be a very long day.
Chapter 9: Everything Is Perfect
Draco was gone when Hermione came out of the bathroom. She sat on the edge of her bed thinking for an additional fifteen minutes, but then had fallen back on her strength. She marched back into the bathroom and fixed her makeup one last time. Draco had hired her to do a job and that's what she was going to do. Grabbing her bag and wand, she was ready to get to DLM and start her day.
/*/
Because of her conversation with Draco, Hermione was running a little late and arrived at DLM at 8:15 instead of her regular 8:00 am. Carmela wished Hermione a good morning and handed her the days orders and requirements. She also brought Hermione up to date regarding their newest client. It seemed the Minister was not happy he would not be dealing with her and was proposing pulling Ministry business from DLM.
Hermione turned to Carmela and the whole story showed in her eyes. She may not be aware of who the Italian Minister of Acquisitions really was, but she damn sure knew Hermione hadn't withdrawn her participation as this had been Hermione's baby from the start and the Minister had specifically requested her.
"I hope I haven't overstepped Hermione, but I messaged the Minister to let him know there had been some mix up as you are still the person in charge of his account. Minister Lozier would like someone to get back to him today. He wants assurances."
Hermione assured Carmela she would contact the Minister straightaway, but hadn't bothered to ask who had changed contacts because she thought she knew. Everyone had their little tricks and Hermione had tons of them. Wanting to head off a problem, she immediately dialed up Emilio. When James put her through, Hermione greeted the Minister, "Good morning Emilio. I hear there has been some kind of mix up. Let me assure you I have no intention of giving up your account. In fact, I would like to set an appointment for 1:30 this afternoon. I want to go over things to see if they are to your liking. Is that acceptable to you?"
Emilio was stunned. He understood that Draco Malfoy was probably behind the proposed change in contacts, but what he had not expected was a call from the witch he loved. Of course 1:30 was acceptable. Midnight would have been acceptable. Emilio answered that 1:30 was fine and asked if she wanted a lunch meeting or would rather meet in his office?
Hermione thought about it for a few seconds. "Why don't we roll both into one. We can have a working lunch. Why don't you floo through and pick me up. I have the best Italian assistant in the world. She could probably give us pointers on the best places to go."
Emilio paused before speaking. "Have you forgotten I was born and raised around Milan. I know the perfect place to go. I'll see you at 1:30 and if possible I would like a tour of your facilities."
"I did forget so I'll defer to your choice of restaurants and you are welcome to a tour."
Hermione looked up to see Carmela smiling at her. "I'd like for us to have a talk. Would it be possible for you to floo through to my home later this evening? There are some things I would like my mother figure to know."
Carmela smiled. "Why don't I meet you there for 6:00. I want to floo home to be sure Fausto and the boys are all set and I'll come through after. If you need to be alone for a bit, just lock your floo. I'll understand."
Hermione smiled at this very wise woman and remarked, "Nothing like that will happen. I'll see you at 6:00."
/*/
Both witches worked at their respective tasks until 1:00 when Hermione told Carmela she was going to freshen up and would be back before 1:30. Hermione flooed home to change. She wanted to look feminine but businesslike for her lunch meeting so she discarded her slacks and top and had changed into a close fitting sheath with matching shoes and bag and chose to wear her hair down. Wizards seemed to be caught unaware when a witch came to a meeting wearing her hair down. They seemed to believe they could get the upper hand of a feminine looking witch, but if the witch was on her game, the wizards usually found out differently by the end of the meeting. That probably wasn't true, but it was the way Hermione looked at it.
Hermione arrived back at DLM before 1:30 to have Carmela tell her, "Your lunch engagement has arrived and he is bloody gorgeous. I've put him in the main conference room and Mr. Malfoy has left for the day."
Hermione thanked Carmela and reiterated, "I will see you at 6:00." Then Hermione had gone to the main conference room to meet Emilio who was at his charming best. He reminded Hermione of his request for a tour and she had been proud to show off DLM. She was very proud to be part of this company.
Willem had been thrilled to meet the Minister of Acquisitions. Willem and Emilio had chatted as he showed them around the warehouse.
It was after 2:00 when Emilio asked Hermione if she was ready to take their meeting because the reservations were for 2:30. Hermione nodded as Emilio shook hands with Willem and the rest of the employees who had gathered about. They left through the warehouse door and once outside, Emilio apparated them to Il Pasto.
/*/
Il Pasto was well suited to business meetings as it was set up with several small meeting rooms where business wizards and witches could have lunch with their clients in private. Emilio had selected one of these rooms for their meeting. Emilio ordered for them both and the food had been delightful.
Emilio was just so glad Hermione had requested lunch with him he really hadn't prepared an itinerary. He let Hermione present to him and as usual, Hermione had everything in order. Everything Emilio heard was satisfactory. He didn't have a doubt that DLM would serve the Ministry well and had only used this meeting as an excuse to see Hermione again. He had been day dreaming about how beautiful Hermione looked when her voice broke through his reverie.
"Is everything to your liking Emilio. Is there anything you want changed?"
"Everything appears to be in order. There is one point I am wondering about. What was the change of contact message about? I'll do business with DLM as long as you are my contact. If you are removed from my account, I will pull Ministry business contract or not."
Hermione was at a loss for an explanation and said so. "I don't understand what happened, but I'll have to track down the mix up. As I said, I will be your representative and there will not be any changes."
After the meeting, Emilio asked Hermione if she needed an escort back to DLM? Hermione put out her hand. "It has been a productive lunch Emilio. Thank you. I don't need an escort back to DLM. We'll speak again."
Hermione turned to walk away, but Emilio reached out for her hand. "The Ministry is giving a ball in honor of all newly installed Ministers, Heads and Suppliers. May I invite the DLM company to join us? You are all welcome. The ball is Saturday after next. I will send the formal invitations by messenger. It's my hope you will be able to attend. I'll walk you out."
Reminiscent of months ago, Emilio took Hermione's elbow and walked her out. They bid each other goodbye outside the restaurant and Hermione apparated directly home.
/*/
When Hermione reached home she was surprised to find her lunch meeting had lasted over two hours and it was after 5:00. She took a quick shower thinking how productive the meeting had been. Ministry business would remain with DLM for at least a year and that was what it was all about, keeping Ministry business.
Hermione had changed into a short, sleeveless house dress and gone into the kitchen to prepare a supper for her and Carmela when the floo chimed. From the tone of it, it was the chime for her bedroom floo. Hermione frowned a bit as she hurried to the floo to press the button which required guests to state their name. Hermione pressed the button to hear, Draco. She pressed the button which opened all floos wondering why the hell is Draco coming through my bedroom floo?
Hermione stepped back as Draco stepped out. He tried his best not to be obvious, but it was so apparent he was checking for….. who knows what. Hermione greeted Draco, ignored the rest of it and invited him to come through to the living room. Once in the living room, Hermione questioned if there was a reason he came through the bedroom floo instead of the main floo and Draco simply stated he must have mistakenly said bedroom floo and apologized for the error.
Draco changed the subject as he commented on Hermione's attire. "You look really fit in that little dress." Hermione thanked him and asked if she could get him a drink.
"I'll get it myself. I remember where the drinks are kept."
Hermione shrugged and sat down on the couch. It was getting close to 6:00 so Carmela should be coming through anytime.
Draco asked if he could take a shower and lay down, but Hermione wasn't going to let this pass without some kind of explanation so she asked if everything was okay at his flat. Draco responded that everything was fine, he just liked her home better than his flat.
Draco grimaced inside because his excuse sounded flimsy even to him. He was aware of Hermione's lunch meeting with Lozier and was there to make sure it hadn't gone any further than lunch. It appeared Hermione had forgiven Lozier and he didn't like that at all, especially while he and Hermione were at odds about their relationship. There was no way Draco was going to tell Hermione the real reason he was there or why he had come through her bedroom floo. One argument a day was enough.
Hermione suggested to Draco he may want to leave because Carmela was stopping by for a bit of conversation and she didn't want him to feel uncomfortable.
Draco smiled as he headed for the bedroom. "In that case I'll just take my shower and play the muggle X-Box 360. It's pretty interesting. I'll put up silencing charms if you like and after Carmela leaves, I'd like for us to talk. I don't like the way we left things this morning."
Hermione thought the silencing charm was a great idea. She didn't mention it to Draco, but she was going to throw up silencing charms around her and Carmela anyway. As far as having a conversation with Draco, she didn't mind because he was absolutely correct. The conversation they'd had that morning had been ugly and they needed to clear the air. Each now knew where the other stood, but neither liked their position. Draco wanted her in a box and she wanted him to make some kind of declaration. As she would not allow herself be boxed in, Draco would not make any declaration. Stalemate.
Draco was going to be surprised with their talk because she had made a decision not to let him run her friends and future prospects away while he continued to have witches in his face and in his office behind closed doors. She didn't have any prospects, but Draco's presence would certainly discourage anyone who wanted to be. It was a fact she liked the way Draco made her feel, but there had to be other wizards who could make her feel just as good. Draco had awakened her sexual monster and the monster was not going back to sleep, so if they couldn't make a relationship work and she had to move on, she would.
A momentary flash of Emilio's face flashed before her. Hermione uttered, "Oh no. Not you."
Draco who was still standing there asked if she was saying no to them having a conversation.
"Sorry. I was just thinking out loud answered Hermione. A conversation would be lovely." Draco nodded before going into the bedroom and closing the door.
/*/
Carmela came through the floo at 6:15 and took a seat in the kitchen across from Hermione. Hermione asked if she had a chance to eat or had she just fed the boys.
Carmela smiled. "As a matter of fact, I didn't take time to eat. I'll have something later."
"Well I've made us pasta with chicken for us, replied Hermione." And I'll be putting up a silencing charm so we can talk.
Carmela was a little surprised, but didn't comment.
Hermione invited Carmela to help herself and when both the witches had food and a drink in front of them, Hermione began to speak. "Carmela, you and your family have been so good to me. I would never have imagined being so openly and honestly invited into someone's home. I lost both my parents shortly after the war, but I feel as though you, Fausto, Gas and Sal have become my family and it's a very good feeling. I haven't had a witch to discuss things with in a terribly long time so I hope you don't mind if I burden you with some of my thoughts."
Carmela shushed Hermione. "You are a very personable, strong and friendly witch who could not be a burden to us even if you tried."
Hermione thought she knew this was how they felt, but was very glad to hear Carmela say it. She looked at Carmela and began to explain. "I left a mucked up scene back in London. I had a best friend witch who decided she wanted my wizard and it all came to a head the night before I came to Milan with the end result being he and I breaking up. He has contacted me since I've been in Milan and I've refused to speak with him about anything personal. There was another wizard in England who had made certain statements regarding his feelings for me as well. The bottom line is Draco is the wizard who made the statements about his feelings and the new Minister of Acquisitions Emilio Lozier was my wizard. How's that for being mucked up?"
"I'm a witch Hermione and I have eyes and ears. Emilio is a fairly common name in Italy, but I put two and two together to figure out the Emilio on your mobile was probably the same Emilio who would only accept you as the liaison between the Ministry and DLM. It wasn't hard to sort out. As far as Mr. Malfoy is concerned, he mentioned you fairly often before you arrived. He praised your work ethics on a daily basis and had your office set up to precise specifications. Just before he left for California this last time, he was in a vicious snit over something that happened in London pertaining to you. I thought perhaps you and he had just broken off a relationship. I am not as unaware as you might think. Who will you choose?"
Hermione laughed. "In reality, it would seem Draco has chosen for me. He wants us to become an exclusive couple, which is fine, but he flies off the handle if another wizard approaches me even for the simplest of things and our relationship has hit a wall at the moment. Emilio has only gone as far as ask my forgiveness for the madness in London so I don't think he'll be a problem."
Carmela cleared the table with her wand as she answered. "You may not see a problem with the Minister, but speaking from an entirely objective standpoint, there's already a problem. The Minister had nothing but admiration in his eyes when he looked at you. I don't think he's going to give up trying to get back into your good graces and Mr. Malfoy looks at you through eyes of love when he thinks no one is watching. You are a lucky witch Hermione. You have two very handsome wizards interested in you. I hope it all works out."
Hermione sighed. It did feel better to talk to Carmela, but it hadn't done anything to alleviate the problem. Maybe she and Draco could work it out later.
Hermione released the silencing charm and she and Carmela went into the living room to continue their chat. They were still chatting when Sal and Gas stepped out of the floo an hour later. They both kissed Hermione on the cheek by way of a greeting while Sal told his mother that their father was getting restless and wanted to know when she was coming home.
Hermione grinned as Carmela stood and told her it was time she got home.
Sal did most of the talking, but Gas had added, "It was nice to meet the Minister of Acquisitions today. Thank you for bringing him to the warehouse. His name is Emilio Lozier and he has just relocated from the British Ministry. Am I correct?"
Hermione nodded.
"Is this the Emilio who was giving you a bad time on the mobile?"
Hermione acknowledged, "They are one and the same Gas."
Gaspare looked longingly at Hermione, but only replied, "Be careful then Hermione. You have to watch out for these Italian men." Hermione laughed and hugged him and the three Maida's waved as they stepped into the floo with Carmela calling out, "I'll see you in the morning."
Hermione locked her floo after they left and as she sat down on the couch. Emilio passed through her mind once again and once again Hermione spoke out loud. "Oh no you don't."
Draco had come out of the bedroom. "Were you talking to me?"
Hermione told him she had just been talking to herself….again.
Draco sat down in one of the living room chairs and asked, "Shall we have that talk now?"
Hermione nodded and waited for Draco to begin. Draco shifted uncomfortably before saying anything. "We said some scathing things to each other this morning. I want to apologize and say my temper got away from me. I didn't mean to imply you are a problem to me. You're not. What I meant to say was, I'm uncomfortable with wizards who are always in the face of my witch. It gives those wizards too much of an opportunity to form thoughts or take actions they shouldn't."
Draco hoped he was phrasing his words in a manner which wouldn't lead to another shout down. He had so much to say and not in such pretty prose, but he was holding his tongue in order to get good results. He had taken the silencing charm off the bedroom door over thirty minutes ago and had heard the Maida men come into Hermione's living room. He had immediately begun to seethe inside and had been on the verge of coming out to greet them, but had decided better. He realized it would not be a good thing for him to come striding out of Hermione's bedroom. At least not until he and Hermione agreed to date each other exclusively. He didn't want any clouds cast on Hermione's name. He was also upset because he'd heard Gaspare Maida mention that Lozier was calling Hermione on her personal mobile, but he would deal with that another time. Tonight he wanted their conversation to remain friendly.
"I want you to know I'm not in any other witch's bed. I have not lost anything in any witch's bed nor do I stick my "experienced" fingers inside any witch. Those were unkind remarks Hermione and I don't think I deserved them. We are not disagreeing because we think either of us has another partner. We are disagreeing about the manner in which we carry ourselves. With all that said, I would like to ask you to be my witch. I want us to be a couple."
Hermione sat stock still. Draco had just asked her to be his witch and her head was spinning. Was he asking her just because he'd seen that Emilio was back in her life? Was he using her to be one up on Emilio? What had changed? Hermione's heart told her to say yes, but her head had a lot of questions. "What do I have to do to be your witch? Do I have to give up speaking to other wizards altogether? Will you be unkind if you find me speaking to Willem or Gas or Emilio?"
Draco jumped up. All his good intentions had evaporated. He did not want to hear the name Lozier come out of Hermione's mouth. "So you've forgiven Lozier for what went on in England? Have you hesitated giving me an answer because he's back in your life? Shall I stand by while the Minister of Acquisitions finds a place in your-?"
Hermione stood as well and shouted, "How dare you? If you finish that fucking sentence I'll hex you blind." She flew into a fury wondering what Draco took her for.
Hermione was yelling and Draco was yelling.
As they were shouting their loudest, Draco snarled, "I was going to say heart Hermione. A place in your heart, but I see we are thinking along different lines. You are protesting too much. It is your claim that Lozier was never in your bed. Perhaps he is trying to work his way there. Perhaps you want him there. I won't stand for this. Will you or will you not be mine and mine alone?"
Hermione was raging inside. "My claim? My claim? This is incredible. When I was with Emilio, he worried that I wanted to be with you. Now you are here worrying that I want to be with Emilio. I will not do this. I will not step into the middle of another maelstrom. I will remain alone before I do that. No. I will not be your witch."
With that answer, Draco slumped back down in the chair and Hermione slumped back down on the couch.
They were both spent and sat in silence for over ten minutes.
In a soft voice Draco asked, "Why does it always come down to this? Why is it we can't have a normal conversation without going at each other? My feelings for you grow every day. You are the witch I want and I don't understand why you can't see this. I don't care about Lozier. I only care that he hurt you and I would just as soon hex him as look at him. If you consent to be my witch, I will not let thoughts of Lozier come between us. I've wanted this chance for so long and I don't want to give up Hermione, but a one sided relationship never works out. I don't want to sit and wait years for you to fall for me as I've fallen for you. If you really meant what you said about not being with me, you need to tell me now while we are calm and rational."
Hermione started to speak and with every other word a tear fell. "I am calm and I am rational. I don't know why I said those things. I do care about you and I do want to be your witch."
By now Hermione was crying so hard she didn't notice Draco move beside her until he lifted her chin to wipe away her tears. "Please don't cry love. Potter would have my arse if he thought I was making you cry. It is my intention to make you happy, not make you cry."
Hermione laid her head on Draco's shoulder. "You don't make me cry. I think I make myself cry."
Draco cheeked, "Thank goodness. I had a feeling it was all you."
Hermione smiled as Draco gently ran his fingers through her hair pushing it back off her face whispering, "Do you realize you just consented to be my witch and it was done while we were calm and rational?"
Hermione nodded. "Yes Draco Malfoy I am now your witch and I hope this means you are mine and mine alone as well. I do not care to have other witches in your face or in your office behind a locked door."
Draco chuckled, "Well. I think we're going to be alright as we both don't want the same things. Am I allowed to make our relationship known?"
Hermione nodded. "We can tell our friends as we see them and as you are the owner of DLM, you are entitled to date whomever you wish."
After Hermione's comments, Draco felt safe enough to make a projection. "They'll all figure it out when I put a ring on that finger," and they had sealed their new relationship with a passionate, lingering kiss.
Hermione blushed when she thought about what Draco had just said. They had only just decided to give it a try and he was already talking about a ring on her finger. She was pleasantly surprised by his words. She and Draco sat there for over an hour talking calmly and rationally before she asked if he wanted pasta with chicken. Draco had readily agreed to some dinner telling Hermione he was starved and followed her through to the kitchen holding on to her waist and nuzzling her neck as they went.
Hermione laughed at Draco. "Taking liberties now we are a couple are you? Let me go you git. I'm trying to get you food."
"I'll trade that food for you any day of the week, Draco smirked as he tried to pull Hermione's dress up around her shoulders. Would you like me to show you?"
Hermione pushed Draco away and told him to sit down at the table and if he was good, he might get dessert."
Draco stretched out both hands. "Pass me that food please. I need to eat quickly so I can get to the best part of the meal, the dessert."
While Draco ate, Hermione nuzzled his neck and played with his hair. Finally she leaned over to whisper in his ear. "Your dick is getting quite big. Is it something I said?"
"You haven't seen anything yet, Draco quipped. Wait until I take off my boxers."
Hermione laughed and went into the living room to turn on some music. She picked a muggle tune called Breathe by Faith Hill after which she went to the kitchen door and held out her arms telling Draco to come dance with her because she wanted to fell his arms around her.
Draco came through, grabbed his witch and held her closely listening to her sing the words. As they danced, he let his lips slide over Hermione's cheek until he found her lips and moaned against her mouth, I am so glad you're mine.
Hermione pulled Draco tighter and whispered, "This is an amazing song that makes a witch want to be loved by her wizard."
Without another word, Draco took Hermione by the hand, led her to the bedroom and in a very husky voice replied, "Let your wizard see if he can help you with that" as he lifted Hermione's dress. When he pulled the dress over Hermione's head and realized she wasn't wearing any underwear, Draco nearly lost his erection and stopped to question if she had really been around other wizards without her knickers.
Hermione put a finger against Draco's lips and answered, "I was and nothing happened. It wasn't intentional as I did not know Sal and Gas would stop by."
Draco frowned because being around wizards without knickers was unacceptable. He picked Hermione up, laid her on the bed, undressed himself and laid down beside her. Draco ran his fingers up and down Hermione's stomach and she began to wriggle as her body became more inflamed and even though he was in the middle of foreplay, Draco couldn't let the knickers thing pass. Watching Hermione lying there wet for him he ran his fingers between her legs and softly growled that she should wear knickers. Then he gently pushed her legs apart and explored her with his fingers whispering, "Have I made you this wet? I think you're ready for me."
Hermione nodded as she looked Draco in the face and replied, "Just love me."
Draco remembered those words from months ago. This witch was finally his and he would be able to make love to her without interference from anyone. He plunged into Hermione and she had screamed out and grabbed onto him.
Draco looked at her and demanded, "Look at me. Are you mine and mine alone?"
Hermione moaned out a yes and held on tighter.
They fit perfectly and Draco plunged into Hermione again and again. As he thrust, Hermione had thrust back. Draco was moaning her name which had further inflamed her. Draco was taking her to that pinnacle of sex, the climax. He felt Hermione's muscles tighten around his dick so he pumped faster and felt himself climb right along with her. Hermione was right there crying out, "Don't stop Draco. Take me over. Make me cum." Hearing those words come out of Hermione's mouth made Draco feel invincible and he gasped, "I'm cumming love. Cum with me." Hermione lifted her legs and Draco hit her spot just right and she was shouting, "Oh Draco. Oh Merlin. Oooh." They came together as Draco released his liquids and pushed every last bit of liquid out of his witch as well.
Draco fell across Hermione before gathering enough strength to roll off onto his back and as he laid there trying to catch his breath, Hermione cheeked, "1." Draco tried to laugh, but didn't have the strength.
/*/
Hermione's mobile rang and with their liquids still dripping from her she stood to answer it. After saying hello, Hermione sat down on the edge of the bed to talk. Draco watched and listened closely thinking Lozier was trying to contact Hermione again, but it wasn't him because Hermione finally said, "That's fine. I'll call Gas. Maybe he can get there before me, but I should be there within twenty minutes."
"What's going on? Where do you need to be Hermione?"
"I need to be at DLM. There are shipments at the door and no one there authorized to receive them. The bloody shipments were supposed to have been at DLM before 4:00 when Willem and Gas were available. Willem is out checking the product of the Ministry's former supplier and isn't available tonight. I'll have Gas act as quality control and I'll check the products in."
"I'd really rather you didn't go alone. I'll go with you." They didn't have time for showers so they both cast cleansing spells over themselves and dressed. Hermione dialed Gas, told him what she needed and asked that he meet her at DLM in twenty.
Draco stood ready and waiting as Hermione threw on a jumper and jeans. She and Draco arrived at DLM within fifteen minutes to find Gas already there. Hermione and Draco went directly to the receiving door and began logging the items while Gas reviewed the incoming goods for quality. With only two of them working the receiving door, it took two hours to get all the product in.
Gas was still working when they finished and still had a ton of work left, but Draco went over to tell him he should leave the rest until the morning. Gas told Draco he didn't mind staying because it would be less to do in the morning.
Draco who was impressed by Gas' work ethic clapped him on the back and told him to leave it. Gas nodded and as he turned to go, Draco stretched out his hand thanking Gas.
"You're welcome Mr. Malfoy."
Draco clapped him on the back again. "Call me Draco."
"Okay then, replied Gas. Goodnight Hermione. Good night Draco. I'll see you in the morning."
/**/
When they arrived back at the house, Hermione and Draco went directly to bed and were both back up at 6:00 am. They had managed five hours of sleep. Draco kissed Hermione, told her he would see her later and flooed home to shower and dress.
As she dressed, Hermione realized this would be her and Draco's first full day as a couple and tried to imagine how the day would go. Hermione had a quick spot of tea and a piece of toast before flooing to work arriving just before 8:00 with Carmela not long behind her. Hermione and Carmela chatted for a minute about last night's late delivery with Hermione commending Gas on his work and telling Carmela that Draco was very impressed with Gas. Carmela raised an eyebrow, but didn't comment on the fact that Draco had been involved.
Hermione didn't have a chance to tell Carmela she and Draco were now a couple before he came through the door, but Carmela found out on her own when Draco said good morning to her then went round to kiss Hermione on the lips.
Carmela put her eyes on the parchments on her desk and kept them there until Draco went into his office after which she went over to Hermione and whispered, "So you've made your choice then? Congratulations. There will be some pouting lips around this place." She and Hermione had a quiet giggle before Hermione went back to her own office.
Before the end of the day, it was known throughout DLM that Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger were a couple. The rumors were amazing. One rumor suggested that Hermione and Draco had been married in England, but had divorced. Another rumor intimated they were already bonded, but keeping it a secret. Hermione and Carmela laughed almost all day.
Ironically, it was Maria's first day back and true to form she had sauntered by Hermione and Carmela heading straight for Draco's office.
Carmela called out, "Mr. Malfoy doesn't want to be disturbed."
Maria hadn't slowed down calling back over her shoulder, "He'll see me." It was all of two minutes before a visibly flustered Maria came back through rolling her eyes in Hermione's direction.
Carmela stopped her to ask, "Were you able to return whatever it is Mr. Malfoy lost? If not, I'll be happy to pass it to him." Maria huffed as she left the office.
Hermione had kept her head down while Carmela made her comments to Maria, but Draco stuck his head out of his office and asked her to come in for a moment. When Hermione entered his office, Draco kissed her. "Maria won't be taking any more liberties with my office door and I took a page out of your book love. I made my position regarding her visits to my office perfectly clear. I also told her, if she wasn't happy with the arrangement, she could seek employment elsewhere. And funny thing, when I asked what had she found that belonged to me, she didn't have an answer."
"Thank you love," Hermione remarked before kissing Draco and heading back to her office…..and the rest of the day had gone well. Draco took Hermione to lunch and then went out to a meeting.
Before Carmela left for the day she suggested Hermione bring Draco to dinner with her on Sunday since they were now a couple. Hermione told Carmela she would mention it to Draco and called out goodnight as her friend left for the night.
/*/
Willem stopped in to tell Hermione everything was ready for the Ministry's first delivery and asked if Hermione wanted him to call the Minister or would she rather do it herself. Hermione asked that he call and on the chance he couldn't reach Emilio, she would call in the morning. After they finished speaking about the delivery, Willem was in the middle of apologizing for not being available the previous night when Draco came back into the office and greeted Willem with a handshake.
"I stopped at home, Draco advised Hermione. When you weren't there I figured you were still here."
Willem wished them both a goodnight and left to go back downstairs. Hermione smiled as she bid Willem a good night over the way Draco had made his status known. He and Hermione had a home. Just Draco marking his territory. He stopped by home. Really Draco? Home? Hermione giggled as she got up to kiss her wizard.
Draco asked if she was ready to go and Hermione nodded as she got her bag and wand.
/*/
There was takeaway waiting when Hermione reached home. Draco explained he had brought it in when he stopped by earlier. Hermione gave him a lovely kiss for being so thoughtful.
Hermione went in to change her clothes and had noticed there were quite a few things which belonged to Draco so she called out, "When did you bring your things?"
"I like your home better than I like my flat so I brought changes of clothes in earlier when I dropped off the takeaway. I hope you don't mind."
"I don't mind a bit."
They talked as they ate with Draco inquiring if Hermione felt like flooing through to London on Friday or Saturday so they could catch up with Harry and the group. Hermione agreed a night with their friends would be fun and mentioned she thought Friday would be a better night because they were invited for Sunday dinner at the Maida's and would probably have to cut a Saturday night short.
Draco wanted to frown, but thought better of it. Things were going too well for him to muck them up now. When Draco agreed to accompany her to the Maida's on Sunday, Hermione climbed onto his lap and gave him another kiss.
"All I have to say is yes to get you to sit on my lap? Yes for tomorrow. Yes for the next day and the next day."
Hermione got off his lap calling out, "You're a git Mr. Malfoy. Now come on in the bedroom. I want to challenge you to some X-Box 360. They were both so competitive it figured to be a challenging game. One game turned into three with Hermione tiring first and Draco claiming victory as Master of the Universe. He tried to wake Hermione so he could show her exactly the MOTU could do with an erection, but she was dead sleep.
Not tired himself, Draco went out to the living room to listen to the muggle music which was slowly growing on him. As he sat drinking a fire whiskey, thinking about Hermione and mulling things over, Draco realized that except for a small kink, he hadn't ever been happier. Having Hermione meant all the difference to him and he would do everything to keep her. Draco leaned his head back against the couch as he listened to Hermione's song which was what he called Breathe by Faith Hill. The song gave him visions of how Hermione looked lying beneath him while they made love and after he had made her cum. She was so beautiful and brilliant.
Draco's thoughts drifted to Lozier and how the piece of shite had suddenly appeared in Italy. Hermione might not want to admit it, but Draco knew Lozier was still after her and probably would be until he died. Draco couldn't prevent Hermione and Lozier from interacting as proven by his misguided attempt to remove Hermione as Lozier's contact at DLM, but he wouldn't stop trying. He just didn't want Hermione around Lozier. Life would be almost perfect if Lozier would just keel over dead and Draco fell asleep envisioning the ways he could help Lozier die.
/**/
When he woke in the morning, Hermione was laying with her head on his hips and he smiled at the fact his witch didn't want to sleep without him and that was the way Draco wanted it to remain. He tried to get up without waking Hermione, but she woke as soon as he tried to move her. He kissed her on her forehead, ran his fingers through her hair and told her to go back to sleep while he went to take his shower and get dressed.
Draco woke Hermione when he finished dressing and she staggered into the bathroom to start her morning preparations. They ate breakfast together, with Draco flooing in early telling Hermione he would be out on business all afternoon, but needed to clear his desk of several pressing things before he left
/*/
Marta who was back from her Travel had stopped in to see Hermione first thing and commented, "So you've landed Draco. How nice for you. It didn't take-."
Marta was stopped in mid sentence as Draco remarked, "First, Hermione didn't land me. I landed her. Second, Why is our relationship any of your affair? If I ever hear you address Hermione in that manner again, you will be unemployed. Does that sound familiar? It should. It comes directly from the Head. Now go do your job. In fact, why don't you take first order today. That should keep your nose out of other witch's affairs."
Marta replied, "Yes Mr. Malfoy. My apologies. I'll go check on first order."
Draco returned to his office without saying another word.
Carmela didn't comment, but she had grinned like mad woman.
/*/
Around 11:00, James Wooley, assistant to the Minister of Acquisitions had stepped through the floo asking to see Hermione. Carmela had taken the message and gone down to accompany James back up to the main floor. James was pleased to see Hermione again and told her he had come with the invitations to the Ministry Ball set for Saturday, September 19th. She thanked him and expected he would be on his way. However, he also had a message for her from the Minister.
Hermione read the note; Hermione: There is an order which will need to be picked up later this afternoon and since you will be here at the Ministry anyway, I'm hoping you will accompany me out to a working business lunch to discuss my account. Emilio D. Lozier, Minister of Acquisitions.
Hermione thanked James for the message and told him she would call the Minister. James waved goodbye and Carmela escorted him back to the floo. As Hermione dialed Emilio's Ministry number, she expected Draco to come out of his office shouting vile things about Emilio, but he hadn't. Emilio answered and she greeted him. "Good afternoon Emilio. James has informed me you have an order ready for pick up. Will you feel comfortable sending it by messenger?"
"I would rather there be no mistakes, answered Emilio. I would like it picked up by hand."
Hermione sighed softly. "I'll have it picked up."
"Does that mean you won't be picking up the order? I thought we agreed it would be you taking care of my account."
"I am taking care of your account Emilio, Hermione snapped. However, I won't be delivering it to you on my back. Stop being a git and send the order by messenger or accept I am sending Willem or Gas to pick it up."
Emilio snapped right back, "You are my account representative. If you want our order, come get it. It will be ready by 1:00. I'll speak to you then," and disconnected the call.
Carmela asked, "Problems with the Minister?"
Hermione shook her head. "No problem Carmela. Just dealing with a git. I will be leaving the building for a bit around 1:00. I'll have my mobile if you need me."
Hermione wondered why Draco hadn't come out of his office raising the roof about Emilio, but remembered he was out of the building on business for the rest of the afternoon. She tried to call Draco to let him know what was going on, but his mobile was off. She became a bit annoyed because this was the second time she had tried to reach Draco and his mobile was off. She was going to have a chat with him about the need for him to keep his mobile on because it was a business tool after all. Hermione left Draco a message explaining she had to go to the Ministry to pick up an order but should be back to DLM by 2:30 at the latest and she'd speak to him soon.
/*/
At 1:10, Hermione left Carmela a note, gathered her wand and her bag and flooed to the Ministry. James came down to fetch her from the reception point. "Nice to see you again Hermione. I hope Minister Lozier wasn't too hard on you. Something came up that has put him in an absolute bear of a mood. You've been warned."
Hermione smiled as she remarked, "Don't worry James. I'm as tough as he is."
"Duly noted," remarked James.
Emilio's face had broken into a wide grin when he saw Hermione and he had come forward with his hand stretched out. "Hermione. Nice to see you again."
The door hadn't closed good before Hermione asked, "Why is it necessary for me to come in person Emilio? If you don't trust our messenger service, I'm sure we can set up something more secure."
Emilio answered by saying, "I just want my account to have specialized attention. Now. If it is acceptable to you, I have set up a lunch meeting for today at Il Pasto to go over our business affairs."
Hermione sighed, "You know you're being outrageous don't you Emilio? Will you ever trust anyone else with your account? Willem or Gas would be perfect."
Emilio smiled, "I'll let you off the account when you marry me. At that point, you can stay home and have my babies."
Hermione sniped, "Keep it up and the Head of DLM is going to smack the Minister of Acquisitions across the face."
Emilio sniped right back, "I won't be taking any more smacks across the face. Thank you."
Hermione smiled, "I apologize for that. It was the situation and I was beyond angry. Regarding these lunches you set up, this is the last one. We have perfectly good conference rooms over at DLM and we will be using them from here on out."
Emilio held out his arm. "Let's not think about that now. We have reservations. This will be a very special lunch. I guarantee it."
/*/
Once outside, Emilio apparated them to Il Pasto where the greeter hurried over when she realized the new Minister had appeared for his reservation. The greeter was leading Hermione and Emilio to their private room when Emilio stopped in mid step. Hermione immediately saw what Emilio had spotted. He had spotted Draco at lunch with three other people including an older witch who was sitting close to Draco. Very close to Draco. So close that Hermione wondered how Draco could even move his arm to eat.
Emilio went up to the table and addressed the people who were with Draco. The wizard across from Draco grinned, "Emilio. How are you my boy? How are your mother and father? Congratulations on your new position. I know you'll be brilliant."
The woman sitting next to Draco said, "My sentiments exactly Mr. Minister. Have you met my very good friend Draco Malfoy? He's a prominent businessman here in Milan. He's promised if I'm good he'll show me things I've never seen. I've seen a lot so I'm looking forward to our adventure."
Emilio replied, "I apologize, but I've forgotten your name."
The witch said her name, but Hermione wasn't listening. She was still digesting the way the witch had spoken about Draco. She spoke as though he was her lover.
Hermione blushed.
Emilio introduced Hermione, "May I introduce Hermione Granger. She is an associate who is taking time off her duties to take a lunch meeting regarding Ministry business. Miss Granger agreed to meet with me to help alleviate concerns I have with a new project."
Draco hadn't said a thing.
Emilio smiled as he said, "Have a good afternoon everyone. Malfoy." Then he led Hermione to their designated meeting room.
When they reached the room, Hermione was still reeling and hadn't said a word, but Emilio was full of chatter. He was going on about how superficial those people were and it figured Malfoy would be dating someone from that circle.
Hermione suddenly had an epiphany. The more Emilio talked, the clearer it became. Somehow Emilio had known Draco would be there and this was his way of catching him out without telling tales. Emilio must have heard she and Draco had become a couple and was getting his sweet revenge. Hermione was in public. She wouldn't fall apart now, she could fall apart later. Looking into Emilio's face Hermione asked what he was ordering for lunch. Emilio ordered something, but to this day Hermione couldn't tell what she ate or what was discussed. All she knew was she somehow ended up with the Ministry order in her hand.
When it was time to go, Emilio led Hermione back by Draco's Table. This time Draco stood and asked if he might have a word with her.
Hermione put a fake smile on her face and replied, "I've had my business meeting and one of us actually talking business during lunch is enough. I'll speak with you when you get back to DLM. Oh, that's my mistake, you are scheduled to be off on business this entire afternoon. I'll speak with you tomorrow. By the way Mr. Malfoy, turn on your mobile. Someone might need to reach you. Have a nice lunch."
Draco eyes met Emilio's eyes and he had come to the same conclusion as Hermione. Emilio had staged this entire event. He had somehow known Draco would be at Il Pasto today and probably for what reason. Draco looked as though he wanted to kill Emilio on the spot, but Emilio had one more barb to throw. "I hope to see you all tomorrow evening at the Parker's event. I'm going to try my best to talk the beautiful Miss Granger into attending with me. I'm sure we'll see you all there. Maybe you can make it part of your adventure Malfoy. Have a good afternoon."
Draco grabbed Emilio by the arm, and in a low voice Emilio snarled, "Get your hands off me now."
Draco remembered himself and removed his hand from Emilio's arm.
As Hermione and Emilio turned to go Draco remarked, "Well played Lozier. I'll see you again."
Emilio sniped, "I count on it," as he took Hermione's elbow to guide her out of the restaurant.
When they reached outside, Hermione feigned ignorance asking Emilio, "What was that all about? Are you and Malfoy still fighting each other?"
Emilio replied, "Malfoy is a poser, a bully and a cheat and I just don't like him. That's all. Will you need an escort back to your job?"
Hermione pecked Emilio on the cheek. "No thank you. I'll be fine. Thank you for lunch and the enlightenment. I'll hand your order in for processing as soon as I get back to DLM."
/*/
Hermione apparated back to DLM and kept her professional façade up for the rest of the day. When Carmela questioned if everything was alright, Hermione smiled and answered, "Perfect. Everything is just perfect," and hoped her sarcasm hadn't made it to Carmela's ears.