Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 36
I hope Harry remembered his manners.
He did. Actually, Scorp helped Harry remember by reminded him you said he shouldn't make me cry. It was awkward.
Haha. Scorp is little, but he's a wizard after my own heart. Protect mum at all costs and at all times. I miss you.
How can you miss me when you've just left me?
That was hours ago. I believe I'm smitten and when one is smitten, time means nothing.
You are quite the comedian Mr. Lozier. However, I'm very pleased you miss me. If you have time, call me tomorrow evening and I'll tell you all about my conversation with Theo. Right now though, I'm headed to bed. Some wizard liberally used his very fine wand on me and I need to rest up.
Hahaha. The wizard with the very fine wand will allow you that. He hopes you'll be quite rested by Thursday. Go have your rest. I'll speak to you tomorrow.
Goodnight Emilio.
Goodnight love.
/*/
Hermione locked the floo, the doors and turned out the downstairs lights before heading upstairs.
"Ah bed. Here I come."
Soon, the entire house was quiet except for the soft, sleep noises emanating from Scorp's room.
/
A/N: Warning: Violent Attack included in this chapter.
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 37
/**/
The Monday morning meeting at Malfoy Companies Nicosia had gone very well. The attendees were quite impressed with the four British gentlemen. None of the four bothered to explain that everyone except Nicholas was either Italian or Belgian. It didn't matter. The point was to be understood, and they had been. Top management was pleased with the introductory meeting and were eager to get to the afternoon session which would be fielded by Emilio and Nicholas.
/*/
Matt, Emilio, Gas and Nicholas wanted to relax between meetings, but that wasn't to be the case. Two top managers appeared at the door asking for a bit of time. Matt had immediately invited them in.
"Please come in gentlemen. What can we do for you?"
One manager spoke for both. "We want to thank you for taking the time to come so far to assist us. We know there'll be an afternoon meeting to discuss important things. However, since we are completely onboard with your direction we'd like to discuss money."
Emilio and Gas looked on in surprise as Matt replied.
"I'm not sure we should be discussing money until you've heard the rest."
"We will definitely hear the rest, but the Heads have determined whatever money is needed to take us up a level is readily available. We recognize this opportunity, and do not want to miss out. The one caveat we have is one of your company work directly with us for the next few months.
Gas who had a baby on the way squirmed a bit in his chair.
Emilio who had just got with his life witch shuffled his feet.
Neither wizard should have doubted their CEO. "While I recognize your need to have one of our top management here with you in Cyprus, it is my thought that you send two or more of your most trusted advisors to London to learn from the bottom up. We have several wizards who will be completely dedicated to your company. Send as many advisors as you like. Malfoy Conglomerate will be their beck and call."
The two Malfoy at Nicosia managers glanced at each other. This open invitation was more than they could have hoped for. "Thank you so much for your invitation. If you'll excuse us, we'd like to discuss it and have a response before our next meeting. Thank you."
Speaking in a low tone, both Emilio and Gas thanked Matt for being so quick on his feet. Neither wizard wanted to be away from London for months at a time.
"How could you doubt me? That's why I get the big bucks men. Additionally, it seems like the best way to me as I'm sure neither of you have any intention of being away from Britain for months at a time. Anyway, if they don't accept our invitation, there's nothing holding me in London. I'll go home, tidy up then come back for however long it takes."
Emilio shook his head. "As important as things are in my life right now, if they don't accept the invitation, I believe we can work something out. Perhaps Gas and I along with Nicholas can each take a week or weekends to relieve you. We won't leave you on your own. You are CEO after all."
"Thanks cousin. I won't say no to a bit of assistance. I'm really hoping it won't come to that. Those fellows seemed mighty chuffed to be invited to our country. Let's just wait to see how things fall. Meanwhile, I'm starved. Let's order some beef and lamb soulvaki."
"I'll settle for some Beef Wellington." Gas answered with a laugh. "Skewers make me nervous."
Nicholas smiled, but was smart enough to remain silent.
Emilio laughed after adding his two Knuts worth. "I'm with Gas. I'd rather not be skewered for lunch."
Although Matt laughed along with his COO and CFO, his response was serious. "You'll eat what is available and smile while doing it. We won't be disrespecting anyone, especially when it's just the four of us against a country."
"Am I hearing a bit of a tremble in your voice Matt?" Gas asked jokingly. "Please don't make me run for a portkey"
"The four had a good laugh. As the laughs were tapering off, the wizards looked up to see trays of food being guided to the table in front of them.
"Ah," said Matt. "Beef, pork and lamb soulvaki. Just what we wanted. Dig in men."
Emilio and Gas gingerly placed a few of each on their plates. Nicholas just tucked in. It was time to eat.
/*/
Scorp was up and in the bathroom very early. His mum was still sleeping as he used the big toilet then stood on his baby chair to reach the sink. He was a big boy and could do things by himself. Before he began to wash his hands and face, Scorp realized his underwear felt wrong. Stepping down from the chair, Scorp began to sob. Dusty and Crissy were immediately at his side.
Noticing Scorp's soiled underwear, both elves tried to soothe their boy.
"You a big boy master Scorp. No need to cry over a little mistake. Me and Dusty going to fix you up real good. Next time you call us if you need help."
"I'm trying to be a good, big boy for mum and Emeelio. I don't want poop in my pants."
Crissy sucked her teeth. "We not going to tell nobody, but we your help. You are our responsibility. Next time call me to help."
"Or me," added Dusty. " We not going to let you walk around with poop pants. Stop crying before Mrs. Hermione hears you."
By the time Crissy and Dusty had Scorp settled, Hermione appeared at the bathroom door questioning what was going on.
Giving Scorp a sloppy kiss, Hermione greeted her son. "Good morning big boy."
"Good morning mum."
Crissy answered her mistress. "Nothing going on Mrs. Hermione. Your big boy was getting himself washed and dressed. We was helping."
"Lovely. If he's finished, take him down to the kitchen and fix him some cold cereal with banana and toast. I'll be down as soon as I get showered and dressed."
Grabbing Scorp, Crissy and Dusty nodded in confirmation.
/*/
After a soothing shower, Hermione dressed and went downstairs where Scorp was enjoying his breakfast. It was 10:30 which meant it was already 12:30 in Cyprus. Emilio must already be in the first of his meetings. Pouring herself a breakfast tea, Hermione sat and watched her son eat. He was growing so fast.
"Mum has some work to do today. I have a meeting this morning, but after, what do you think about accompanying me to The Ministry?"
"Will I get a wand at the Ministry mum? I want a wand."
Hermione reached over to pat Scorp on the hand. "No. Have you forgotten? Wands aren't given out at The Ministry. Wands are given out by Mr. Ollivander to eleven year old wizards. We'll be going to The Ministry for an entirely different purpose. We'll be going to do a bit of research."
"Okay mum. Okay. I didn't forget. I was just hoping. We'll do research."
Hermione smiled at her boy, I know you don't forget anything, son."
As they sat talking, the doorbell rang. "That will be Mr. Nott. Finish your breakfast Scorp then have Dusty or Crissy help you with your letters and numbers."
/*/
Hermione wasn't all the way out of her chair when Embers came through leading Theo Nott.
"Right on time Theo. Good morning."
"Good morning Hermione. How are you getting on? I hope this isn't too early for you."
"I'm getting along fine Theo. Nonsense about the time. If it was too early, I would have put you off until later. Your request intrigued me. Let's talk in the study. Can I get you some tea?"
"No tea for me Hermione. The faster I lay out my thoughts, the faster you'll be rid of me."
Hermione smiled at her guest. "Not expecting a positive reply then Mr. Nott. Let me hear your proposal."
Theo pulled out his documentation. "I'm interested in purchasing Malfoy Manor. Before you chuck me out, let me explain. It is my understanding that you offered the manor to Matt and his wife. An offer that was declined. Since you were quick to offer it to out, I'm hoping you'll listen to my proposition."
Bringing the tea cup to her lips, Hermione gestured for Theo to go on.
Theo laid out the documents and his projections for a three and four family compound. While Hermione was viewing the material, Theo looked around. Intricate and fancy. So Malfoy. Then he glanced back at Hermione and wondered if she would like to make something more Granger for her and her son.
"So, Mrs. Malfoy. What do you think? Do you see a mini manor in your future?"
Hermione caught and held Theo's gaze. "Malfoy Manor means nothing to me. That was Draco's family home, not mine. However, Scorp is a Malfoy. Perhaps I should just let it sit there until he comes of age and decides what he wants to do with it. On the other hand, Draco's dead, I'm alive. I get last say in what my child does and does not do right now. I like your plan. Of the two options, I'd choose a four family compound as long as Scorp and I get first choice. In addition, it won't be a Malfoy compound, so it won't be named Malfoy anything. If I sound harsh, I don't mean it that way, but my goal for Scorp and I is to move forward not stand in place."
Theo was caught off guard by the ferocity in Hermione's tone. He knew Draco loved her and their son, and they would have been together for life, but Draco was gone. Hermione deserved to have a good life. "I understand Hermione. If this works out, I'll see to it that all Malfoy belongings are protected and stored safely away for Scorp. He may do with them what he pleases when he comes of age."
"Good. You may now go back to your office and put together the plan exactly as we discussed and the very large number of Galleons you will be paying me Mr. Nott. Then we'll have another discussion."
Theo stood to give Hermione a hug. Suddenly there was loud pounding at the front door that made both he and Hermione jump. "Who's pounding on your door like that?"
"I don't know Theo, but I'm about to find out. Accio wand."
/*/
Hermione's wand wasn't in her hand good before the front door banged open and Kim came storming through like a hurricane screaming about her husband. Although Kim was screaming like a wounded banshee, Hermione lowered her wand when she saw who it was. Then she ordered Embers and Dusty who had come running back to their duties.
When Hermione turned to speak to Embers and Dusty, Kim screamed how Hermione was a filthy bitch for fucking her husband then threw a curse which just missed Hermione. The fact the spell missed her target enraged Kim even more, and she ran at Hermione driving her wand into Hermione's chest.
When Hermione hit the floor, Theo who had been standing there dumbfounded drew his wand but not before Embers came at a run waving his hand freezing Kim in place. Theo was trying to help Hermione when Scorp came running down the stairs sobbing as though his heart would break.
"MUM! MUM! Please don't get sick and leave me. MUM. I want Emeelio."
Theo didn't have a chance to wonder about Scorp asking for Emilio Lozier. The place was bedlam with blood streaming out of Hermione's chest.
Dusty tried to grab a still sobbing Scorp, but he pulled away and laid himself across Hermione.
In the few seconds Dusty was trying to deal with Scorp, Theo sent two Patronuses, one to Harry Potter and the other to St Mungo's Emergency Medi-Wizards then tried to stem the blood flowing from Hermione's chest.
Harry and two of his Aurors were two minutes ahead of the Medi-Wizards. In those two minutes, Harry ordered Dusty to release the spell on Kim as he himself bound her with a wave of his wand. Harry checked on Hermione, then yelled at Theo trying to find out what happened. Michael Corner took custody of Kim while Randy Jordan stood waiting to accompany the witness.
Hermione who could barely catch her breath was groaning and still bleeding profusely while trying to calm Scorp. To add to the bedlam, Hannah came rushing through the front door full out crying. She screamed when she saw all the blood on Hermione and pulled Scorp away so the Medi-Wizards could get her ready for transport. After checking Scorp over to make sure he wasn't injured, Hannah went for Kim.
"You bloody piece of shit. You filthy, nasty, cunt of a witch. How dare you? You've been jealous of Hermione from day one, but you know what…."
Harry pulled Hannah into his arms whispering she was scaring Scorp even more. Hannah grabbed up her boy and told Harry she would be at St Mungo's.
/*/
Harry turned to Theo who was still in shock over what he'd just witnessed. "What in Merlin's name happened and why didn't you stop it before Hermione got hurt?"
Theo bristled. "If you think I purposely stood here and let Hermione…."
Harry cut across him. "Save the attitude Theo. I've got to get to St Mungo's to see about Hermione. I'll need you to accompany Randy to my office to get your explanation down in a report."
"Take a breath Potter because you are about to be overstepping your authority. I'm a witness, not a suspect. I know my way to the Auror Department. I'll see you there Randy."
/*/
Matt, Emilio, Gas and Nicholas were proud of themselves. They had done such a splendid job in the one meeting that the owners and heads of Malfoy Company at Nicosia were ready to sign a contract which would upgrade their company to a mid tier company with the gist of it being one head and one manager would come to London to train.
The four wizards agreed to spend a couple of hours touring Nicosia before closing out their stay. Emilio and Gas were glad for the excursion time due to the fact they needed to buy souvenirs for their loved ones. It all worked out well as Emilio found a lovely jumper for Hermione and a toy mobile with a screen for Scorp. Gas purchased several baby items and a gaudy gilded comb for Seana.
"Seana will never lose that comb," joked Emilio. "I think it will be seen from London all the way to Ireland."
""Hahaha Mr. COO. That's the point."
"I guess the way our visit has turned out has put my number one men in a good mood."
Nicholas interjected. "I may not be a number one, but this visit has definitely put me in a good mood."
"Good man. Now if my COO and CFO have had their fill of touring and shopping, I feel we should be getting back to the hotel to review our closing notes. Just think. We'll be back in London almost two days early. I imagine it will be a nice surprise for some."
Emilio gave Matt a direct stare but did not respond.
"I, for one, am supremely chuffed to be getting back early. I'm sure my little belly misses me." Gas added with a chuckle.
Not being privy to the fact Gas' wife was almost five months along in pregnancy, Nicholas didn't get the joke, but Emilio and Matt laughed out loud.
They were still laughing and joking when Matt's mobile rang. Gesturing for the other three to go on ahead, Matt took the call showing Harry Potter on the caller-id.
Hello Harry. How are you? I hope this isn't anything important because I'm in Cyprus at the moment.
I realize that Matt. I'm calling to inform you that your wife is being detained….
Being detained? What is going on there Harry?
Kim attacked Hermione with a wand in her own home. Hermione is in St Mungo's and Kim is in a holding cell. I'm not sure what the fuck is wrong with your wife, but she is carrying on about some affair she thinks you and Hermione are having. I don't know what's going on between you and Hermione, but I'm going to find out. I hope none of it is true.
Harry explained the whole of it to Matt, and all Matt could do was sputter as he tried to make sense of what Harry was telling him.
For fucks sake Harry. Of course it's not true. Kim has been irrational lately. Sweet Merlin! How is Hermione? Is Scorp all right?
She's more than irrational Matt. Your wife attacked Hermione in front of Scorp and Theo. She's certifiable.
Emilio who had only taken several steps away came rushing over when he heard Matt mention Hermione and Scorp. "What's going on Matt?"
Matt held up one finger.
"Fuck holding up a finger," growled Emilio. "What's happening?"
We are stuck here in Cyprus for several more hours Harry. Emilio, Gas, Nicholas and I had planned to take morning portkeys back to London, but in the light of things, we'll catch a portkey this evening. Thank you for being there for Hermione and Scorp.
Harry snarled through the mobile.
Of course I'm here for Hermione and Scorp. Where in bloody hell else would I be? I just called to inform you what is going on. When you're back in London, you may ring me, or, stop by the holding area to see Kim. Your choice.
Then Harry disconnected before Matt could say another word.
/*/
"Let's get back to the company. We'll need to tidy up as quickly as possible. There's been an accident. Emilio and I have to get back to London. If you don't mind Gas, I'll leave you and Nicholas to get the two guests sorted and back to London. Arrange for suites at The Luxe to be paid for by Malfoy Conglomerate."
"What sort of accident Matt?" Asked Gas, grabbing Matt by the arm "Is my family alright?"
"Seana and Mrs. Finnigan are fine Gas. It's Hermione who has had an accident."
"I hope it's nothing serious." Gas declared.
With his heart trying to beat itself out of his chest, it was Emilio's turn to inquire. "What kind of accident? Is Hermione alright? Was Scorp hurt? Why did Harry call you?"
Matt ignored Matt to instruct Gas and Nicholas. When Gas and Nicholas were on their way back to the company, Matt filled Emilio in on everything he'd been told.
For several seconds, Emilio stood there dumbfounded. "Kim? Kim attacked Hermione? How is that possible? Hermione can do a dance around Kim with a wand. You must have misunderstood."
"I didn't misunderstand Emilio. Kim didn't hex Hermione. She ran her through with her wand. Hermione is in St Mungo's. Harry has everything under control and Hannah has Scorp."
"I've had enough of that despicable bitch." Emilio shouted. "She may be your wife Matt, but I'm going to have her arse…."
Looking around them, Matt put a hand on Emilio' shoulder. "Please remember we're in public cousin. I realize you are upset, but this isn't the place. Remain calm. We'll get to London as quickly as possible. In the mean time, as I said, Harry and Hannah have everything under control.
"I apologize for my tone and volume. I'm thankful Harry and Hannah are there, and I'm trying my best to remain professional Matt, but I need to see about Hermione and Scorp."
"Let's finish up and see to them then."
/*/
Harry had tried to question Kim, but hadn't gotten very far. Although she had calmed down a bit, Kim was far from rational blaming her state and the collapse of her marriage on Hermione spreading her legs for Matt.
Harry was more than puzzled knowing Hermione and Emilio were seeing each other. As much as he tried, Harry couldn't get much more from the agitated witch except she hadn't expected to best Hermione in a duel so she had added a little something to the wand tip. That statement had worried Harry. What could Kim have done to the wand tip that could hurt Hermione any more than she had? Harry had ended the questioning and hurried back to St Mungo's.
/*/
The Healers at St Mungo's were ready for Harry's questions, but didn't have any answers. There had been some type of poison or acidic substance on the tip of Kim's wand which was impacting Hermione's recovery.
Harry stopped by Hermione's room. Although Hermione was conscious, she was in a lot of pain. Harry recognized his sister was tough and trying very hard not to broadcast her fear and pain.
"I think she's killed me Harry. I won't see my son grow up and he'll never have a father to help him along. If it comes down to it Harry, I'll need you, Hannah and mum to help Scorp. He'll need you all. All this because of a jealous shrew. I've never had any intimate dealings with Matt. Never. Kim is insane."
Harry reached over to hold Hermione's hand. She was burning up. "Stop talking Hermione. Rest yourself. You'll be up and out of here in no time. Emilio and Matt are returning to London this evening. Don't worry. Just concentrate on getting healed. You are very hot. I'm going to speak to these bloody healers. I'll be right back."
/*/
Many thing were coursing through Hermione's mind. She didn't want it to show, but she was panicking. She was frightened knowing it was more than just a run through with a wand. Kim had tried to kill her. Unfortunately, it seemed as though she had succeeded. Hermione's entire chest felt like it was on fire. The blood flowing through her veins felt like gravel stones. Scorp had been so upset. She'd never heard him scream like that before. If she did survive, there wouldn't be witch or wizard who would be able to stop her from giving Kim her due. She'd miss a life with Emilio. Perhaps, the gods had decided she shouldn't have a permanent love. Perhaps….
/*/
Harry was back. "The Healers will be right in. Fortunately there is one brilliant one among them. When I related that you were burning up, she went to the stores and pulled out nothing other than a Bezoar."
Hermione tried to smile remembering how a simple Bezoar had saved Ron's life, but her chest hurt too badly.
Harry didn't get out much more of an explanation as the Healer came rushing in with the Bezoar in gloved hands. Directing a Medi-Wizard to lift Hermione's head, she just about shoved the Bezoar down Hermione's throat. Harry worried for a bit because Hermione wasn't recovering nearly as quickly as Ron had. For an hour, Harry sat there touching Hermione to feel if the fever had broken. When he reached over the last time, Hermione spoke.
"Stop touching me Harry, or, the next thing I know Hannah will be here trying to hex me dead."
"Ah! Back to your own foul self I see," laughed Harry. "It's about time. Now they can throw a bit of Dittany on that ugly, festering hole in your chest and get on with it."
Hermione laughed but ended up choking. "Fuck you Potter. I've been through worse. Where's my son? Where's Scorp?"
"Calm down Hermione. You are still recovering. Scorp is with Hannah. I don't know which of them is more upset. I'll get him here as soon as the Healer gives the okay. I called Matt. He, and I imagine Emilio will be back in London this evening."
Hermione didn't respond.
Harry spoke softly. "Don't let my bad behavior come between us Hermione. If you and Emilio want to be together….."
"Stop talking Harry. We've been over this already. You were and are my first true friend, but I don't need your absolution for anything I do. Just let it rest. All this must have been a surprise for Theo. One minute we're standing there talking business. The next, a wild witch comes charging through my front door. Oh! I'm fairly certain Louis heard everything. Please let him know I'm alright."
Harry sighed. "Merlin Hermione. You'll be alright if you stop talking for one minute. I have to leave. I'll notify Louis, and send Hannah over."
"And Scorp."
"Yes love, and Scorp. Get some rest."
/*/
The Healer returned to the room to check Hermione's wound, telling her she was being kept overnight. Hermione tried to puff up, but the Healer paid no attention except to say it was the Head Healer's orders. Hermione just sighed and leaned back into the pillow.
/*/
Matt and Emilio spoke to the owners and Heads of Malfoy Nicosia before hurrying to their port keys. Gas and Nicholas along with two visitors would be taking morning port keys.
When they landed in London, Emilio made a quick stop at The Luxe before heading to St Mungo's. Matt called Harry to let him know he was back in London, promising to meet him at the holding cells. Before Apparating to the ministry holding cells, Matt called Blaise who didn't pick up. Leaving a message, Matt requested an appointment as quickly a possible.
Emilio walked into Hermione's room expecting the worse, but found Hermione elevated on a pillow speaking to Hannah and Theo. Scorp came at him at a run.
Emilio greeted Hannah and shook hands with Theo.
"Emeelio. Mum is hurt. I was crying."
Picking Scorp up, Emilio gazed at his witch.
"Hello there Mr. Lozier. It's really worse than it looks Emilio."
Glancing from Hannah to Theo then back to Hermione, Emilio cleared his throat. "I'm not sure I'd agree with that. The dressing across your chest looks awfully nasty to me. How are you feeling?"
Theo was lost, not understanding why Emilio Lozier was there in the first place. He and Hermione had finished their business so he rose to leave. "I'll have everything ready for signature when you're ready Hermione. Nice to see you Hannah. You too Emilio, Bye Scorp."
As he headed to the lifts, Theo suddenly realized why Emilio had appeared. He was sniffing around Hermione. Waiting for the lift, Theo checked himself. Sniffing around? Draco was dead. He'd killed himself. There wasn't anything wrong with Emilio wanting to be with the witch he'd had before Draco stepped into the picture. No one spoke about that time anymore, but just about everyone knew what had gone down. Draco had stepped into another wizard's relationship. Hermione was a phenomenal witch who deserved a good wizard. Stepping into the lift, Theo shrugged. "Good luck to them."
/*/
It was killing Emilio not to be able to comfort Hermione, but the rules were the rules. Until they disclosed…..
After a bit more conversation, Hannah peeled Scorp off Emilio. "Scorp and I will be back tomorrow to see you home."
"I want to stay with mum and Emeelio," whined Scorp, glancing from Hermione to Emilio.
"You have to go with Aunty Hannah to have dinner. I'll be home tomorrow, but tonight, you'll stay with Aunty Hannah and Uncle Harry."
Scorp directed his gaze at Emilio once again. "Uncle Harry will make me cry."
Hannah's hand flew up to her mouth.
Hermione let out a noise which sounded somewhere between a chuckle and a groan. "No he won't. Uncle Harry promised to be good. I need you to be a big boy for me."
Emilio also reassured Scorp he'd be back with his mum. "Your mum is strong. The Healers are sure to let her home tomorrow. We'll all have dinner together. I'll cook."
"Yay! Okay. I'm going with Aunty Hannah mum. I'll be a good boy. Can we have eggs?"
"You may absolutely have eggs. Give me a kiss and say goodnight to Emilio. I'll see you in the morning."
"Goodnight mum. Goodnight Emeelio."
Hannah waved goodbye as she led Scorp out the door.
/*/
After Hannah and Scorp left, Emilio immediately went into a tirade about Kim, about how she could have killed Hermione and what he intended to do to the trifling witch when he saw her.
Hermione calmed him down simply by telling him she hadn't received her kiss allotment.
"I'd like to give you more than a kiss allotment, but that wouldn't be good."
Emilio sat on the side of the bed and had leaned in to kiss Hermione. Their lips met in a searing kiss which caused Hermione to lose her breath for a second.
"It's definitely not my intention to kill you. I'll save the rest of our kisses for tomorrow. Can I get you anything?"
"No love. Just sit with me."
"Will you allow me to touch something, with my mouth?"
Hermione let out a giggle which turned into a cough. "Be nice Lozier or you will kill me."
Emilio was about to answer when the door opened . Carmela rushed in.
"Hello my love. Hannah called me crying, screaming that Kim attacked you. What the hell? I'm sorry it took me so long to get here. Hello Emilio. How are you? I thought you were in Cyprus, but I'm glad you're here taking care of our girl. When I get my hands on Kim, I'll give her a touch of what I gave that crone. She'll be knocked out for days."
Hermione smiled at Emilio. "Please slow down mum. Harry has everything in hand. The Healer feels I'll be able to go home tomorrow. As for Kim, that witch is mad. She thinks I've been having sexual relations with Matt. What an arse."
A slight blush crossed Emilio's nose. Even if it was his cousin, he didn't want to hear anything about Hermione being intimate with anyone. "She's barking. This isn't the first time Kim has accused Matt of being more than a friend to Hermione. She's a miserable, deceitful excuse for a witch."
"Emilio." Hermione whispered softly. "It will all be alright. Go get yourself sorted. I'm fine for now. You promised Scorp dinner love. You'd better get your menu in order."
Emilio laughed as he left a peck on Hermione's lips. "And, you can tell me how your discussion with Theo turned out. Good evening love. Good evening Carmela. Thanks for coming to see about our girl. Will you be alright stepping back through your creepy floo?"
Carmela let out a loud laugh. "A wizard who knows what's what. Thank you for inquiring Emilio. I'll be fine."
"Alright ladies. Have someone ring me if you need anything Hermione. I'll speak to you tomorrow."
"So much for being horny." Carmela whispered after Emilio left. You'll kill yourself if you try to shag."
"Please mum. Don't make me laugh."
"Of course you're right. I'm sorry. Fausto was livid. He wanted to drop everything to come to London, but I stopped him. There's nothing he can do here except inflame the situation. Kim has been jealous of you for ages. What happened? Why would she choose now to attack you?"
Hermione could guess why Kim had chosen now to lash out, but it was personal and painful for Matt. It wasn't something she cared to share. "The witch is barking and always has been."
Carmela nodded. "Now that I've seen you with my own two eyes and have judged you certain to live, I'm going to get back to Milan. You know Fausto and Xavier will want a full report.
Hermione gave Carmela the stink eye. "Thank you for coming to see about me. Be careful in the creepy floo."
"I will. I'll also give Embers, Dusty and Crissy a pep talk. We wouldn't want them to think you're never coming home. Love you. Talk to you soon."
/*/
The Healer returned with more pain medication which Hermione refused. Leaning back against the pillow, a few tears slid down Hermione face. As horrible as the day had been, it could have been so much worse. For the first time since the attack, Hermione relaxed and her eyes closed of their own volition.