Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 23
Sal watched as the bloom returned to Hermione's face and the worry lines seemed to disappear. It was good to see her laugh. "I'm not talking foolish. Draco often joked about how we were jealous because he saw you first. I'm fairly certain there's another wizard out there who thinks the very same way."
/*/
Sal and Hermione spoke for another thirty minutes before he told her it was getting late.
"It is late. If you'd like to stay, there is plenty of room."
Sal pulled a face. "Why you little minx." He joked. "Inviting me to stay over then? Am I to think our talk has led you to believe I'm your next wizard?"
Hermione guffawed. "You dirty minded prat. I was only thinking of your comfort."
"I know," answered Sal as he stood to hug Hermione. "I was just making a little joke. Thank you for the invite but I have to be back in Portugal by morning. Thank you for listening to my speech. Kiss Scorp for me. Now I have you on the right track, I don't think he'll see any more scowls from Uncle Sal. Be well Hermione."
/*/
Hermione poured herself one last wine. No matter what she and Scorp thought, shouting hadn't driven her husband away. She felt happier and lighter, but a bit restless. Perhaps tonight she would have a bath and manually release that bit of restlessness.
Using her wand to clear things away and turn off the lights, Hermione took the stairs two at a time.
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 24
After utilizing a bit of Emilio's breakfast materials, Matt sat down in the study to concentrate on his Malfoy Manifesto. So far, Matt hadn't run across anything new. It was all there. He was in charge. He had to make his position known. His only responsibility, for five years, had to be the Malfoy Companies. Matt paused his reading. So far, there hadn't been any mention from where he had to rule. Maybe it was implied, but it wasn't stated. Perhaps Kim could have her wish. He could be Head of all things Malfoy from Milan. Matt paused again. Why would he want to remain in Milan if he had to give up his position as Minister? He could rule with impunity from London as Draco had done.
That brought Matt back to Kim. She would not go quietly to London. He knew that. Then, as though a light bulb went off in his head, he had what he thought was a viable solution. Grabbing his mobile, Matt dialed up Theo Nott, Super Realtor. Theo answered on the second ring.
Hello Minister. How are things? What can I do for you?
Now that Matt had Theo on the line, he hoped he wouldn't come off sounding like some dolt.
Hello Theo. Things are fine. Thanks for asking. I have a question and a request.
Theo hesitated for a bit. A question for me? Alright, ask away.
This may be a bit premature, but if Kim and I relocate to London, could you make a spot for her in your offices?
Theo hesitated again, wondering where all this was coming from. A spot for Kim? Well, selling in England is a bit different from selling in Italy. Our products are vastly different.
Matt felt like he was pushing, but felt he didn't have a choice. He had to have something to offer Kim. As you know Theo, Kim is an experienced realtor who has her own offices here in Milan which she will be loath to give up. If she had a sure position, it would be easier for her to make the transition from here to there.
Is Kim looking for an immediate position? I mean like this week or next?
No Theo. Not that immediate. Perhaps in the next two weeks if everything goes to plan.
Alright then Matt. I believe I can take her on. She'll need to be trained up a bit, but that's a small thing. Since she's had her own shop, perhaps we can work on setting up special circumstances for her. Is Kim alright with this?
Therein lies the rub Theo. I haven't spoken to Kim yet. I was simply trying to suss out our options. I'll speak to her and get back to you.
Fine Matt. Let me know as quickly as you can. If I need to make a spot for Kim, I'd rather know sooner than later. Does this revolve around Malfoy business? I've heard you are set to take Draco's place as the Malfoy heir.
I'll get back to you as quickly as I can. And yes, it does revolve around Malfoy business. Thank you for your consideration Theo. It has taken a load off my mind. I'll speak to you soon.
Alright Matt. I'll wait for your call. Give Kim my regards.
The call had ended on a high note. Matt was chuffed. If this worked out, Kim wouldn't have anything to bitch about. In fact, if they kept their home, it would be possible for Kim to sell in Italy as well as England. Selling from both countries would be just the thing to keep Kim busy and her mind off his absences. What was not to like? Matt borrowed a quill and parchment to send a speed Owl to Kim. They had to talk.
/*/
Hermione and Scorp had had a good morning. They had gotten up early, eaten breakfast then walked down to the park so Scorp could swing. It was a tad bit chilly but Hermione had dressed herself and Scorp for the weather. Scorp was having a good time. Every time he came down the slide he would run over to Hermione to get his accolades.
"See me mum? See me? I'm getting so big."
Hermione gave her son a wide grin each time he brought his boastful little butt over to her. "Yes love. You are doing a good job. We'll be going soon. Do you want mum to push you on the swing?"
"Yes please. I sing now. Then we have lunch. I hungry."
It was almost 1:30. Hermione hadn't realized how long they'd been gone. Dusty, Embers and Crissy were probably standing at the doors wringing their hands. "Alright sweetie. Let's have a few swings then we'll go home to have lunch."
Hermione was pushing Scorp on the swing when her mobile rang. She checked the Caller-ID. Xavier Cross was calling. Xavier? Hermione let the call go to voicemail wondering what Xavier could want with her. After a few more pushes, she told Scorp it was time to get back home. Scorp, who was obviously hungry, was more than glad to get off the swing.
"Wow. I did a lot of things today mum. I'm very hungry."
Hermione gave him a big smile. "You certainly did. Let's go get you a nice lunch. How about some chips and a sandwich?"
"Yes tips." Scorp repeated. "I love tips. Come on mum. Hurry."
/*/
Hermione hadn't been far from wrong. Dusty and Crissy met them at the door.
Being a bit more partial to Dusty since she had explained Daddy Loves Me to Scorp, Hermione asked the elf to take Scorp to get washed up. To make things even, Hermione had Crissy fix the lunch.
Hermione took a few bites from her sandwich but found she really wasn't hungry. She was content to sit there watching Scorp eat. As she sat idly by, Hermione decided it was as good a time as any to return Xavier's call.
Hermione dialed back the number that had come up on the Caller-ID
One ring. Two Rings. Three rings.
Hermione didn't want to disturb the Head of Ministry Services so she disconnected the call thinking to call Xavier back later.
Scorp had finished all his lunch and his drink as well.
"My goodness love. You were very hungry. You haven't left a thing on your plate."
"Nope. All gone."
"Go do potty. I'll be upstairs as soon as I finish clearing up. We'll read your new book after we do your letters and numbers."
"No letters and numbers mum. I'm already smart."
Bringing her face down to Scorp's level, Hermione firmly told him that Louis was wrong. All little boys had to study to become smart.
"But I'm a Malfoy mum. I was born smart."
Hermione was more than annoyed with Louis' interfering. "Please do not contradict me Scorpius. Mum is telling you all children, including Malfoy children, must study. Go upstairs to potty then get your book and study kit. I'll be right there."
"But mum…"
"But nothing young man. Please do as you're told. Don't forget to have Crissy or Dusty wash your hands. Go now."
"Yes mum." Scorp replied sadly. "I'm going now."
"Thank you love. I'll be up soon."
/*/
Hermione cleared up in a matter of seconds but headed to the den to speak to Louis. Perhaps it was past time to send his arse back to Milan.
Keeping her composure, Hermione told Louis she would like a word.
"Good afternoon Hermione." Louis answered dully.
Hermione ignored the greeting. "My son is under the impression he doesn't have to study his numbers and letters anymore, because he is a Malfoy. It's true he is a Malfoy, but it is also true he needs to study. I could go back and forth with my child about what it means to be a Malfoy, but I won't. You will. I realize I told you Scorp would not be allowed any further visits with you. However, I'd like you to speak to Scorpius and clear this matter up once and for all since it was your words which have led him astray. I will bring him down after we go over his studies. I am trying to be fair and equitable Louis. I expect you to be the same."
Louis sighed. "My apologies to you Hermione. I have put my foot in it yet again. My Malfoy pride got the better of me. In my time, Malfoy parents weren't so much interested in teaching their sons numbers, letters and reading as they were in teaching them to cheat, lie and womanize."
Hermione smiled at Louis' outrageous statement. "I hope you won't be telling that to Scorp. He's a very smart, young, impressionable wizard who might take you at your word, again. I'd like Scorp to know you, so I will allow him to visit. Might I suggest you tell him nice stories about how Carmela and I found you, or how the family found Matt and Seth. Perhaps you might tell him about the family you've found and the friends you've made over the years with us. There are a ton of good things you can tell him. True things. Scorp is astute for his age. He might be able to tell you a few things as well."
Louis opened his eyes. "That's fair Hermione. Thank you."
"So we have an agreement. You will only tell him good, true things. He'll learn the rest as he grows older."
"Agreed. Have you sorted the funeral service photos? When you have time, I'd like to see the lot. Perhaps tonight after you put Scorpius down for the night."
"That's a reasonable request Louis, which I will gladly fulfill. Scorp will see you in a bit. I'm trusting you to do this right. Please don't let me down."
"I will not let either of you down. You have my word."
Hermione had only taken a few steps toward the door when Louis called her name.
"Yes Louis. What do you need?"
"I hope you won't think I'm interfering, but when Matt has some free time, I'd like to speak with him."
"I'll let Matt know. He and Emilio were actually here last night, so I probably won't see him for a while. They stopped by to see how Scorp and I were doing. Matt was in London to meet up with Gas and Emilio was in London interviewing at The Ministry of Magic. I'll leave Matt a message."
"It seems my family forgets me. Seth too if possible. I'd like to see my family."
Hermione understood. Even a portrait was allowed to fear for the safety of his family. "I'll see what can be arranged Louis. See you in a bit."
/*/
When Scorp learned he would be visiting Louis after his studies, he sped through the numbers and letters. "I did good mum, right? I see Louis now? He's funny mum."
Hermione had never thought of Louis as funny, but perhaps her son saw something she hadn't. "Yes love. You may now have a visit with Louis."
Scorp decided to take his mobile with him. Why, Hermione didn't know, but allowed it. Standing in front of the portrait, she casually reminded Louis of his promise then left Scorp to chat with his ancestor.
/*/
Hermione prepared herself a nice cup of tea while she waited for the visit to be over. She loved white tea. As she sipped, Hermione thought about the call she received from Xavier wondering if something might be wrong. Sitting there, cup in hand, Hermione decided to go directly to the source. If something was wrong, Carmela would know. She dialed her mum.
Carmela picked up after the second ring.
Hello love. I'm just finishing up the day. Let me call you when I get home.
Hermione laughed. Of course. This lady of leisure forgot that some people have to work.
Carmela chuckled. Call you back after I've settled myself at home.
Okay. I'll speak with you later.
/*/
Carmela sighed. She could have spoken to Hermione then and there, but she needed time to get her thoughts together. The Minister had visited earlier to make a private statement. A statement he wanted her to know but didn't want disclosed.
Hermione finished her tea. A smile crossed her face as she listened to Scorp chattering away to Louis. As foul as Louis could sometimes be, she hoped he would keep that type of shite away from her son, or, she would take measures.
/*/
Hermione was on her second cup of tea when Hannah came though. "Hello lovely. It's me come to find out why your brother is hesitant to stop by. What has he done, and in what manner shall we kill him?"
The two witches hugged each other before Hannah plopped herself down in a chair.
"Want tea?"
"No thanks love. I'm on my way to the Leaky. I just wanted to stop by to get the facts."
"Alright then. Your husband, my brother came through last evening to find Emilio sitting with me."
"Oh shite! I imagine he acted out."
"Actually he didn't. Matt was here as well. However, after they left, Harry told me I seemed to be very busy. I didn't like his tone and told him to stay out of my personal life because I would invite whomever I wished to come through my doors. He apologized, but I really didn't want to hear it. I've told him three times already to mind his business. He left. I pouted. That's the end of the story."
"I'm sorry Hermione. Your brother seems to think he's your father."
"No Hannah. I'm grown. Even my father wouldn't be as obnoxious as your husband."
"True, true. I'll have another talk with the git. Perhaps this time he'll listen. So besides my husband being a prat. What else is going on?"
"Strangest thing. Today when Scorp and I were at the park I got a call from Xavier Cross. I was busy with Scorp so I didn't answer, but I'm wondering what he wants. I called Carmela thinking she would know if anything was wrong. She was finishing up at work so we didn't have a chance to chat. She's going to call me back. If anyone knows what's going on, it will be mum."
Hannah caught herself. She was about to make a reply about what she thought she knew but decided against it. Hermione was grown. She'd figure it out.
"Alright love," she said getting up from the chair. "I'd better get to work. Tell Carmela hello for me. How come Scorp hasn't come to greet me?"
Hermione raised her eyebrows nodding towards the den. "Scorp is in with Louis. They are having a family chat. Stop by the den on your way out. I'm pretty sure Scorp has worn Louis out by now."
Hannah chuckled. "That little man definitely knows how to talk. I'll stop by tomorrow Hermione. Have a good night."
Hannah made a quick stop in the den to greet Louis and say hello to Scorp. A few minutes later she was on her way.
/*/
Hermione was sitting just relaxing when Scorp showed up by her chair. "Louis is tired mum. I want potty and my jamas."
"So you wore Louis out. I'm not surprised. I have dinner under a warming spell. How about some roast chicken with mashed and beans?"
"And duce. I love duce."
"Of course you may have juice, but only after you finish your food. Mum is waiting for Nana Mela to call. Let's have Dusty get you sorted. You and I will eat dinner together love and you can tell me all about your talk with Louis."
"Dusty." Scorp called out.
Pop. "Little master be calling Dusty?"
Hermione answered for him. "Please see that Scorp uses the potty then get him into his pajamas. I'll have his dinner on the table by the time you have him back down. After dinner, I'd like you to read from his new book."
"Yes Mrs. Hermione. I be doing all that."
Hermione kissed Scorp then got up to set their places.
Dusty had Scorp back down in record time. He and Hermione discussed his conversation with Louis, but Scorp didn't have much to share or much he wanted to share. Hermione hoped Scorp hadn't been in there talking about daddies again. Scorp again ate everything on his plate, including his vegetables, with only the slightest frown.
"Duce now mum."
"What a big boy. You've eaten everything. You may have your juice."
"Thank you mum. I take my duce upstairs? I won't spill."
"Yes love. Take your juice with you. I'll be upstairs after I talk to Mela."
"Okay."
/*/
Hermione had cleared away and was back in the living room chair with her head leaned back thinking about nothing when the mobile rang.
Hello mum. How was work today? You sounded a bit stressed when we spoke earlier.
Hello love. I was a bit stressed. There's just so much going on. I miss my Head. Anyway, what's going on?
I don't know mum that's why I called. Is everything alright there? Xavier called me today. I was with Scorp in the park so I didn't answer his call. When I tried to call him back, his mobile just rang and rang. I thought there might be a problem on your end.
Carmela paused for several seconds. Like Hannah, Carmela didn't want to share her thoughts on Xavier, especially since there were other things in play. Things she wouldn't mention to Hermione because she had made a promise.
Xavier called you? I'm sure I don't know why. Everything is fine. Perhaps he has something to tell you. Hold on. Let me check with Fausto.
Hermione tapped her fingernails on the table while she waited for Carmela to come back to the phone.
Nope. Fausto says everything is fine.
Even though she couldn't voice it out loud, Carmela was pulling for the Minister whom she knew had never lost interest. However, she realized Xavier was interested as well. These things weren't something she could control.
Okay. I guess I'll call Xavier back tomorrow. It can't be that important. Scorp and I look forward to seeing you and Fausto on Friday. We'll see you then.
Okay love. I'll see you then.
Hermione set her mobile down on the table wondering what Xavier could want with her.
/*/
Emilio had a lot on his mind. It seemed as though everyone wanted a piece of him. The prospect of not getting the job in London was weighing heavily on his mind. In addition, he was trying to figure out what was going on with Matt turning up at his house in the wee hours of the morning. What the fuck? Then Wallace had brought the weekly orders in for his signature and for some reason thoughts of what he'd done to Hermione began floating through his mind. Emilio couldn't deal with it.
Stopping by Wallace's desk, Emilio advised his Assistant he would be out of the office for the next several hours.
"Fine Minister. Everything is on point." Grinning, Wallace pointed out he had Emilio's mobile number if anything went awry, also adding that the phone was on full charge.
"Good to know Wallace," remarked Emilio as he headed out of the office. Whether it helped or hurt, there was something he had to do. Dialing his mobile, Emilio asked the person on the other end if she would make time to see him. Receiving a positive response, he apparated first to a takeaway shop then to SSE. He was going to ask advice from the one person he knew would not steer him wrong. He was about to plead his case.
/*/
The day was hectic, but when Carmela answered the phone and heard the Minister's request she had been more than glad to accommodate him. She suspected what he wanted to discuss, but would wait to see. Carmela wouldn't have given his request a second thought if Draco had still been alive, but he wasn't and she was becoming more and more partial to Minister Lozier. It wasn't as though she didn't appreciate Xavier, because she did. She'd just rather see Hermione with the wizard who had worshipped the ground she walked on since 2001 and before Draco. But what did she know? Hermione might not be able to see the Minister as anything more than a family friend.
Carmela had taken a lunch hour to speak with Emilio who had brought lunch with him. She didn't need to say much as she listened to the Minister lay himself bare. Even though Carmela knew his and Hermione's story by heart, it was still heart wrenching to hear it from the Minister's point of view. Emilio didn't downplay his part or his mistakes. He even went as far as agreeing he had brought it all down on himself with his jealousy. When he spoke of Draco, Emilio had gotten his point across without demeaning the dead.
Carmela had spoken softly and firmly when she finally found her voice. "I have the greatest respect for you and what you have shared Minister, but I would be remiss if I didn't offer you this caution. This is not the moment. Hermione is in flux. Even if you approached her right now with the truest, purest love imaginable, she would reject it because she is not over grieving. Give it some time before you approach her."
Emilio admitted he knew it was way too soon to approach Hermione, but also stated he did not want to be the one left looking on when some other wizard stepped in because he had hesitated. Hermione was his life witch. She was and always would be the love of his life.
Carmela favored Emilio but couldn't appear to take sides. As quiet as it was kept, she knew Xavier wanted to take up the position of protector for Hermione as well, and might not be so cautious.
All Carmela was willing to say was Emilio should stay his course. Whether it tipped her hand or not, she also advised him to see Hermione and Scorp socially whenever he could. "In fact, why don't you come through Sunday to have dinner with us. Hermione and Scorp will be there. Be a hero. Bring a dish. Dinner is at 6:00. Bring your A game Minister. If you feel it might be a bit uncomfortable, I'll invite Matt and Kim as well."
Emilio went back to the Ministry feeling a bit better than when he'd left. Wallace handed him a few messages commenting that all was well. Emilio answered with what Wallace thought to be a very cryptic remark.
"For the moment Wallace, it would seem so."
/*/
Back at his desk, Emilio took a few deep breaths. Whatever was destined to come would come. He'd taken a leap of faith thinking it would help bring him closer to Hermione. All he could do was hope it wouldn't backfire.
/*/
Xavier Cross had just returned from the field when he turned on his mobile to discover Hermione had returned his earlier call. Xavier sat down at his desk and ran his hands through his hair. "What was I thinking? Draco has only been gone for two weeks and here I am trying to make a statement."
One of the junior agents stepped into the office. "Talking to yourself Xavier? That's not a good sign. I have reports I'd like to discuss with you."
"No problem. Have a seat. Are we winning or losing?"
The agent slipped into a seat with a smile on his face. "We are Ministry Services X. We never lose."
Xavier nodded at the junior. "That is a fact. Show me what you have."
/*/
Xavier and his junior agent spent about an hour going over reports. When they finished, Xavier was pleased how everything had been handled. "Leave everything on Fausto's desk. He'll need to sign off on everything. Splendid job. Thank you. Please close the door on your way out."
Sitting behind the closed door of his office, Xavier fretted for a bit before forming a plan. Fausto had already mentioned that Hermione and her son would be spending the weekend in Milan. He would find a way to be at the Maidas even if it came down to showing up unannounced. Carmela would never turn him away from Sunday dinner. It might be a long shot, but he had to do something to make himself visible to Hermione.
/*/
Gas was chuffed. As much as he liked stepping up for Draco, he was super happy Matt would be taking over. He went over in his mind the things Matt had said. They would be getting a new level of support, something Draco didn't believe in. He'd never disputed Draco, but the fact was, an extra level of support would do everybody good. And the idea of ordering mobiles for the company was excellent. This old school shite was passé. Why Owl someone when you could ring them up on a phone? There were still a million things going on, but Gas was more than happy to handle them knowing it wouldn't be for much longer.
/*/
Kim received Matt's Owl while she was in the middle of a transaction. Excusing herself, she stepped out to respond to her husband answering with warm, loving words, agreeing they should talk. Knowing her husband, Kim was sure he'd forgiven her bitchy comments. The only thing she wondered was how to keep their conversation reasonable when she had no intention of giving up her life in Milan.
Finishing up her transaction, Kim hurried home to make herself as appealing as possible. Her initial thought was to appear naked in front of Matt, but decided against it in case things didn't go well. It wouldn't be pleasant getting a telling off while trying to be seductive. She'd gladly get naked, but only after she'd tested the waters.
/*/
Matt came through with a big smile on his face. "Hello love." He said kissing Kim on the lips. "Even though our morning started off poorly, I believe I have a solution to our problem. Shall we have dinner and a discussion?"
Although Kim didn't like the sound of Matt's declaration, she wanted to get their relationship back on the right track. She was determined to listen first then fight if necessary. "Alright love. Let's talk."
"Yes sweet one. Let's talk. I believe this is something you won't be able to resist."
Kim was more than sure any solution Matt had devised concerning moving to London would not meet with her approval. However, she would listen knowing her vile actions that morning could have ended in a completely different way. Ripping Matt's face had been such an infantile thing to do. Sometimes she wondered how he put up with her.
/*/
Hermione was still sitting in the living room chair mulling over her short conversation with Carmela when she heard Harry call out.
"Anyone home? It is your wayward brother come to visit now that his wife has told him to get his arse over here. I have left my opinions outside the door. May I come through?"
As angry as she sometimes got with her prat brother, Hermione didn't stay angry with Harry. She couldn't. He was the first and last vestiges of her childhood and what came after. Besides, he would not hesitate to pull out O Children when things got really tough.
"Come on through Harry, but be warned. I'll box your ears at the first wrong word."
"So I've heard." Harry replied guiltily, leaning in to kiss Hermione on the cheek. "Do I still have the authority to pour myself an Ogden's? Is Scorp down for the night?"
"Help yourself Harry, and yes. Scorp is down for the night. You can make yourself useful. Louis has asked to see the photos from Draco's services. They are on the desk in the study. Be a love and show them to him."
"Hermione. Love. I'd sooner you ask me to crawl across broken glass than deal with Louis at this time of night. He's had all day to think up Malfoy shite to spew."
Hermione let out a loud chuckle. "Mind yourself Potter, or Louis might hear you. The den is not all that far away. Besides, he's been on his best behavior. Get it done git while I run upstairs to check on Scorp."
"Fine." Huffed Harry. "But I'm taking my Ogden's with me. I'll never understand how I can let a portrait get so far up my nose, but then I think of Snape. Go see about our boy. Give him a hug for me. I'll get the photos."
"Thank you. I suggest you do it with a smile, or you will definitely hear Louis spew some Malfoy shite. Be back in a minute."
/*/
Initially, Harry was met with a grunt from Louis, however, the portrait became much more malleable when he found out Harry had come with photos. Louis' only trifling comment had been to ask if Hermione was too busy to bother.
Harry overlooked the comment and did as asked. There were plenty of photos, so Louis let go of his temper to concentrate on his deceased descendant. The entire viewing had taken less than twenty minutes during which Harry kept surreptitiously refilling his glass. It all turned out well with a happy Louis and a slightly tipsy Harry.
"Thank you Harry." Louis remarked as Harry gathered the photos before leaving the den. "Draco was a force to be reckoned with, as I hope Scorpius will be."
The comment made Harry a bit emotional, and he responded with an emotional comment. "You're welcome Louis. Draco was a force and I know Scorp will be as well. Goodnight."
/*/
Hermione noticed Harry's reluctance to meet her eyes, so she remained silent as he passed by to return the photos to the study. Emotional things between wizards.
Harry had composed himself by the time he returned to the living room. He and Hermione chatted for another thirty minutes before he left for home without him once referring to suitors which might or might not come into her life.