Previously on Making The First Move: Chapter 79

"Hahaha. What Severus Snape doesn't know won't hurt him, but I will be angry with myself if I wake up tomorrow with a bout of indigestion."

Hermione cleared the kitchen then headed to the telly room where she turned on the Decorator Channel thinking to get some muggle pointers on updating the spare room. Summoning her wand from the kitchen table, she then Summoned pen and paper.

Hermione made three or four notations before falling asleep with the pen and paper laying across her chest remaining that way until something or some noise woke her around 3:00 am. Her first thought was Sebbie had called out, but a glance into his room showed him sleeping soundly. After picking up the pen and notepad and turning off the telly, Hermione headed to the bedroom hoping she could fall asleep and stay asleep.

/*/

In Manchester, the Thursday evening presentations were over and the S & L team had separated to their rooms happy in the knowledge Noah had given a brilliant presentation but looking forward to a good night's sleep.

Noah, Ethan and Austin shared a three bedroom suite while Severus had a private room. Noah, Ethan and Austin, who were knackered fell asleep as soon as their heads hit the pillow. However, across the hall a freshly showered Severus was lying on his back thinking about his wife, their unborn child and his son. Turning on his side, Severus began drifting off to sleep mumbling about his family.

"The loves of my life."

The statement had barely left his mouth before Severus was deep in the land of slumber.

/

Making The First Move: Chapter 80

Belle Jordan had arrived home to plunk herself down on the couch, She was a bit weary. Not tired weary but weary weary. Even though Millie and Dani were firmly in her corner, she really didn't want to upset her son and nephew. Perhaps mingling and dating should be put aside. She was going to be a Nan after all. What wizard would be interested in a Nan? Letting out a loud, dispirited sigh, Belle headed to her bedroom. It was time for her to come back to earth and accept her place. No neighborly visits, mingling or meeting wizards for her.

Another loud sigh as Belle removed her coat. Pulling out her wand, she pointed it towards the kitchen. She hadn't had dinner and did have a grumbling stomach.

"Reheat meatloaf, gravy mashed; Plate it; Place on table."

Knowing how fast magic worked, Belle did a quick face wash and hurriedly changed into a nightdress. As quick as she thought she'd been, the piping hot plate of food was waiting on the kitchen table. Many things were going through Belle's mind as she once again raised her wand to set the kettle for tea. The kettle whistled at the same time she became aware of a pecking on the window.

"Finite kettle. Coming Owl."

Belle smiled at the addressee. Dani had just scrawled her name on the back of the envelope. "I imagine my daughter-in-law has more to say regarding the musings of a foolish, old witch."

Back in the kitchen Belle poured her tea before sitting down to see what Dani had to say. Halfway through the short missive Belle was grinning. The contents were somewhat of a surprise. There wasn't going to be any more interference. Randy had come around. And, as they had discussed, Dani would be accompanying her to the first few events with the first one as soon as tomorrow evening. Belle Accio'd her newly put together journal. Scanning the journal, Belle found the information she needed. For Friday 9/16, the Neighborly Visit would be in Chelsea at the home of a witch named Dora Washington. On Saturday evening, The Mix and Mingle would be held at the Witches of London Club in London Proper. After that, Belle decided she would see. If the first two events didn't turn out well, she might have to rethink her plan.

Going back to the journal, Belle read through her notes. One important note she had underlined: Both events called for proper dress. Belled smiled. She could do proper dress. The lists also offered a bit of information about most of the member witches. Dora Washington was a widow like herself as were most of the members. There were several witches who didn't have a status beside their name but that didn't bother Belle. Their business was their business.

Before tucking into dinner, Belle wrote a hasty acknowledgment back to Dani assuring her she'd be in touch before the event. With the Owl sent, and the food reheated once again, Belle tucked into her dinner with her mind mentally going over the items in her closet that could be considered proper attire.

/*/

Anthony really didn't care to discuss any of his private business which is what he thought SC Willis intended to do. He had been quite frank when filling out the Cursebreaker Application so everything was already down in black and white. He didn't feel the need to discuss anything more with anyone. However, when SC Willis invited him into his private quarters, private information was the last thing to be discussed.

"Have a seat Anthony."

"Thank you sir."

"I first want to apologize for embarrassing you in front of the team."

"No worries sir. I wouldn't have let it get that far. Michael, Terry, Andreas and I are a team, but there are things which should remain personal to the individual. I believe the entire team feels that way."

SC Willis nodded. "Of course. Now, to the reason I invited you here. As I said, I've read your file. As exuberant as you were about Harry Potter, I believe he would be as exuberant about you. Your credentials are outstanding. It is my opinion you would make an exemplary captain for the team. If you feel this is something you might like to try, I'll make it so."

This caught Anthony by surprise and he spoke without giving himself a minute to think. "Michael would probably make a better captain than myself. He was Harry's second in command for years."

SC Willis looked Anthony directly in the eyes. "As I have previously mentioned, I have read the files. If I thought Michael would make the better captain, he would be sitting where you are. It is not mandatory you accept this request but I need a good wizard to stand in for me and my choice is you."

Anthony nodded his understanding of the request but had more to say. "Although I don't know much more than any other member of the team, I thank you for the opportunity to lead. However, I will say if captain means being over the others, I decline. I'd like to learn my way before stepping up to lead. If the intention is to have me guide Terry, Michael and Andreas, I'd be glad to do it. Captain does have a nice ring to it. If the position is still available to me in say a month, I'll accept. For now, I'd like to get up to speed just like the rest."

SC Willis was smiling as he reached out to shake Anthony's hand believing this newly instated Cursebreaker was exactly what cursebreaking was all about, discipline, loyalty and strength. Anthony might not realize it at the moment but he had all the qualities of a Senior Cursebreaker and more. "Alright AG2. We'll revisit this conversation in a month. In the mean time, keep guiding the team."

The conversation was just about over. Anthony hadn't missed SC Willis calling him by his Cursebreaker identity. He replied in kind.

"Thank you SC Willis. I'll do that. In a month, you might find you have other candidates just as capable. Goodnight sir."

/*/

SC Albert Willis jotted down a few notes in Anthony's file sure he had made the right choice. Hopefully, by month's end, AG2 would realize it as well.

/*/

Papa David was still counting his blessings as he and Allen moved the last of his belongings into the house at Spinner's End. It had been a bit of a sticky situation to get to this place, but he was here now and that's what counted. All down to a few outspoken words from his beloved grandson. True it had been Hermione who had put a short word in his ear about taking over the property but it had been Sebbie who had gotten the ball rolling.

"That's the last of it David. I took the liberty of casting a few cleaning and scouring spells throughout your old flat. I also stopped off to get a takeaway plate for you. It's on the kitchen table."

"Thank you Allen. I wouldn't want to leave an untidy flat after the kindness Mr. Walsh has shown me over the years. Thank you for the dinner as well."

Allen looked around. Severus had spared no expense in doing the house over. "This is a lovely home David. Quite different from six years ago. The huge grounds are crying out for your care."

Glancing out the window, David smiled. Allen was quite correct. In his estimation, there was unlimited opportunity for him to raise all sorts of flora and fauna. "I look forward to raising some interesting plant life out there. I shall keep my eyes out for specialty specimens. I hope you will as well. Who know? I might find some plant which would be beneficial to S & L."

Allen grinned at his mentor. "That would be tip top David. Stranger things have happened. Off the top of my head, I can think of several plants that might well be raised as incremental ingredients to our stock."

"Great minds think alike Mr. Wilson."

"Yes they do Mr. Reese, but that is a discussion for another day. I imagine Valera has dinner waiting so I'll leave you to arrange your home. Neville hasn't Owled. I imagine our Friday and Saturday are still free days."

Clapping Allen on the back, David thanked him for his assistance before advising him it was only Thursday evening and he shouldn't set anything in stone. "We may not have heard from Neville yet, but I believe we will be hearing from him sometime Friday. There's no way he'll allow Severus to return to a disorderly shop. I say be prepared. In fact, I plan to use the leisure time on Friday to visit the docks. One never knows when some irresponsible importer will fail to turn up for a shipment." Waving his hand toward the back yard, David elaborated even more. "With the available space out back and around the side of my new home, I will be chuffed to find something to propagate here."

"Yes, there's that. Anyway, I'm going to get going. Enjoy your first full night in your new home. If you need assistance, Valera and I are free on Sunday. We'll be glad to pop over and help."

Giving Allen a direct stare, David laughed out loud. "You might be quite a bit younger than me Mr. Wilson, but I am still a wizard. I'll use my wand."

"Well, I guess that's me being told off." Allen replied with a chuckle. "With that smack down, I'll be leaving. I'll see you Monday or before. Goodnight."

"Goodnight Allen. Give my regards to Valera."

"Will do"

/*/

With a few points and twists of his wand, David placed curtains, placed his bathroom essentials, made up his bed and put down rugs which took all of fifteen minutes. Arranging the furniture could wait until after he had his meal.

Unwrapping the dinner plate, David was pleased to see a lovely bacon wrapped meatloaf dinner. Summoning a bottle of wine from one of the boxes in the middle of the living room, he tucked into dinner. As he sat there chewing his meatloaf, David smiled over Allen's remark. "Valera and I will be glad to pop over and help you arrange the house. As if. Although the thought is kind, I've been a wizard with a wand since before he was born."

Chewing the last bit on his plate, David chastised himself for talking to himself like some nutter.

"Like some nutter? I think not. I'm in my own kitchen in my own home. I'll converse with myself as much as I like. However, there is business to be done, I'll talk to myself later."

/**/

Friday morning, Severus was up and in the shower at his usual, early time thinking he would have breakfast sent up to his team's suite instead of going down to food services. Even though he knew Ethan and Austin were ready for their presentation, it wouldn't hurt to use breakfast time to discuss details. Giving two quick knocks before opening the door, to the suites, Severus was surprised to find all three of his Heads sitting around the large table having breakfast.

"Good morning Severus. Your breakfast is under a warming spell on that small table. We hope you like bacon with your eggs and toast."

Severus hid his smile. So much for waking up his team. "Thank you Mr. Gables. Bacon will do fine." He replied, taking the open spot at the table. "Presentations will begin at 10:00 am. We are scheduled for 10:30. I won't ask if you are ready Mr. White. Doubt is for naysayers which I am not. Although, I haven't received any update, if there are evening presentations scheduled, I will make the first of my two presentations tonight. If not, we'll proceed as planned with me presenting Saturday afternoon, Mr. Lively presenting Sunday morning and networking Sunday afternoon and evening. As discussed, we will close out our presentations as a team with everyone on the stage. I will inform you if the presentation schedule is adjusted. It is coming on 7:30 am. Feel free to start your networking early on the off chance there are other early risers. Make good use of the cards Mr. Gillis made up for you. You never know when some brilliant wizard looking to change positions will cross your path."

"Or witch." Offered Ethan.

Ethan's comment caught Severus a bit off guard. Giving his Head of Brewing a direct stare, he replied drolly. "Or witch."

Noah gave Ethan a clap on the back as he excused himself to the bathroom. "I'll be right back."

/*/

As the three headed out the door, Severus had the last word before putting his attention back on the cup of tea in his hand. "If you run into some brilliant, Brewing Specialist wizard….or witch, please make sure he or she gets a card."

Noah and Austin grinned at Ethan but held their comments until they were outside the suite.

/*/

As Severus sat there enjoying his tea as well as his little joke on Ethan, an envelope was pushed under the door. Lazily pointing his wand at the envelope, it came flying into his hand. It was another adjustment to the presentation schedule. His team would present at 10:30 am and 6:00 pm. Being as disciplined as he was, although these adjustments would possibly get them home sooner, Severus was annoyed that wizards who claimed to be professionals couldn't have had all this straightened out beforehand. With another quick bit of magic, Severus replicated the message leaving three copies on the table for his Heads.

"Simpletons." He growled while walking across the hall to his own suite.

/*/

Austin wouldn't let it show, but he was stressing. It was one thing to attend conferences and meetings with Ethan and Noah by his side but to participate in a meeting solo was another matter. All it would take was for one wizard or witch to recognize he was a Squib and all hell would break loose. Much like when that Mason fellow questioned his blood status and withdrew his application for employment at S & L. Noah and Ethan thought he didn't know, but he knew. James Mason didn't want to work with a Squib.

"Oi Austin. Your mind is a million miles away. Not worrying about your presentation, are you? You have everything down cold. You'll be fine." Ethan remarked giving his mate a nudge with his shoulder.

Noah, who was a bit more perceptive approached the conversation with care. "I know you're not worried about some arse commenting on your blood status. This a professional gathering with professional wizards and….witches."

Ethan broke out in a wide grin. "Ah! Our Head of Development has jokes."

Ignoring Ethan's comment, Noah turned to look Austin in the face. "Look mate. You are a brilliant researcher in any blood status. In addition, Severus Snape has judged you brilliant in spite of blood. If anyone has a problem with you, look them dead in the eye, tap the badge on your chest which reads S & L Brewers & Herbologists smile, then answer whatever question is on the table. Fuck the racists and the Hippogriffs they rode in on. You'll be fine."

Austin nodded and smiled as he tapped the badge affixed to his chest. "I guess I have my answer. It's coming up on 9:30. Presentations begin at 10:00. If we're late, Severus will have all our arses, especially yours Ethan, Mr…..witches."

The three Heads chuckled the entire lift ride.

/*/

Hermione had been totally on point when she surmised Papa David would Owl if he wanted extra time with Sebbie. Mid morning Friday an owl was pecking at Hermione's window.

Good morning Hermione.

As you know, I am free for the next two days. I am hoping that you will allow me extra time with Sebastian. As you also know, I'm in the process of moving into Spinner's End but do not let that deter you from approving extra time. I assure you almost everything is in place. With that in mind, I'm hoping you and Sebastian will come visit with me today. I have to step out for a few hours this morning but will be back home by 1:30. I'd love to visit with my two favorite people and show Sebastian my plans for the garden area as well. I think he'll be impressed with my new acquisitions. If you agree, I'll look for you around 2:00 pm. If time permits, perhaps you and Sebastian will share dinner with me. Let me know.

Affectionately,

David.

Hermione called out to Sebbie. "How would you like to visit and have dinner with your Papa? Papa David has sent an Owl. He wants us to see us."

"Oh yes mum. I want to have a visit with my Papa. I know he's happy to have a home of his own. I think he might want me to help with his garden."

Hermione grinned imagining she was raising a future Herbologist. "Alright love. I'll send Papa an Owl accepting his invitation. Why don't you have a few crackers while I send our answer to your papa."

Heading to the kitchen, Sebbie offered a surprising reply. "I'm so happy mum. Papa David never sees us on a working day. I hope daddy didn't…."

"Never you mind about grown wizards business. We'll concentrate on our visit. Please wash your hands before touching the crackers." She answered with a slight gasp.

Sebbie hastily changed the subject. "Yes mum. I always wash my hands."

/*/

While Sebbie washed his hands and had his crackers, Hermione sent a return Owl to Papa David.

Good morning David.

Thank you so much for thinking of us. It will be our pleasure to visit Spinner's End. Sebbie is very excited. He and I will see you at 2:00.

Be prepared to show your grandson your proposed garden.

Hermione.

As soon as the Owl was sent, Hermione began to put together their outfits for the day. It would be nice to visit the totally renovated Spinner's End.

/*/

Harry's team had gathered in his office to hear the news of the day. However, Harry was a bit unnerved because his most outspoken Auror was very quiet not even offering the slightest bit of Jordan nonsense. Harry quickly went over what his team needed to know then excused them to get on with their day. His Aurors filed out but as they did, Harry called out.

"A minute Randy."

Randy remained behind to see what his boss needed. "What's up Harry?"

"Take a seat."

Randy sat but appeared quite fidgety.

"What's going on Randy? You haven't been this quiet in a meeting since….well never."

Randy grinned. "Is this coming out of the mouth of a boss who frequently orders me to tone down my Jordan nonsense?"

"That may be but this time I'm serious. What's going on? Is Dani alright?"

Randy nodded. "Dani is fine. She's back to work."

Randy was a grown wizard. If he didn't want to disclose what was on his mind, Harry knew he couldn't force it out of him. "Alright Randy. We seem to be going around in circles. If you say everything is alright, I'll take your word for it. How was Kenny Haskell in the field? Is he a prospect?"

"Randy nodded. "Kenny was fine. His training has served him well. We did have a sort of a muck up today."

"I thought you said…."

Randy cut across Harry. "It wasn't regarding Kenny. Doria and Zeke made a miscalculation which has been set straight."

From there, Randy explained the situation.

To Randy's surprise his normally volatile boss took the mistake in stride. "Alright, a mistake is a mistake. You've set them straight. We move on from here. It goes without saying. I'd like to be informed if anything of that nature happens again. The last thing this team needs is a pair of dolts who can't assess a situation. If that's all, you can get on your way. I don't have anything for you so check the boxes."

Randy didn't move.

Harry looked up. "Still here? I won't coddle you Randy. If you have something to say, please say it or get on your way."

Randy let out a sigh. "I'll check the boxes. Have a good day boss."

Leaning back in his chair, Harry watched his normally chipper Auror walk down the hall with slumped shoulders. It had to be something personal because normal business never got Randy Jordan down.

Grumbling to himself, Harry thought how he didn't need nonsense from his Aurors because he got enough of that at home.

/*/

The morning portion of the presentations had gone very well. Ethan's presentation had been very well received. Severus was pleased with how both Noah and Ethan handled themselves while on stage but their stage presence was no more than he expected. They were S & L Heads after all.

It was almost 2:30. Severus had just left an informal gathering of business owners. He called it a gathering but it was actually a group of wealthy wizards who probably didn't know their arse from their elbow bragging about their shops. Although he had offered a few sentences here and there, it wasn't his nature to interact with braggarts and dolts so he had excused himself. Severus imagined his Heads were off networking or having lunch which he would do after a quick wash and a short message to Hermione and Sebastian.

/*/

Lee was discussing products with a customer when he felt a tug on his jacket. He turned around to find Verity holding an envelope.

"You have another message from Millicent."

Not wanting to discuss his personal business in front of a customer Lee took the envelope from Verity without responding to her comment. It was several more minutes before the customer chose two items. After thanking the customer for his purchases, Lee turned him over to Verity.

"Verity. Please ring up these purchases. I need to see to something in the back.

Verity rolled her eyes at Lee but replied in a very polite manner. "Alright Lee. Please step over here sir." She said before going into her customary spiel about finding everything and inviting him to come back soon.

Lee went to the lunch area to open Millie's second Owl of the day. His normally strong wife was fretting over not being able to accompany him and Leon on their trip to the zoo. They originally planned to have Dani or Mother sit Leisha while mum and dad took Leon to the Wales Zoo on Saturday. However, both Dani and Mother would be tied up with Witches of London events. She was turning herself inside out over not being able to find a suitable sitter.

Lee sighed as he unfolded the sheet of paper to read what Millie had written this time.

Hello again love:

I know I'm being a nuisance, but I think we should postpone the trip until next weekend. I'm sure Mother or Dani will be available then. What do you think?

Me

Lee didn't think much of the idea. He would be breaking a promise to Leon. Unacceptable. He answered Millie in nine words.

Postponing the trip is unacceptable. We will talk tonight.

Me.

/*/

Millie was bullshite when she read Lee's reply. She was trying to solve a problem and he was being an idiot. She ranted so loudly Leisha began to cry as Leon stood by wide eyed. Picking up her daughter, Millie gave her kisses all over her face until she calmed down. Leon turned to walk away but Millie pulled him into a hug.

"Mummy is sorry she was talking so loud. In fact, why don't we put on our jumpers and go for a walk? It's a lovely day and for once, it's not raining. Go get your jumper Leon. I'll get mine and Leisha's. We are going on an adventure."

Leon walked away with a smile on his little face. Leisha was smiling because her mum was giving her kisses.

/*/

By the time they had finished their walk, Millie had reasoned that the important thing was for Lee and Leon to have their bonding time. She would stay home with Leisha while Lee spent time with Leon at the zoo. Their would be other times to have a family outing. After getting Leon and Leisha settled down, Millie sent Lee her last Owl of the day.

Hello love:

After thinking it over, I realize there's no need to have a contentious conversation. I will stay home with Leisha while you and Leon have your time. We can have a family outing before the weather gets too cold. Sorry to have been such a bitch about it. Love you.

Mil.

/*/

Initially, Lee had been exasperated when Verity brought him another Owl from Millie. However, his attitude changed when he read the content. Millie had come around. Thank Merlin because he hadn't been looking forward to a night of dissension in the Jordan household.

Verity gave him a strange look when he returned to the floor with his Jordan persona turned up high.