Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 54
Sal was taken aback. He and Chloe hadn't ever had a cross word between them, until now. An unsettling feeling came over him. Chloe was being deceptive. About what, he didn't know. "I know we aren't bonded Chloe and I'm not questioning you like you've stolen something. I'm simply asking if you know what Matt meant. If you don't care to explain, fine, but don't act as though I'm being unreasonable."
Chloe got up from the stool. "I'm a grown witch who doesn't have to explain herself to anyone except her father. However, since you won't let it alone, I'll tell you. I met Matt earlier this week. We spent Thursday and Friday together. We were supposed to spend tonight together but he got too clingy much like you're doing right now. Does that answer your question? I like you Sal but until you realize I'm going to do as I please it's probably best if you don't make any more visits to Scotland."
Sal watched her walk away. He felt let down but now recognized why she had held him at arms length. She was a witch who would do as she pleased whenever she pleased. To her, he was just one of a bunch. Sal had several more drinks before getting up. He'd made an error in judgment by calling Matt out. In fact, counting Chloe, he'd made two errors. However, only one could lose him a partner and a good mate at the same time. He needed to speak to Matt and Seth to clear things up.
Two minutes later, Sal was stepping out of the floo into Matt's house where two pairs of eyes turned to look at him.
Sal sighed. It was time for him to come correct.
/
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 55
Seth was as good as his word. He had followed Matt back to the house in Milan where he found his brother sitting on the couch morosely sipping on a drink. Still confused over what had just gone on, Seth questioned Matt. "What was that all about Matt? Sal can sometimes be hotheaded but never with you. What turned him into such a maniac?"
Matt set his glass down on the table before turning to look Seth in the face. "I was out of line Seth. I made several remarks that didn't need to be said. A situation made me step out of character which never should have happened."
"What situation Matt? That doesn't make sense. You and I have been through the worst of situations. None of which caused you to act in a manner that would make a mate go at you like that, especially a good mate."
"It was personal."
"Personal, personal?" Shouted Seth. "You see Sal three times a year at most. What could you have personal between you?"
Matt leaned back against the couch and clasped his hands behind his head. "Stop shouting brother. I appreciate your concern, but as I said, I was out of line. I'll apologize to Sal when I see him. Just leave it alone."
Seth huffed away to use the bathroom still raving and still confused. He knew his brother. This piece of shite explanation wasn't setting well. He also knew his best mate. Sal was almost as laid back as Matt. Excitable Italian, yes, but shouting and threatening just wasn't his style. Seth also knew if Matt didn't want to elaborate, he wouldn't. He'd just have to wait and speak to Sal. With a sigh of resignation, Seth sat down at the other end of the couch and poured himself a drink.
"So much for an exciting night on the town. Perhaps we'd been better off staying in Milan."
Matt grinned at his brother. "That's an understatement if I've ever heard one. What's worse is I flooed all the way back here instead of Apparating two minutes to The Luxe. It appears I've lost my mind on several counts."
"Well brother. Let me be the first to say you are always welcome in your own home."
They both laughed.
He and Matt were laughing, but Seth wasn't convinced his brother was back to himself. However, there was nothing he could do if Matt didn't want to discuss the problem. So they sat there in companionable silence each lost in his own thoughts.
They both looked up at the same time when Sal stepped out of the floo. Neither wizard said a thing.
/*/
Sal was hesitant to approach the two men, but knew what he had to do. "I know I'm not your favorite person right about now Matt, but I owe you an apology for the way I spoke to you, shouted actually. I've spoken to Chloe and everything has been made clear."
"Chloe? Who is Chloe?" Asked a startled Seth. "Are you standing there telling me you went mad on my brother because of a witch? A witch for fucks sake."
Matt stood to face Sal. "There's no need for an apology Sal. It was me who could have handled the situation better."
"What fucking situation?" Asked an incensed Seth. "Where the hell was I when all this was happening?"
As the two wizards stood facing each other, Matt waved his hand at Seth. "It was nothing Seth. A simple misunderstanding which Sal and I will now rectify by shaking hands."
Matt and Sal shook hands, but Seth was still upset. In all the years he and Sal had been mates there hadn't been many cross words between them. They'd had a few disagreements over what Sal called Draco's devious behavior but not too much else. Now this. His mate shouting like a madman at his brother in a public space. It was highly unlikely things would be rectified with him by a handshake.
Seth stood. "It's all well and good that you've shaken hands. My question to you Sal is about this Chloe Knight. Is she the reason you've been so secretive sneaking back and forth from Scotland? If so, what does it have to do with Matt? Are you that insecure you go mad if another wizard speaks to her? If that's not it, please explain to me what is."
"Calm down Seth. This was between Matt and I. Now it's finished. Let's move on."
"Calm down? Really Sal? Are you the only wizard allowed to shout the house down? Move on my arse."
This time it was Matt who replied. Turning to Seth, he made a request."Sit down and finish your drink Seth. This doesn't concern you and it shouldn't have any impact on the way you address your best mate. It's over and done. Let's all have a drink. There is one thing though. Please don't invite me out again."
Seth took a deep breath and smiled at Matt. "Have no fear brother. The last thing I want is to be out in a club or pub with a wizard who doesn't know how to act. I'm going to let Emilio know he probably shouldn't get married because you definitely don't know how to act when you're out on your own."
Matt sat back down. "Please Seth. You'd be preaching to the choir. As recently as Thursday, Mr. Lozier was ready to duel a mob had one appeared. It took me and one of the FF to get him to the portkey office."
Seth laughed out loud. "That I would have paid money to see. It would seem both you and Emilio have left your manners in the Ministry at Milan."
Sal chuckled at Seth's statement but received a roll of the eyes in return. He knew things between him and Seth might never get back right if he didn't explain it all. However, explaining it all might embarrass Matt as much as it embarrassed him, but felt it was what he needed to do. Turning to Matt, Sal apologized in front explaining he needed to set things right with Seth.
"I'm not sure an explanation will calm my overly stimulated brother, but have at it Sal. Seth has been my brother all our lives. He's seen me get myself into worse situations. The point is I know how to get myself out."
Seth ignored Matt. "Say what you have to say Sal, because at this moment…..."
Even with the situation, Matt was tired of hearing Seth self righteous bullshite and cut right across him. "Enough Seth. Enough. You seem bound and determined to find out what went on so sit down and listen."
Seth sat down heavily in a chair. Whether he wanted to admit it out loud or not, he was being obnoxious. Like Matt said. It was time for him to sit down and listen.
/*/
Sal was hesitant to start but Matt pushed him. "Tell your story Sal then I'll tell mine no matter how simple it makes me appear. Of course you'll both have to make a blood oath never to tell another soul. Both Sal and Seth looked over at Matt only to find him smiling.
"Come on you wankers. I'm joking. Nothing is worse than having a half mad wife who tried to kill a good friend and was glad to do it. Anything else is inconsequential. Show me the wizard who hasn't ever made a mistake and I'll show you a lying prat. I'm going to have another Mortlach. Anyone care to join me?"
Both Sal and Seth took one as well. Then Sal began to relate the story. When he finished, Matt shared his run in with Chloe. For several seconds after Matt finished speaking, the room was dead quiet. Then Seth began to laugh. He laughed so hard Sal and Matt couldn't help but grin.
"You two men about the world, highly polished wizards, brilliant in his own right prats were taken in by the same professional slag. I can't believe this. Too bad this story will never leave this room. It would have made front page in the Milan Mirror as well as The Daily Prophet. Witches and wizards in both countries would have laughed their arses off. Hahaha. I'm glad I didn't have any business in Edinburgh or London. Otherwise, I'd probably be part of the story as well." Raising his glass, Seth toasted the two dolts. "To lovely, one night witches and the chaos they leave in their wake. Hahaha. Wash her up good. Excellent retort brother, if I do say so myself. Let's have one more drink then forget all about this bullshite."
Seth walked over to where Sal was standing, extended his hand then pulled his best mate into a hug. "To best mates, partners and brothers."
Matt stood and headed to the bathroom leaving a bit of snark in his wake. "Merlin Seth. I thought you'd never stop talking. It's only 10:45. Shall we try a quiet pub here in Milan?"
Sal and Seth broke out in hysterical laughter with both shouting an emphatic no at the same time.
/*/
Hermione and Emilio were sitting up in bed discussing what they might do for Sunday. The current plan was for them to take Scorp out and about. Perhaps they would go back to the games arcade. Scorp had enjoyed himself there in the past. Leaning over to kiss Hermione, Emilio suggested they might want to wait until morning to make firm plans because if he knew anything, he knew Carmela would want to put out a Sunday dinner. Hermione agreed.
With that subject finished, Emilio explained the battle between Sal and Matt about who would be his Best Man. Hermione laughed out loud when he shared how both wizards expected to be chosen. Emilio asked for her thoughts.
"Hahaha. I would have thought Harry would put himself in the running."
Emilio gave her a skeptical look only to realize she was joking. "For a moment you had me going. Auror Potter isn't even in the running love. I'm not even sure I want him there. I do want the lovely Hannah there so it looks as though I don't have a choice."
Nudging Emilio with her shoulder she told him not to be a prat before sharing her thoughts on Sal and Matt. "I love both Sal and Matt. However, the Best Man spot is your purview. You don't need my thoughts on that."
Leaning over to kiss Hermione again, Emilio grinned. "I knew that. I just wanted to make sure you weren't stumping for Mr. Maida. Matt will be my Best Man. Hopefully, he'll find himself a plus one before next year."
"I hope that as well." Hermione replied. "As long as she isn't some half mad cow out to kill me."
Grabbing Hermione in a tight hug, Emilio assured her that mad cow witches only appeared once every one hundred years, but if another one should appear, he was sure she'd be much quicker with her wand.
"Funny Mr. Lozier." She remarked, turning so her entire body was up against his. "For that remark you'll have to pay some dues."
"For someone who was reluctant to have sex in the parents house, you've become quite vocal." Emilio replied, running his mouth up and down Hermione's neck removing her top as he went. "But I will never refuse to pay my dues because you are the witch I love."
Moving herself into position, Hermione whispered her thoughts. "And I love you Em. Now do your job."
As he slid himself into position, Emilio whispered back. "Making love to you will never be a job. It will always be my pleasure."
As she lent herself over to Emilio's thrusts, Hermione thought, I know that.
/*/
It was late, but as soon as her phone rang, Celia knew it was Ron calling without looking at the caller-id, but was surprised to hear Marissa say hello.
Hello Marissa. What can I do for you this time of night?
I don't know Celia. Perhaps you can tell me how Emilio turned up engaged to Hermione Malfoy no less. We spoke last week yet you failed to mention your brother had designs on the widow Malfoy or even that he was dating.
You might be upset Marissa but you'd better tone down the way you are speaking to me. You're angry with me because Emilio won't date you. Sounds like a you problem. If Emilio has asked you to step away, step away. My brother's personal business is his personal business. Although I'd advise against it, if you want to know how he came to be engaged to Hermione, ask him. Even better, ask Hermione.
Fine, I'll step away but it's good to know exactly what kind of wizard you have for a brother.
What's that supposed to mean Marissa? As Emilio has told you and I'm telling you, keep his name out of your mouth and move on.
I'll move on alright, but I will be sharing the news that your lovely brother was probably being inappropriate with Draco Malfoy's wife while he was alive. We'll see what that does to his standing. And her, she's just as bad. I'll have her name spread all over as well. Perhaps darling Emilio will have time for me when Mrs. Malfoy runs into a wall of shame.
Celia sat up from her reclining position. Marissa had gone to far.
Say whatever the fuck you want Marissa if you want to go up against Emilio and Hermione. This childish bullshite won't go well with either of them. I'll let them know what to expect. When it comes down to it, it might be you who runs into a wall of shame as a disgruntled… Just what are you? You definitely weren't a girlfriend, a witch on his arm or even a one-off. I've said all I'm going to say Marissa. Actually, there is one more thing. In the future, if you can't be reasonable, don't ring my number.
Fine Celia. Have it your way. Since I'm going to be at loose ends, perhaps I'll give Ron a go. He's available right now and he's always in my face. Goodnight.
Before Celia could off a response, Marissa disconnected the call. Celia sat there seething. If Ron Weasley touched Marissa in any way, he could kiss their relationship goodbye, for real and for good.
Without thought, Celia rang Ron's mobile, but before he could pick up she disconnected the call. If Ron wanted to have a go at Marissa, that was his right. They weren't bonded or even in a stable relationship. Both him and Marissa could kiss her arse.
/**/
Matt who was up early Sunday morning decided he didn't want to remain in Milan. After gathering his things and shrinking them down, he wrote a quick note to Seth and Sal thanking them for a lovely night out suggesting they never invite him out again. Matt signed it best regards. Fifteen minutes later, he was in suite 212 putting away his clothing and kicking off his shoes. It was back to the real world for Matt Lozio.
Matt hadn't showered before leaving Milan so he undressed and stepped in. Throwing on a short robe, Matt sat down on the couch and summoned a breakfast menu from the counter. The magical menu not only changed days automatically, but it updated the days offerings as well. Sunday breakfast this week had four offerings. Matt chose number 3 which consisted of two waffles, two eggs, two sausages, coffee and toast. While waiting for breakfast, Matt noticed an envelope which had been slipped under the door. He hadn't noticed it when he opened the door but perhaps his mind had been on other things. Summoning the envelope with his wand, Matt couldn't imagine who would be sending a message. He soon found out.
Matt sat straight up when he looked at the signature. Chloe Knight was sending her apologies.
Matt,
I want to apologize for what went on at Club Crystal. I have known Sal for a good while. I was more than surprised that you and he are acquainted. Small Wizarding World. I'm quite sure somewhere down the line MCC will be working with Whitehall. I don't want there to be bad feelings between us. I still hope you will lead whatever team MCC chooses to send to Edinburgh.
Thanks for Thursday and Friday.
Your lady of the night,
Chloe.
Matt laughed out loud. "As if. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice shame on me. At one point in time, I looked forward to perhaps running a team going to Edinburgh. As of now Miss Chloe, if there is to be a team, you'll be dealing with Richard and Adam. I hope you allow them to get a presentation out of the way before you try to shag them.
Matt threw the message onto the table in front of him just as the doorbell rang announcing the arrival of his breakfast.
Matt tipped the delivery wizard and hurried to the kitchenette to eat his meal. He was starved.
/*/
Hermione was up and showered fairly early leaving Emilio and Scorp sleeping intending to cook the Sunday breakfast, but Celia got there before her.
"Good morning Celia. I had thoughts of making breakfast for the family. You beat me too it."
"Good morning Hermione. I've been up for ages. Couldn't sleep. If you'd like to make the tea and coffee, I wouldn't say no. Today I decided on pancakes, eggs, sausage and toast. I hope Scorp will be pleased."
"No worries Celia. Scorp is an eating machine. He'd eat the table mats if someone poured syrup on them."
Celia tried to suppress a giggle. "Your little wizard does not play around." Hesitating for a brief second, Celia mentioned that Emilio had spoken to her about calling him dad. "Sorry if I caused a problem, but I now know the rule. It won't happen again. At least not until after Em marries you both."
Hermione smiled. "Thanks Celia. Scorp is like a Niffler. He doesn't give up. That's why your brother and I have created a few rules. As long as we are all on the same page, things will be fine."
The two witches had an easy chat about this, that and the other before Hermione stood up. "The coffee and tea are under warming spells. I'm going to check on Scorp."
"Alright Hermione. Breakfast is ready."
/*/
Before checking on Scorp, Hermione wanted to check on Emilio to be sure he was covered up. Her wizard was known for throwing off the covers showing his bare butt to the world. It was a surprise when she found the bed empty. Hermione was about to head for the smaller bedroom when she heard Scorp speaking to Emilio in the bathroom.
"Do I hear my two favorite wizards?"
"Yes mum. It's us. This new underwear is too tight. I had to ask Meelio to help me pee. He didn't have the cover over him."
Oh Merlin, thought Hermione. My son has seen the dick hanging out way before he's four. "Bad Emilio." She said looking directly at Emilio. "Big wizards will have to learn to keep the blankets up high."
Emilio was bright red, but before he could reply, Scorp sorted the whole thing out. "It's okay mum. Meelio is a boy. We look alike."
Emilio whose face was the color of a beet offered a smart comment on the matter. Although Scorp had explained nicely, Emilio cleared everything up by throwing Hermione's own words back at her. "Except for size, a big wienie is the same as a small wienie."
Hermione gave Emilio her version of the stink eye only commenting that they would be discussing the use of blankets later.
"And pajamas," offered Scorp. I want some with stripes like Meelio then we really will be the same. Stripes are for big boys. Right Meelio?"
With a wink at Hermione, Emilio lifted Scorp up. "Absolutely right young man. We are all finished in here. Time to go see about breakfast."
Scorp hadn't seen anything except striped pajama bottoms. Hermione followed her two men back to the kitchen grumbling about her cheeky fiance.
/*/
Emilio had been right on one point. By the time they were finishing up breakfast, Nonna Mela was on the mobile inviting the Loziers and the Loziers to be to Sunday dinner. Hermione stepped away from the table to converse with Carmela for a few minutes before returning to help clean up.
"Carmela has invited us all to dinner for 5:30." Before Scorp and Emilio could get away, Hermione suggested they take Scorp to the arcade as they had discussed. There would be plenty of time before they were expected at Carmela's.
Turning to Emilio, Scorp put on a wide grin. "I like the games. I can show you how to play Meelio. Nonno probably doesn't want to come because he doesn't like pink and blue cartoons."
Neither Hermione nor Emilio could figure out what one had to do with the other, so they just went with it. Taking Scorp by the hand, Hermione led him to the small bedroom to get him dressed while Emilio and Emiliano remained in the kitchen having a good laugh over pink and blue cartoon animals.
Celia and Ilaria sat watching the father and son interact. Ilaria happy that her husband and son were finally acting like father and son. Celia sat wondering about Ron pushing up on another witch and should she share Marissa's threats with her brother. In the end, Celia decided not to spoil the moment. If Marissa wanted to act the arse, she would deal with Emilio. Excusing herself from the table, Celia headed for her rooms. She was going to call Ron, because him dating Marissa just wasn't sitting well.
A few minutes later, Hermione called Emilio to come put on a heavy jumper only to hear Scorp echo his mother about getting a jumper.
"Excuse me mother, father. My fiancee and fiance beckon."
/*/
Emiliano walked over to leave a kiss on Ilaria's cheek. "Do you realize we haven't had a cross word between us since Emilio and his family arrived?" Lowering his voice, Emiliano added. "We've even had some wonderful sex. I believe life can only get better."
"That's my belief as well Em. Now if Celia would get herself sorted we'd be golden."
Emiliano sighed but didn't comment. Hadn't she just told him the prior evening to stay out of their daughter's business? But like his wife, Emiliano wanted the best for his daughter.
To change the subject Emiliano asked Ilaria how she felt about going to dinner at the Maida's. Ilaria answered with a wide smile. "I think it will be a lovely time. You said Fausto treated you respectfully when you were there. Carmela treated me very well when she was here. If nothing has changed, I believe we will have a lovely dinner. In fact, I think I'll make a large antipasto salad to take with us, and perhaps a nice cream cake."
"Slow down mio caro. One item should be enough. Dessert or salad, pick one. We wouldn't want it to seem as though we're showing off."
Ilaria wanted to do what she wanted to do and told Emiliano what was what. "It's not showing off Em. I'll present the salad and Hermione can present the cake or vice versa. See, problem solved." Leaving a kiss on Emiliano's cheek, Ilaria advised him she might as well get started.
Emiliano let out a soft grunt before excusing himself to the den.
/*/
Hermione, Emilio and Scorp arrived back at the house a little before 2:00 to find Ilaria busy in the kitchen. She started talking before anyone could say a word. "Hello all. I've made antipasto salad and a cream cake which we will be taking to Carmela's. Em thinks it's too much but if I present one and Hermione presents the other we should be fine."
Emilio glanced at Hermione. His mother was nervous. She was rambling. Realizing the same thing, Hermione stepped in. "That all sounds lovely Ilaria. I'll carry the salad because my dear Carmela knows I do not do well with desserts."
Ilaria took a breath and laughed. "Here I am going on and on and haven't even greeted my little nipote. Come give Nonna a kiss."
Scorp hurried over to kiss Ilaria on the cheek but seemed a bit confused that he hadn't been the one to hold sway over the conversation. "We had fun Nonna but now I have to get washed up and dressed because we're going to Nonna Mela's for Sunday dinner. Mum and Meelio have to get ready too." Grabbing Hermione by the hand, Scorp began pulling her towards the bedroom. "Come on mum. Let's go get ready. We don't want to be late."
Emilio smiled over Scorp's antics as he kissed Ilaria on the cheek. He followed Hermione and Scorp down the hall. They were invited to dinner. He had to get ready. He didn't want to be late.
/*/
Once Emilio entered the room, he was surprised to find a grumpy sounding Scorp lying on the big bed. Hermione saw the questioning look in Emilio's eyes and explained. "Scorp was up early this morning so no matter how grumpy he gets he's going to take a quick nap."
"Scorp not grumpy. Scorp is abitary." Scorp huffed.
"Neither one is very nice Scorp." Emilio remarked, turning away to hide his smile. "If mum thinks you need a nap, then lie down quietly and take a nap. When you wake, it will be time to visit Nonna Mela."
"Okay Meelio, okay. I won't be abitary when I wake up."
Two minutes later, Scorp was dead sleep. Pulling Hermione into his arms, Emilio began kissing and touching, but she whispered that he shouldn't get too far ahead of himself. "Ilaria probably needs help in the kitchen. Besides, it's the middle of the afternoon. It wouldn't look good for me to be caught with my knickers down."
Squeezing Hermione tighter, Emilio kissed her ear whispering he would like nothing better than catch her with her knickers down before removing his arms. "Alright. Go see if mother needs help. I'm going to stretch out beside Scorp. We will revisit my wants and needs later this evening. I love you Mrs. Hermione."
"Really?" Asked Hermione. "You're just saying that so I'll take off my knickers."
Laughing softly, Emilio admitted she was half right before throwing his arms over his eyes. He loved her and wanted those knickers off.