Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 38
Emilio felt as though the last statement was ridiculous. "If Hermione requests Dreamless Sleep, she should have Dreamless Sleep, or has it become so dear it is tightly monitored?"
Although he remained professional, the healer gave Emilio a roll of the eyes. He had heard how poorly Mr. Lozier had treated the Head Healer at the other end of the floor. "Dreamless Sleep is widely available. If Mrs. Malfoy requests it, of course we'll see she gets it. However, as I said, with the adjustment of her medication, she should sleep through the night just fine. Do you have any questions Mrs. Malfoy?"
"Thank you healer. I do have one question. Why is the wound so slow to heal?"
"We believe the few hours the poison went undiagnosed is causing your slow recovery, but you are now well on the road to recovery. Someone will check on you in a few hours. Have a good night. Goodnight Mr. Lozier."
Emilio opened his mouth to grumble, but Hermione stopped him. "It seems I'll have a restful night after all. I know I said I wouldn't ask you to leave again, but I'm asking you to go have something to eat and get some sleep. I'll be fine. I'll see you tomorrow, after you get off work.
Emilio sighed, but knew Hermione was right. He was staving as well as tired. Tomorrow would be there before he knew it. "I know you are in better hands now, so I'll leave without argument. Please don't try any more strength exercises. I prefer you in one piece. I'll see you after work."
Leaving a soft kiss on Hermione's lips, Emilio turned back to smile when Hermione whispered that her kiss allotment was adding up.
"I am well aware." Emilio whispered back as the door closed behind him.
/
A/N: WARNING: Injury/Illness
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 39
Emilio was dead tired when he arrived back at The Luxe. The first thing he'd done was point his wand at the complimentary kettle. Tea would be good, and maybe a couple of Scorp's all time favorite, toasted cheese sandwiches. While he waited for room service to arrive, Emilio pulled out copies of the documents he and the team had put together in Cyprus. Contrary to all his grousing, Emilio realized the Cyprus matter was not all that intricate. The company was well run, well staffed and eager to expand. Perhaps best of all, the Heads and top people were well versed in English. As helpful as they were, language translation spells were annoying to use. Emilio re-read the bios of the two Cypriots who would be arriving with Gas and Nicholas.
Christos and Andreas, from the little Emilio had seen, were intelligent and highly motivated to get Malfoy Company Nicosia to the next level. Even though MCN was considered a lower tiered company in London, it was considered a huge success in Cyprus with connections to all sorts of people. It was a general consensus among Heads and top managers to become a top company around the world with London being their first step. While their goal was challenging, this was exactly the type of company he, Matt and Gas were looking for.
/*/
A soft ding alerted Emilio that his meal had arrived. He accepted the delivery, tipped the service wizard then sat down to enjoy his so called dinner. The word dinner reminded him he had volunteered to make dinner for Scorpius. Emilio knew he'd probably have to postpone the dinner now that Hermione was slated to remain in St Mungo's for at least another day. This bothered Emilio. He had made a promise to the little man and wanted to keep it, especially with Hermione unwell. There was a good probability he wouldn't even see Scorp for the next few days. Emilio knew he was being foolish, but he didn't want his someday son to forget about him. Emilio finished up the sandwiches, cleaned up after himself then headed off to bed where he laid there for an hour worrying about Hermione and Scorpius.
Normally when Emilio laid in his bed thinking about Hermione, his body would react to his thoughts. However, in this instance, his dick remained flaccid and unmoved. He wanted his witch well. Sex was far and away from his mind.
/*/
Adam, Richard, and Ezra had brought the day at MCC to a close yet they remained behind in Nicholas' office preparing for the arrival of their two guests. Nicholas had called to advise them that things had gone so well he, Matt, Gas and Emilio would be returning Tuesday instead of Wednesday with two guests in tow. The remaining three had been given orders to set up one of the larger conference rooms as a base for Andreas and Christos. In addition, Nicholas had suggested that they familiarize themselves with every aspect of MCN from the Head down to the lowest level manager. He wanted Matt, Gas and Emilio to be proud of their Fantastic Four. As soon as they had received the information from Nicholas, the three had gotten busy. As a result, by 10:30 pm there wasn't a point of that had been left unstudied. They would be ready if they were needed.
/*/
Nicholas, who was, as Emilio said, was a very astute wizard. Not once during the conversation with Adam, Richard and Ezra did he mention Matt and Emilio leaving early because of an accident. It wasn't their business, or his. It was just to be business as usual.
There was one piece of information he would never discuss unless addressed by Matt or Emilio directly because it was a bit embarrassing. The accident must have been of some magnitude to pull Emilio out of character as their COO had lost his shite entirely which was something Nicholas hoped he wouldn't see again. It was actually frightening. He had come away from his last interaction with Emilio before he left for the emergency port key willing himself never to get on the receiving end of an out of sorts COO's temper.
Several soft knocks on the door brought Nicholas out of his reverie. This wasn't London. Before he unlocked his door, Nicholas made sure he had his wand at his side. No matter how friendly the people he had met at MCN were, as in any foreign country there were elements who could mean visitors harm, especially at 10:00 pm.
"Who is It?" Asked Nicholas firmly, and was rewarded with a familiar voice.
"It's Gas. I'd like to have a word."
Nicholas pointed his wand at the door giving it a small twist. "Enter Gas."
The two wizards shook hands before moving into the decent sized sitting room.
Gas, who had been up since early morning with the rest was tired, but wanted to be sure everything was in place for their trip home in the morning. "Sorry for the late hour visit Nicholas, but we have been left in charge and it won't due for anything to be out of order."
Like Nicholas, Gas didn't feel the need to discuss whatever had sent Matt and Emilio home on the run.
Nicholas and Gas went over details until it was decided they hadn't left any stone unturned. The port keys were ready. The suites at The Luxe were ready. Offices for the visitors had been set up. A small reception had been scheduled for Wednesday morning to introduce Andreas and Christos around. All was well.
After their discussion, both wizards fell into their respective beds, and were asleep as soon as their head hit the pillow.
/**/
Hermione woke early Tuesday morning not feeling much better. In fact, the tightness in her chest seemed to have increased. While tightness around a wound usual heralded a part of the healing process, this didn't feel right. It was still hard for her to breathe. Because she still wasn't allowed out of bed, and didn't really have the capacity to call for a healer, a bell had been placed by her right hand allowing her to summon help. Pressing the bell, Hermione leaned her head back against the pillow taking the shallowest breaths possible. Her chest began to hurt something fierce. Fighting to stay conscious so she could explain herself to the healer, she closed her eyes. After what seemed like an hour, a young healer entered the room. She took one look and rushed back out the door to summon a senior healer.
"Healer. Please come quickly. You are needed in room 1-44."
"Lower your voice Miss. Your panic might panic the patients." He chided, quickly following the young witch into Hermione's room.
Once inside the room, the senior healer recognized the seriousness of the problem. Pointing his specialized healer wand, the wizard did several things one right after the other then gave specific instructions.
"Get the Head Healer in here now. Mrs. Malfoy has had another setback"
The young healer left the room and was back in seconds with a wizard not much older than Hermione. Immediately pulling his own specialized healer wand, the wizard called out a throat clearing spell, and a chest clearing spell as well.
By the time he had cast the second spell, an older female healer arrived at the bedside. "Everyone out. Now." Speaking to a now sedated Hermione, the healer spoke out loud as she worked. "Hello Mrs. Malfoy. I'm Poison Specialist Willis. Unfortunately, the original intake healers didn't recognize the seriousness of your wound when you were admitted. Had they called me straightaway, we wouldn't be at this point. No worries though love. I'll have you sorted in no time."
/*/
Hannah, Harry and Scorp were up early Tuesday as well. Harry had a quick breakfast with Hannah and Scorp then left for his day at The Ministry.
"Bye Uncle Harry."
"You're not eating Scorp. You need to eat your food to be a strong boy for your mum."
"I want to see my mum Auntie Hannah."
"We'll see mum after you eat and get dressed."
Scorp dropped his fork down on the plate with a clatter. "I want mum."
Hannah remained calm, but caring for an upset child for more than a hour at a time was out of her purview. "Big boys don't pout Scorp. Please eat some breakfast so we can get you dressed to go see mum."
"I'll eat Auntie Hannah. I'll eat. I want to get dressed and go see my mum. See, I'm eating it all."
Hannah breathed a sigh of relief. She would have a mutiny on her hands if she didn't get Scorp to St Mungo's.
"Good boy."
/*/
Scorp was washed up and dressed by 9:00 am. Hannah figured they would get to the hospital first thing to let Scorp have as much time as possible with Hermione. Like Matt, Hannah went to the room where she'd last seen Hermione to find it occupied by a stranger. With her heart hammering in her chest, she and Scorp approached the healer desk to inquire about Hermione.
"Good morning. Where is Hermione Malfoy? There's a stranger in her bed."
The healer checked something in front of her before answering. "Mrs. Malfoy has been moved to private room 1-44 which is family only."
Hannah didn't bother to reply. She simply asked for directions to the room. Five minutes later, she and Scorp arrived at the room only to be turned away by some young healer. Hannah was losing patience with all the cloak and dagger.
"Mrs. Malfoy's sister and son are here to see her. Check your bloody list then open the bloody door."
"Bloody, bloody, bloody." Repeated Scorp.
"No, no love. You mustn't say that." Whispered a flustered Hannah. "Auntie Hannah is being a bad aunt. Please don't repeat her bad words."
"Please calm down Mrs. Potter. I know you're on the list of family visitors. However, Mrs. Malfoy had a setback early this morning. The Poison Specialist is in with her. Why don't you and the young man have a seat in the family waiting room."
By this time, Hannah was shaking like a leaf. The only thing she could think to do was call Harry who answered on the third ring.
Good morning once again love. Everything alright?
No. Everything isn't alright. I'm standing here in some family waiting room shaking like a leaf trying to be strong for Scorpius. Hermione had another setback this morning. They have a Poison Specialist in working on her. They won't let us in. I'm afraid.
"I'm Scorp."
"Yes love. You're Scorp."
I'm in the middle of getting the boys out for the day Hannah. Stay calm. I'll be there as soon as I can. How bad is it? Did anyone explain the setback? Bloody, fucking hell. Has Hermione lost ground?
I don't know Harry. I don't know. The healer wouldn't explain anything. She just sent me straight to the family room.
Is Emilio there? Speak to him.
Hannah's voice rose a bit.
I told you Harry. They won't let us in the room nor will they give me any information. As far as I know, he isn't here.
Alright love. Just-just-just stay there. Call me back if you find out anything before I get there. Let me finish getting my team out. I'll see you in a bit.
Scorp began calling for his mum as soon as Hannah disconnected from Harry. All Hannah could do was tell Scorp he would see mum in a bit.
Hannah sat Scorp down in a chair and began pacing. Ten minutes later, the young healer appeared at the door to the family room.
"Mrs. Malfoy is resting comfortably. You may see her now. Please be cautious. Your sister has had a hard morning."
Hannah didn't even let the healer finish before she was dialing Harry.
Hello love. I know you're busy so I won't hold you. They have just come out to let me know I can see her. Scorp and I are going in. Hermione is resting comfortably. She had a hard morning. Whatever that entails, I do not know. We are going in. I'll speak to you later.
Alright love. It seems I won't be able to get away right now anyway. Hug Hermione for me.
Hannah didn't even say goodbye. She just disconnected. She had to go see about Hermione.
/*/
Emilio woke feeling crappy. His throat and chest hurt. Casting a refresh spell over himself helped a bit, but he still wasn't feeling himself. He just felt crappy.
"I'm too young to be falling apart."
Suddenly Hermione crossed his mind. Emilio wanted to stop in to check on her, but they had discussed it. He would see her after work. Emilio couldn't even get toast down, so he opted for tea only. After dressing, he grabbed his work case, took a look around to make sure he wasn't forgetting anything then headed to the lifts. Once outside, he Apparated directly into his office where he only stopped to drop his case and hang his suit coat. He needed to meet with Matt and Gas before the start of day.
Gas was on the phone, but held up a finger.
"What the fuck is it with these fingers?" Emilio grumbled softly.
Gas was off the phone. "Good morning Emilio. Have a seat."
Pointing his wand, Gas closed his office door. "Do you know how Hermione is making out? Is there anything Seana and I can do for her?"
Emilio became uncomfortable. He and Hermione had made a rule. At the moment, he shouldn't know more about Hermione than Matt. He was a grown man, but he wouldn't break Hermione's faith, neither would he lie. He would let Matt explain. "You might want to get details from Matt. I'm here to find out where we stand on MCN."
Gas gave Emilio a look, but didn't ask anything more about Hermione. "We are right on point with MCN. Our fantastic Nicholas had the foresight to contact Adam, Richard and Ezra to get them going. As of this morning, the three are well versed in what needs to be done regarding Christos and Andreas. It's been decided we'll let them get acclimated today. Wednesday morning at 9:00 am, we'll have a reception with the entire staff. Wednesday afternoon at 2:30, you, Matt, me and the FF will meet with our visitors. Here's the itinerary." He said, handing over a few sheets of paper. "Our FF is proving to be, fantastic."
"Good morning team."
Matt had arrived.
"I've been with our guests at their suites. Because I left Cyprus on the run, I wanted to assure Christos and Andreas that everything is on point. I plan to have Nicholas bring them in to tour the building later this morning. Thank you for the itinerary. You and Nicholas have left no stone unturned. I understand Nicholas has been proactive. Good man. Right now, we haven't discussed more than a two week stay with Christos and Andreas, but we'll see. Do either of you have anything for me? If not, I want to get back to St Mungo's to check on Hermione. I was there earlier, but she'd had another setback and a Poison Specialist was working on her at the time. The healers weren't letting anyone in Hermione's room. I plan to come directly back. I might just point out that I'm not all that chuffed with the service at that hospital. The healers attending Hermione are lacking. Since she was moved, the service has been a tad better, but another setback. The family may want to think about moving Hermione to a private clinic."
Emilio remained silent even though he was burning up inside. Matt hadn't thought to call him. Here he was sitting on his arse listening to Gas and Matt go on and on while his witch was suffering. At that point, Emilio was having the same thoughts as Matt. Hermione should be moved to a private clinic. Emilio made a quick decision. Rule or not, he was going to St Mungo's.
He spoke up. "I'd like to accompany you if you don't mind."
Matt thought he understood what Emilio was feeling, and nodded in his direction.
Gas was caught by surprise. In no way, shape or form did he think things were this bad. "Merlin! Is there anything Seana and I can do for her or Scorp?"
"Thanks Gas. Maybe after the healers get her straightened out, but for now, Hermione doesn't need anything except your good thoughts. Emilio and I won't be long. If Nicholas arrives with Christos and Andreas before we get back, please have Adam join you and Nicholas in showing them around. Let's go Emilio so we can get back. Thanks Gas."
/*/
Emilio held his tongue until they were outside the building. "When were you going to tell me about Hermione's setback? I'm sitting there like some arsehole listening to you go on and on about something I should have been first to know."
Then Emilio Apparated away.
Matt couldn't be angry with Emilio. If he were in his shoes, he'd feel the same way. Matt knew they would get it sorted, but at the moment, he was feeling the lowest of low. All this because his piece of shite wife.
Then, he too Apparated to St Mungo's and landed in a scene of bedlam.
/*/
Harry, who had arrived shortly before Emilio and Matt was at the desk trying to get information from the young, very overwhelmed healer on duty. Emilio was growling to be let in the room while Matt stood off to the side feeling as overwhelmed as the healer.
"Mrs. Malfoy already has two visitors. It doesn't matter if you're all family. My orders are…"
Harry cut across the healer. "Your orders? Get someone here now. I want to see my sister by authority…
Then Emilio cut across Harry. "It's my understanding a Poison Specialist was called in for Hermione. We'd like to speak to him."
The young healer threw up her hands as the Poison Specialist rounded the corner.
"Good morning. I take it you are all family. Please step into the family waiting room. I'll explain to everyone at the same time. I'll also ask each one of you to calm down. I will not have anyone upsetting my patient."
Emilio was beside himself. "Upsetting your patient? It's taken you bloody healers almost an entire day to realize Hermione needed a Poison Specialist."
The specialist wasn't about to get into a shouting match with the family over what she knew to be a failure on the part of St Mungo's, so she went ahead and explained the current situation. Mrs. Malfoy was definitely on the road to recovery. She'd had a complete body blood cleaning. The specialist explained as well how she had to cut away a portion of the skin surrounding the wound and they should be prepared to see a larger wound. The wound was ugly, but had immediately begun to heal.
Emilio was relieved. "Thank you healer. May we now see her?"
"You may. Mrs. Malfoy's sister and son are already in the room. Please don't get my patient excited."
/*/
When Emilio, Matt and Harry entered the room, they were greeted by the best thing in the world. Hermione who was sitting up with Scorp by her side turned on her brightest smile as she greeted them in a normal voice.
"Good morning gits. As you can see, the news of my death have been greatly exaggerated."
Hannah hurried over to hug Harry.
Scorp held his arms out to Emilio.
But Hermione had turned her eyes to Matt. "Get those thoughts out of your head right now Matt Lozio. All this has nothing to do with you. You are still one of my favorite gits."
An emotional Matt nodded then hurried out of the room.
/*/
Still holding Scorp, Emilio sat down at the bottom of the bed wanting to touch his witch but knowing this wasn't the time or place. However, Hermione contradicted his thoughts with her next words. "Each of you in this room knows Emilio and I are seeing each other. From here, we'll let the rest of the family know we are a couple. I'm injured. I'll need my wizard by my side."
Emilio grinned as he reached out to take Hermione's hand in his.
Scorp laid his head on Emilio's shoulder while patting his cheek with one hand as though he knew exactly what was going on.
Matt had returned to the room in time to hear Hermione's declaration. He, Harry and Hannah smiled at their friend and sister who, this time, was definitely on the road to recovery.
/*/
Although reluctant to leave, Emilio and Matt realized Hermione was on the real road to recovery so they could leave with light hearts. MCC was calling them. In addition, Gas and Seana should be allowed time to visit.
"I'm going to leave you once again my love, but only until the end of my work day. Face forward. No more setbacks while I'm gone."
Hermione grinned.
Not wanting to make a spectacle, Emilio was going to forego kisses. However, Hermione, called out before he and Matt could reach the door.
"It's out there now Mr. Lozier. At no time from now into the future will you walk away from me with giving me at least one kiss."
"She is definitely feeling better," laughed Hannah.
"My apologies Mrs. Hermione. I did not want to embarrass you in front of your family." Leaning in to kiss her, Emilio grinned at his witch. "I will never forget your kiss again."
Scorp giggled as he watched Emilio kiss his mum's lips. "Kiss me too Emeelio. Me too."
Emilio took Scorp's hand. "Little men shake hands."
"Yes. I'm your little man. I shake hands."
"Right in one Scorp. I'll see you and mum later."
/*/
Harry who was next to leave gave Hermione a kiss on her cheek with instructions not to scare the s-h-i-t-e out of him again.
Hermione smiled. "I'll try not to Harry. Last time, I scared the s-h-i-t-e out of myself. Thank you for coming to see me."
"We have things to discuss. Not now, but when you feel up to it."
Hermione knew what Harry meant and simply nodded. " Please do me a favor Harry. Tell Theo to bring the papers by the house tomorrow. He'll know what I mean."
Hannah kissed her husband goodbye telling him she would not be going to work and planned to stay with Hermione for a bit.
Scorp climbed back up to his mother's side lying there contentedly until his eyes began to close.
"I'm going to step out to have a bite to eat and call the pub. Can I get you anything before I step away?"
"No thanks Hannah. The Specialist Healer promised I could have a bit of soup this afternoon. I'll be fine until then. I do, however, need a mobile. You know. Just to keep a check on things."
"As if Mrs. Malfoy. No mobile for you right now. Relax and get well."
Hermione sighed. "Too sharp for me Mrs. Potter. I'll see you when you get back."
"Alright love. See you in a bit."
By the time Hermione was allowed soup, flowers and plants from the family almost filled an entire side of the room. Attached to the beautiful floral bouquet Sal sent was a card wishing her well along with the discreet notation, I've heard some things. I'm happy for you.
News travels fast, thought Hermione as she ran her fingers through Scorp's hair. I hope everyone will be as understanding as Sal. And if they aren't, ….. Who cares? Leaning back against her pillow, Hermione closed her eyes.
/*/
For the next bit of time, things went well. Hermione was on the way to being fully recuperated. Matt, Emilio and Harry had made it their business to send complaints to the Head of St Mungo's about the level of care Hermione had received. All four, Hermione, Matt, Emilio and Harry had received an apologetic letter assuring them that all shortcomings had been dealt with. The letter included an invitation to come in and speak to him if there were any other questions or suggestions. All four agreed their complaints had been reviewed and corrected. There wasn't any need to discuss it any further.
/*/
Although not completely back to herself, Hermione attended the court proceedings in the case of Wizengamot vs. Kim Reina. Hermione didn't have to testify as her declaration had been read into the record. However, she was required to be there in person in case Kim's lawyer had questions. In actuality, it had all been sorted out beforehand thanks to Harry. Solicitor Lorenzo Barese didn't have one question. Hermione didn't have to testify, but she had willingly faced Kim to assure the despicable witch she was still standing. Hermione's testimony had been emotional and heart wrenching which was probably part of the reason Kim received the harshest penalty possible, seven years in Azkaban.
Hermione had been surrounded by family and friends, but Matt didn't attend. He was still too embarrassed that his ex-wife had been the cause of all the trauma.
Along with the rest of the family, Hermione understood.
/*/
During the time Hermione was doing little while she regained her strength, she and Theo worked to bring his ideas to fruition. Theo purchased Malfoy Manor, and true to his word, he packed up every Malfoy thing of value to store it away for Scorp when he came of age. Then, he and an excellent team of developers, renovators and construction workers began the work of turning one manor with a bad history into three estates which would be used to make their own history.
While all the relocating, rebuilding and building was going on, Hermione chose the middle estate for herself and Scorp. She asked Theo to put out discreet feelers to Emilio and Matt whom she thought should have the right of first refusal on the other two estates. Hermione also charged Theo with selling Malfoy Estate when the time came.
Also during this time, Hermione, Hannah and sometimes Carmela worked on the Living Portrait project, but Hermione wasn't as chuffed about it as she once was. After hiring an excellent, young photographer who came with his own assistant, Hermione did a complete about face and handed all parchments, notes, and written thoughts over to them. Hannah followed Hermione around for days asking if she was sure. Finally, Hermione gave her favorite witch a telling off.
"You are becoming your husband love. I've made a decision. I won't be changing my mind. Can this be the last of this?"
A surprised Hannah was speechless for few seconds. She wasn't trying to be a nag. She was simply trying to figure out if Hermione was sure. "My apologies love. I don't mean to go on and on, but….."
"No buts Hannah. As far as I'm concerned, the Living Portrait project has been handed off, and that's where it will stay."
"Alright then. That's settled. On to the next thing. How will you handle the estates situation?"
"What situation?"
"Well. You and Emilio are now together, but he's been offered one of the new homes…"
Hermione caught on at once. She had been so busy tidying up all the Living Portrait loose ends. The living situation hadn't even been on her radar. "Even though Matt nor Emilio has gotten back to Theo, that's an excellent question Hannah. I'll have to discuss it with Emilio. You are most certainly keeping me on my toes. I just might have to hire you as my assistant."
Hannah let out a chuckle. "Not a chance Mrs. Hermione. One too many telling offs, and you'll have me in tears, but I will most definitely give you my non-assistant advice."
"Funny. You're such a comedian. Come sit with me in the kitchen while I make lunch. Scorp should be up from his nap soon. We'll have tea while we wait."
Following behind Hermione, Hannah responded in a baby voice. Please mum. Make burgers and chips. I need something greasy to keep me going."
Hermione reached out to pinch Hannah on her arm. "Yes. The more I think about it, the more I realize you are becoming exactly like your husband. Make yourself useful. Make the tea."
Hannah complied, with only a soft giggle escaping her mouth.
/*/
Christos and Andreas, with the help of The Fantastic Four, Gas and Emilio, learned all the tips and tricks MCC had to offer. They went back home comfortable with the knowledge they had acquired ready to share with their fellows. Nicholas accompanied the two Cypriots back to Cyprus and spent an entire week there to insure they got it right.
/*/
With the same ease he used in attracting witches, Blaise used his contacts to insure Matt's divorce was processed and finalized with very little fanfare. Not many people at MCC had ever seen Kim, or knew what she looked like. By the time most of London found out about a divorce, it was old news. Matt was happy. He liked it that way.
Matt and Emilio found time to engage in a memorable conversation where the tables were turned. No longer encumbered with a wife, Matt threatened to start banging around with Blaise and Theo. Although Emilio had laughed long and loudly, he responded with the same words Matt had used on him. If you do, I'll disown you. Both wizards had parted that night on a very high note.
/*/
During those same months following Hermione's hospitalization, everyone with the need to know was informed of Hermione and Emilio's decision to become a couple once again. The news was all the way out there now. As Emilio had promised, after the disclosure, he arranged port keys for himself, Hermione and Scorp to visit Milan. He was taking the loves of his life home to see his parents.
Ilaria was charming, warm and welcoming. Her son finally had his life witch. The frenzied, harried mother of prior times no longer existed. Ilaria simply basked in the knowledge that everything was finally right. Emiliano who had always had great respect for Hermione was happy because his wife and son were happy.
Initially, Scorp was skeptical of the two new people introduced into his life, and had clung to either his mum, or Emilio. However, after a few hours in Ilaria and Emiliano's company, Scorp became the life of the party.
It was an excellent visit which could have been somewhat awkward, but after a few nervous moments, and several discreet kisses from Emilio, Hermione had relaxed and enjoyed all the attention. It was also a big plus Ilaria didn't once mention the word wedding. She did, however, make it clear that she and Emiliano would be visiting London in the very near future.
Hermione insisted they would be most welcome any time they chose to visit.
Before Emilio, Scorp and Hermione left Lozier Estate, Ilaria and Emiliano had not only fallen in love with their son's someday son, but had been inundated with more words than they cared to know. It was all in good fun, because Scorpius Malfoy was a little joy.
While Ilaria and Emiliano were off in the back gardens with Scorp, Hermione and Emilio had shared a private conversation. It was agreed they would be returning not to Malfoy Estate, but to Emilio's suite at The Luxe in order to spend some private time together after Scorp fell asleep. Which is what they did. They had needs which couldn't, or wouldn't be met at Malfoy Estates. Emilio was still adamant on that particular point.
/*/
With everything basically back to right, it was easy for everyone to turn their attention to Seana whose belly was getting bigger than her. Seana didn't want a lot of fuss, but it wasn't a matter of what she wanted. The family wanted to fuss over her. The only time Hermione, Carmela, or Hannah left Seana to herself was when she got cranky. However, with her mum back in Ireland, Seana did learn to lean on Hermione and Hannah.
Scorp had become even more fascinated with Seana's belly, and had to be reminded that a wizard shouldn't touch a witch without invitation. While Seana had originally been uncomfortable with Scorp rubbing her stomach, as the pregnancy progressed, she allowed him a few rubs. The issue became moot the day the baby kicked while Scorp was rubbing. To the amusement of everyone in the room, Scorp had gone running to Hermione shouting that something had tried to bite him. After a good laugh, Hermione had explained that the baby was just stretching. Obviously unsatisfied with his mum's explanation, Scorp headed directly for Emilio where he let his feelings be known.
"Meelio! That baby tried to bite Scorp. I don't like him."
Emilio had some wise words for his someday son. "He wasn't trying to hurt you. He was just saying hello to his cousin. Perhaps now is the time for you to keep your hands to yourself until you can meet him in person."
"Okay Meelio. I'll keep my hands to myself. Biting isn't allowed though. Right mum?"
Hermione smiled at both her men. "That's right love. Little wizards are not allowed to bite."
"Okay mum, but he's too little to know. I hope he doesn't bite Auntie Seana."
The room had exploded in laughter as Scorp sat there perplexed.
/*/
Where Seana rebuffed the attention, Gas was thrilled. It wasn't that he didn't want to be around his pregnant wife. He loved her and their overly large belly. There were just times he needed to be alone to decompress from the frantic pace of MCC. There were even times Gas enjoyed a night out with Matt, Emilio, and every now and then, the FF. However, those nights were getting farther apart as Seana's delivery date approached. To Gas, he and Seana were living their best life which they would continue to do until their little bundle of joy arrived and threw their lives into the chaos of no sleep, changing nappies, and for Seana, tender breasts. Until their baby arrived, Gas relished being around his wife and rubbing the belly every chance he got.