Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 57
Reaching out to hug Sal, Hermione replied in a soft voice. "You've always been there for me Sal. Always. And I want to be there for you. In this case, I'm going to decline the opportunity. However, I will also say that down the road I might be interested in a bit of part time work."
"I'll keep that in mind love. Although, down the road might make your choices even harder. I'd offer my apologies to Emilio but I think he's in the mood to hex the arse off me, so I'll take a pass on that. Seth and I will be nipping out of here very quickly. We have documents to review before our meeting in Belize tomorrow morning. I love you sister Hermione and apologize for upsetting Emilio. I will be in touch to let you know how things are going. Be well."
Giving each other a quick hug, Hermione headed to the living room to gather up her family for the return trip to Lozier Estate while Sal turned in the opposite direction and headed to the den where Seth was waiting. Sal wasn't looking forward to dealing with his partner who probably had the words, I told you so, on his lips.
/*/
Ilaria, Emiliano and Celia who had already said their goodbye were standing by the floo waiting for Hermione, Scorp and Emilio. Scorp was chattering away when Hermione approached them.
"Mum. Me and Meelio are waiting for you. Nonna said it's time to go. Meelio has the take home sack. It's big."
"I know love. I just had to speak to Uncle Sal for a moment. I'm ready. That is a big sack." Turning to Emilio, Hermione asked if he was ready.
"We are ready. Scorp and I will go through first with you behind us. The rest will follow with father bringing up the rear. I have thanked Carmela and Fausto for our engagement dinner. She will call you tomorrow. Off we go."
Following Emilio to the floo, Hermione knew her wizard wasn't happy, but for the moment, he would have to remain that way until she could give a full explanation. As she stepped into the floo behind Emilio and Scorp, Hermione wondered why she had thought taking on a project as big as what Sal suggested was a good idea. It didn't matter now as Sal had rescinded the request. The hard part would be explaining herself to Emilio, if he felt compelled to listen. Sunday evening at The Luxe might not be all that romantic.
Hermione let out a long but soft sigh as she stepped out at the Milan West floo office.
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A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 58
Sal had been almost right about his partner. While Seth didn't come right out with I told you so, his glaring stare spoke volumes.
"Happy now Sal? You just had to have it your way. I'll bet that was the first time Hermione has ever raised her voice to Emilio. Not to mention upsetting Scorp. The little wizard just about shite himself hearing Hermione and Emilio having a go at each other."
"Of course I'm not bloody happy Seth. It wasn't my intention to cause problems between Hermione and Emilio, or upset Scorp."
"And yet…. Hermione and Emilio left here barely looking at each other. I'm certain they'll work it out, but none of it was necessary. Can we now agree you'll post help wanted ads in the various newspapers and periodicals? After Belize, we'll be free for at least two weeks during which time we can get the project started. In fact, why don't we give Theo Nott a call tomorrow to explain what we are looking for. I'm sure he'll be able to direct us to suitable premises."
"Alright Seth. I suppose we could do that. Theo is top when it comes to real estate. If you're ready, I suggest we be on our way."
"I've been ready mate. However, I'm sure your mum has some choice words for her youngest. Why don't I go on ahead. I'll see you at the hotel."
"Just hold on Seth. I'll speak to mum and we'll leave together."
"Ah, the son now fears the mum will kick his arse if he approaches her on his own. No thanks mate. Go take your medicine like a stand up wizard. I'll just say a quick goodbye and be off. I'll see you in Belize."
/*/
Sal knew he hadn't meant to upset anyone. He hoped his mum knew as well. Waiting until he heard Seth say goodnight, he took several deep breaths before going to approach his mother and probably his papa as well.
Too late. Taking two steps toward the door, Sal came face to face with an unsmiling Carmela.
"Well done Sal."
"Mum, you can't believe I meant for any of this to happen. I love Hermione and Scorp. I'd never interfere in their lives." He replied with a hand over his heart.
With another roll of the eyes, Carmela barked at Sal. "You know Hermione as well as I do. If you ask for a favor, she'd move heaven and earth to help. That, however is beside the point. The point is you never should have asked. I'll tell you right in front. I decline your offer to drop everything and run to London. I cannot speak for Hermione, but I hope she declines as well. Do better Sal." She added before striding from the room.
Sal followed. "Mum, please calm down. I have rescinded my offer to Hermione and she has acknowledged she might have been too hasty in entertaining my request. It's all good. Seth and I have a tentative plan. I love you mum. I apologize for upsetting the Sunday dinner. I need to get going. Seth will be waiting for me. He and I have a meeting tomorrow morning in Belize. There are things we need to discuss. Have a good night. I'll just go say goodnight to papa."
Sal had taken two steps towards his parent's bedroom when Carmela called him back pulling him into a hug. "I love you too son. I'm also very proud of all you've accomplished. Go say goodnight to your papa. Tell him I'll be there in a minute."
"Alright mum. Seth and I will probably see you soon. We actually have two free weeks coming up."
/*/
Carmela slumped down into a chair. She didn't like to get cross with either of her sons, but sometimes…. Leaving the thought there, she got up from the chair and headed to the kitchen where she would clean what was already clean to give father and son a chance to speak privately.
/*/
Except for Scorp's chattering, the group that stepped out of the floo was fairly quiet with Emiliano, Ilaria and Celia wondering what had gone wrong between Hermione and Emilio.
The lack of conversation embarrassed Hermione who knew it was because they all had her shouting at Emilio. Pulling a smile onto her face, Hermione took Scorp from Emilio and excused herself.
"I'll just go get us packed up."
Emilio also excused himself but headed to the study inviting his father to come have a drink with him.
Giving Ilaria a strained smile, Emiliano followed his son to the study. If it was company his son needed, he was glad to help.
/*/
Celia started to ask her mother a question but was met with an upturned hand. "If you are about to inquire into something that isn't our business, don't. Emilio and Hermione will get it sorted on their own. Carmela sent a very large sack. Please take out a piece of cream cake and a bit of pork medallion linguine to put aside for your father. I'm going to take a quick shower before Emilio, Hermione and Scorp leave."
"Alright mother. I can do that. A shower sounds good. I think I'll take one as well. The antipasto salad was excellent. I think I'll put a bit of that aside for myself. Mum?"
Ilaria turned to face her daughter. "Yes Celia?"
"Don't worry. Emilio loves Hermione. A bit of shouting never ended any relationship."
Walking over to Celia, Ilaria pulled her into a hug. "I realize that love. Your brother would die before he let Hermione get away. I'll see you in a bit."
Celia sighed as she put away potions as her mother had asked mumbling as she went. "I've been in Italy long enough. It's time for me to find Ron and get back to Belgium."
With everything wrapped and set aside, Celia pulled out her mobile before heading to her room where her first task would be to ring Ron.
/*/
Once they were in the study, Emilio poured himself and Emiliano a brandy. The two men sipped in silence for several minutes before Emilio spoke up.
"You and I have never had the type of father-son relationship that lent itself to sharing our private thoughts."
"I apolo…."
"I'm not looking for an apology father. It was what it was. I believe neither of our personalities were conducive to sharing private thoughts. We've both changed. If it won't embarrass you, I'd like to share some thoughts now."
Emiliano shifted in his chair. He knew he hadn't been much of a father to his children when they were growing up. Pampering and listening to their children had been Ilaria's job. He'd been too busy amassing power and money. Now, he was about to have the privilege of speaking with his son on a personal level and he relished the thought.
A maudlin sounding Emiliano gave a surprising reply. "Listening to you share your thoughts will not embarrass me Emilio. In fact, it will be my pleasure to listen to the son I thought had lost all respect for me."
Emiliano's words sent a wave of warmth through Emilio. "It's never too late for a father and son to build a relationship. After all, in a couple of years you may have grandchildren to threaten."
Emiliano let out a loud chuckle. "Yes son. There's that. What's on your mind?"
"It's nothing too serious father. I'd just like a few pointers on how not to become you."
Emiliano sat up straight. "You are cut from a very different cloth son. You could never become what I was. Never. As confident as you are, are you suddenly doubting yourself because of one raised voice conversation?"
Emilio looked at his father and held his gaze. "I'm sorry you had to hear that. The conversation got away from us. The fact is I'm not doubting myself over a raised voice. I'm disappointed in myself that I made it come to that. Hermione asked for my input, and instead of giving input I questioned her judgment which did not sit well. She is my fiancee not my daughter. I should have been more sensitive to her wishes."
"From all I know, Hermione is a brilliant, level-headed witch who will see reason. If it isn't too personal, what does she want that makes you question her judgment?"
Picking up the brandy bottle, Emilio smiled as he poured Emiliano and himself another glass before answering. "I was the one who initiated this conversation father. If I thought it too personal, I'd be sitting in here alone brooding over my stupidity."
Emiliano answered with a chuckle in his voice. "Alright then, enlighten me."
"The long and short of it is Sal asked Hermione if she and Carmela would help him set up a branch of SSE in London, after which, she would run."
"And where would that leave Scorp? Where would that leave your relationship if she is off setting up a branch of SSE?" Asked Emiliano, setting his glass down on the table while staring at his son.
It was Emilio's turn to chuckle. "My thoughts exactly. It seems our opinions don't differ by that much after all. However, Hermione is a grown witch who must have thought it all out before coming to me. I just didn't give her a chance to explain. I think I'll never be alright with her off running some company, but…. But she and Scorp are my life. I'll do whatever necessary to keep them."
After a few minutes of silence, Emiliano spoke. "It seems you didn't need my advice after all. Go have a discussion with your witch. I'm betting you'll be back in each other's arms before the conversation is over. She and Scorp love you. You'll make it work. It's getting late. Perhaps you should go help with the pack up."
Emilio stood extending his hand to his father. "You're right. I should go see about my family. Thank you for the conversation father even though it is about fifteen years late. We'll see you before we go."
"Watch yourself mister. I may have changed but I can be the surly bastard of old if pushed."
Emilio raised his hand as if to wave off his father's words and headed to the large bedroom to help pack up his family.
/*/
Emiliano watched his only son leave the study thinking how far they had come. In his opinion, his son's change of heart and attitude had come about because he'd finally gotten the witch he loved. If it came down to Emilio taking Scorp to work on his back while Hermione ran SSE, that's what would probably happen. He wasn't about to run her away over bullshite.
Clearing his throat, Emiliano rose from his chair. It was time he went to see about his own witch. She was too quiet which usually didn't bode well for him.
/*/
Scorp started chattering as soon as Emilio entered the room. "Meelio. We're packing up. We have to get home because Dusty, Embers and Crissy miss us. Don't forget our sack."
After a quick glance at Hermione, Emilio replied to Scorp. "We won't forget our sack. Nonna Mela put it together just for us. Do you need my help with anything Hermione?"
Turning to Emilio with eyes which appeared to be welling up with tears, Hermione shook her head without answering. Emilio could see his witch needed comforting that couldn't be done in front of Scorp, so he said the first thing that came to mind.
"I think you should go use the bathroom before we leave Scorp."
Scorp jumped up. "Okay Meelio. Scorp needs to do a pee and I'll wash my hands when I'm done."
As soon as his someday son was ensconced on the toilet, Emilio pulled Hermione into his arms. Before he could speak, she spoke.
"I apologize for acting like some shrew. I was being hurtful when there was no need. Please forgive me."
"Come on now. We are a couple who won't always see eye to eye. I admit your comment about Scorp being your son hurt, but we can discuss that later. We can discuss it all later. Right now, I need for you to wipe those eyes. We wouldn't want our little wizard to think anything was wrong. Instead of going to The Luxe, why don't we go to your house to talk. Besides, if we keep Scorp away from Dusty, Crissy and Embers any longer, he'll melt."
Reaching up, Hermione left a kiss on Emilio's lips. "I think we can do that. The last thing we need is for Scorp to melt. He'd never let us forget it."
Before they could say more, Scorp called out that he needed Hermione to clean his bum and help him reach the sink. Grinning at her fiance, Hermione assured their little man she'd be right there.
Emilio smiled over not only what Hermione said but what Scorp had called out as well. He was feeling good. A quick kiss and a smile from Hermione had set the world back on its axis. He might not get to share intimacy tonight, but having a talk to ensure he and Hermione were back on the same page would probably feel just as sexual.
As the last thought drifted from his head, Emilio had to act fast as the little whirlwind known as his someday son came at him on a run grabbing him around the knees.
"Mum says we're ready. Shrink us down so we can get our sack and go home."
Emilio ran his hands through Scorp' hair. "Alright young wizard. I can do that."
Two minutes later, the three headed down the main hall to say goodbye and pick up their large sack.
/*/
Matt arrived at MCC around 3:30 on Sunday and had been surprised to find Gas and Ezra with heads together in the main conference room.
"Good afternoon wizards. I'm surprised to find you here on a Sunday. I hope this doesn't have anything to do with Dalca or Romania."
"Hello Matt."
Gas answered with a wide grin on his face. "Good afternoon Matt. Our being here has nothing whatsoever to do with Dalca or Romania. Ezra and I are reviewing a prospective client which we plan to address with you and Emilio on Monday."
Matt threw his arms open wide. "Why wait until Monday when we are here today? If it has merit, we'll run it by Emilio tomorrow. If not, it dies here today. Show me what you have."
/*/
For the next hour, Ezra and Gas laid out plans and offered explanations on why MCC should accept The Fieldcrest Company as a client. Matt was pleased with the entire presentation.
"Well men. From what I can see, MCC will be taking on a new, second tier client. The best of it is the company is located right here in England. There won't be any traipsing about some foreign country. I commend you both. I suggest you have everything ready by 10:00 am to present to Emilio and the rest of the FF. I had plans to work on a few things on my own desk, but those things can wait. Thanks to you two, I will now take my happy arse back to The Luxe where I will indulge in a few celebratory drinks. I'd suggest you both come along, but it is Sunday and you've spent a good deal of your off time here at MCC and probably want to get home, so go. Give my love to Seana and Evan. I'll see you both in the morning. Nicely done gentlemen. Nicely done."
Not only was Ezra chuffed to have been instrumental in securing a second tier placement, but looked forward to the perks attached to bringing in a new client. The prestige and extra galleons in the old pay packet wouldn't hurt a bit.
"Thank you boss. I'll see you in the morning." Ezra said, extending his hand to Matt.
"That you will lad. That you will. You can go home and practice puffing your chest out for Adam, Nicholas and Richard."
Ezra broke out in a grin. "If I tried that, they'd have my arse for afters. I'll settle for a pat on the back."
"Good man. You've learned well."
Gas stood by smiling as Matt spoke to his protege extended his hand as well waiting to wish his CEO good night. "Thank you Matt. I'll be sure to tell Seana you sent your regards. Have a good evening."
"Rest up men because I'm sure our COO will have plenty of questions."
"No doubt." Replied Gas with a faint blush. "I'll see you in the morning."
Matt was chuffed. Gas and Ezra had pulled what looked like a promising second tier company out of their arses. He went back to his office signed a few things then headed directly to his suite of rooms. No Luxe Bar for him this night. He was in too good a mood to deal with the next shady witch looking for a one night stand. He would settle for some Ogden's and a bit of dinner from the hotel kitchen.
After scanning the Sunday menu, Matt ordered chops with mashed and gravy and buttered corn before pulling out his mobile to ring Emilio to give him a heads up. He had dialed three numbers before disconnecting the call. Emilio was with his family. The last thing he would want to discuss was work. The heads up could wait until the morning.
As he waited for his dinner, Matt wondered how the weekend at Lozier Estate had gone.
/*/
It was almost 8:00 pm when Emilio, Hermione and Scorp arrived back at Malfoy Estate. All three house elves appeared almost as soon as the little family stepped into the house.
"Hello Mrs. Hermione, Mr. Emilio. Welcome home little mister. Me and Crissy and Embers been missing our boy."
Hermione sighed before replying to Dusty. "Thank you Dusty. Your little wizard had a wonderful time. He missed you three as well. Right now, he's very tired. I'd like you and Crissy to take him and his over night bag upstairs and get him ready for bed. I'll be up in a minute."
"Yes Mrs. Hermione. We be doing that. Come on Scorp. Let's get you washed up."
Scorp, who had slid out of Emilio's arms turned to Hermione. "Mum, mum. I'm tired but I want some of the big sack. Please mum."
Emilio who wanted to interject remained silent as he took a seat on the couch. Until he and Hermione discussed the unkind remarks about Scorp being her son, he would refrain from interfering. Strange word interfering when they were supposed to be a family. But that's just how it was for the moment. He was the fiance, but he wasn't the father.
Glancing quickly at Emilio, Hermione hesitated for several seconds before answering Scorp sure his someday father would set him straight. When Emilio didn't speak up, Hermione addressed the issue herself. Bending down to give her son a hug and a kiss, she explained it was late but he could have some of Nonna Mela's leftovers in the morning.
"Okay mum okay. I'll have some leftovers tomorrow. Me and Meelio like leftovers. Right Meelio?"
Emilio grinned at Scorp. Hermione might have an attitude about certain things, but his someday son would always look out for him. "That's true little man. We love leftovers."
Reaching out for Dusty's hand, Scorp put paid to the conversation. "I'm tired Dusty but first I have to pee. Jump me up please."
"Scorp. Say goodnight."
"Goodnight Meelio." He replied through a big yawn. "I think my Nonnas and Nonnos love us."
"Well spotted Scorp. Goodnight."
/*/
It was time for a talk, the talk and Hermione was nervous. She had actually told Emilio that Scorp was her son meaning he shouldn't speak on things that involved her son. It was mean and divisive. She hadn't meant it, but the words had come tumbling out of her mouth in the heat of the moment. Did she have to explain herself? Yes. Did she have to assure Emilio Scorp was as much his as hers? Yes. Would her words cause her fiance to take two steps back? She didn't know. Hermione knew stepping back wouldn't entail Emilio leaving them. He wouldn't. He loved them more than he loved himself. What she did know was she, Emilio and Scorp were a family no matter what bullshite she spewed while angry. In her nervousness, Hermione began to babble.
"Would you like me to make you something to eat or would you rather some pork medallion linguine. Carmela sent loads. If you don't want whiskey or brandy, there's Guinness in the refrigerator. If you don't want liquor, I will make us some tea."
Emilio kept his smile turned inward aware Hermione's babbling was down to nerves. Reaching out, he gestured for her to come sit down which she did at all speed. For three or four seconds, the engaged couple sat there waiting for the other to start. Moving closer to Hermione and holding her gaze, Emilio started the conversation.
"We are two strong willed people Hermione who normally respect the opinion of the other. Earlier, I acted as though your opinion or ideas didn't matter. I apologize for that. That wasn't my intent although you must have thought so by the way you responded. What I think we should do is begin again. Sal has made you an offer. Shall we start from there?"
Before beginning her explanation, Hermione leaned over to whisper against his lips. "Before I ever begin to explain, I want you to know you are the wizard I love and I understand the position you took about Scorp. I insulted you when I referred to Scorp as my son alone. It was vile and uncalled for because even though he is your someday son now, he will soon be your son. That little wizard loves you more than you'll ever know."
Emilio kissed the palms of Hermione's hands one at a time. "Thank you for those words Hermione. My heart tried to jump out of my chest when you seemed to be snatching not only our wedding but Scorp away from me as well. However, as I said, I was quick to accuse without hearing you out. Now that we are both calm, I'd like to hear the whole of your plan."
"The truth is, Sal rescinded his offer minutes before I could decline when he realized you weren't all that thrilled by his invitation
Emilio chuckled. "Yes. I guess there's that."
"The truth of it Emilio is I absolutely had everything planned out in my mind. I guess I miss the workforce more than I realized. I would have had Seana watch over Scorp during the day and he would be home with me-us at night. It felt right even though it might have surprised brand new mum Seana. In hindsight, I know I wasn't thinking of anyone except myself and my need to be in the thick of things. That has passed. I have a son to look after, a niece or nephew to welcome and a wedding to plan. SSE London is an excellent business opportunity for Sal and Seth. Not so much for me. Shall we pretend this small hiccup never happened?"
Hermione and Emilio understood their wasn't anything wrong in their relationship. Acknowledging this, Emilio offered a witty bit of cheek. "I guess we'll just have to argue effectively instead of divisively."
Hermione pulled herself onto Emilio's lap. "There won't be any more arguing Mr. Lozier. An exchange of words, possibly, but no arguing. Now that we have that settled, I'm wondering what you want to do with the big thing poking me in the bum. If you don't have any ideas, I have a few."
Jumping them up from the couch, Emilio grabbed Hermione by the hand. "You must have forgotten. I have the ability to multi-task. I can hold a fine erection and drag you to the new bedroom at the same time."
Hermione let out a soft giggle. "Cheeky blighter."
"Yes love I am that. Additionally, in the morning, I intend to impress you with my ability to dress myself one item at a time before our little man comes looking for some leftovers."
Hermione laughed out loud. "Bring that fine erection over here to the bed. I have a very fine honeypot waiting to use it."
"Yes you do have a fine honeypot. You'll get no argument from me."
"Good, because not ten minutes ago….."
Emilio cut her off covering her mouth with his. "I love you Mrs. Hermione, but the talking stops now."