Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 63
Of course I don't mind, especially if he comes bearing gifts. I've found a few things myself. We'll present them to Louis after dinner.
Sounds like a plan. Why don't I hear my someday son?
Scorp is having his nap, otherwise he'd be at my side waiting to find out who is on the phone. I know this is a never ending story with Scorp, but today he recognized Aunty Hannah's stomach. She and I explained about her and Harry having a baby. He went through a whole litany of questions before finally remarking that he'll be glad when you and I have enough money saved up to get us a baby. I will not repeat what your favorite, pregnant witch whispered to me.
Hahaha. I can imagine. I'll be having words with her.
Hermione laughed out loud.
If you do, I think you'll only embarrass yourself. We're having baked chicken tonight. If you're good and Matt doesn't stay too long, you'll be having a nice dessert.
Lowering his voice, Emilio whispered a few things before telling Hermione he loved her and would see her about 7-7:30.
Alright love. Scorp and I will see you later. Have a good afternoon.
I've spoken to my fiancee. How could it not be a good afternoon? Love you.
Hermione leaned back in the chair thanking Merlin once again that Emilio Lozier had waited for her.
/*/
After his conversation with Hermione, Emilio remained at his desk thinking salacious thoughts about dessert when his eyes wandered to a notation on his calendar, James. He immediately rang his assistant explaining his need to reserve a suite at The Luxe for Minister James Wooley starting Friday morning through Sunday evening.
Emilio waited for confirmation of the reservation before going to find Gas or Matt to see how things had gone at Fieldcrest.
"Done and done."
/
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 64
Emilio was out of his seat and a few steps out the door before turning back to contact James about his reservation at The Wizarding Luxe. Emilio rang James' private line, but the assistant picked up. Rather than go through an entire spiel, James told the assistant he would contact James by mobile, which is what he did.
James picked up on the second ring.
Minister Wooley here.
Hello James. I have news I need to share. I would have left the information with your assistant, but I assume you are keeping your private business private for the moment.
No problem Emilio. My assistant is trustworthy and discreet, however, you have me now. What do you need?
Actually James, I don't need a thing. I'm calling to give you your itinerary for this weekend.
Ah! My itinerary. I look forward to the trip. Whenever you're ready.
Good. You are booked into suite 310. Your reservation runs from 10/30 Friday 10:00 am London time through 11/1 Sunday 8:00 pm. I wouldn't worry too much about checkout time because your suite is only doors from mine. If you don't want to leave London immediately after checking out, Matt and I would be glad to show the amazing Luxe Bar.
Got it. Thanks Emilio. I'll see everyone on Friday. Have a good afternoon.
Alright James. We'll see you Friday. Talk to you soon.
Another thing done and done thought Emilio.
/*/
After his conversation with Emilio, James hurried to his next meeting thinking what a fortuitous day it had been when Minister Emilio Lozier had chosen him as his assistant. There had been dark days, but the light ultimately outweighed the dark.
/*/
Emilio found Matt, Gas, Ezra and Adam in the conference room chatting about where they thought MCC could take Fieldcrest. He greeted them all in one. "Good afternoon wizards. Are we winning?"
"Good afternoon Emilio. We are indeed winning. Gas, Ezra and Adam have big plans for Fieldcrest."
"Hello Emilio."
"Afternoon Emilio."
"Mr. COO." Gas added with a nod.
Emilio raised his eyebrows in Matt's direction. "Sounds great, but also sounds a bit rushed."
Adam glanced at Matt. "May I speak?"
Matt grinned as he gestured towards Adam and Ezra. "Of course you may speak. When has any of you blighters stood on ceremony? If Nicholas was here, he'd probably already be talking. Speak Mr. Wilson, speak."
With a nod and a smile in Matt's direction, Adam explained in detail what had transpired at Fieldcrest including receiving another promising lead given them by Trevor Wright. Adam explained that Trevor's sister Jasmine ran what MCC would class as a lower tier company which is geared towards the financial health of women.
Both Emilio and Matt sat up straighter. Geared towards females. That was novel.
Adam realized he had grabbed Matt and Emilio's attention and became even more expansive.
The company called Financially Wrightis on the border between magical and muggle London. Jasmine is also looking to level up, but isn't sure she met the qualifications needed to be represented by MCC. He and Ezra had taken the opportunity to sit with Jasmine, and had come to the decision they would love to work with Financially Wright as long as top management was onboard.
Matt was first to offer his opinion. "Sounds promising Adam. You've been quiet Ezra. We'd like to hear from you."
Ezra hadn't hesitated. "I am in total agreement with Adam and Gas. Miss Wright and Financially Wright would be assets to MCC. One other thing Adam and I spoke about was bringing fourth level Caitlin Mathers in to assist on this one. She's brilliant, and if I do say, as focused and relentless as the FF."
Emilio posed a question. "Are you suggesting the Fantastic Four be turned into the Fantastic Five over one possible lower tier?"
Giving Adam a quick glance, Ezra hesitated a few seconds giving himself time to frame his answer. "That would be a resounding yes. Adam, Nicholas, Richard and I believe we should have a brilliant witch on our level not only for this account but for others down the road as well. Not to sound disparaging. Caitlin may be a witch, but she works and thinks like a wizard."
Having a brilliant, tough and resilient witch for a fiancee, Emilio jumped right in. "Personally, I like the idea. One caution. There are many brilliant witches who could run circles around some wizards so please don't repeat how she works and thinks like a wizard. Hopefully, Miss Mathers works and thinks like a witch. We will give Financially Wright and Miss Wright a chance."
Knowing Emilio was thinking about Hermione, Carmela and several others, Matt added his opinion. "I agree with Emilio. Be careful of the words you choose because you might not have meant to be disparaging, but that's how it came off. With that said, we place great store in the opinions of the FF. Get Miss Mathers up here so Emilio, Gas and I can have a conversation."
Giving Adam a quick grin, Ezra stood. "Would now be too soon? Caitlin is waiting in the small conference room. Before we meet Caitlin, I'd like to add that Jasmine will be making an appearance here a bit later. Trevor has asked that she drop off the invitations to The Fieldcrest Event to Emilio. Before anyone mentions the ease of sending the invitations by messenger, let me say, I think Jasmine wants to have a look at us."
Matt, Gas and Emilio stood with Matt replying to Ezra's bit of cheek.
"We are The Beasts. Miss Wright will love us. On to business. Let's go meet the possible addition to the FF. Nicely done Ezra, Adam. Her pay rise will come out of your salaries. The way the FF is finding new clients we might have to have a Fantastic six or seven." Matt added as they left the room.
Emilio and Gas were chuckling as they left the larger conference room for the smaller one.
/*/
The meeting in the small conference room lasted all of thirty minutes. Caitlin had been with MCC just as long as the FF. Contrary to being married to Hermione Granger and adopted by Carmela Maida, Draco hadn't seen the advantage of having a brilliant witch on a higher level or on par with wizards of her caliber. The current management team thought otherwise. Caitlin had come prepared to sell herself. She brought a list of all the ventures she'd been involved in. Most had kept her on the periphery of the transactions, but Matt and Emilio could easily read between the lines. She was a force and could easily fit in with the FF.
After excusing Caitlin, Ezra and Adam, Matt, Emilio and Gas discussed the matter with all three agreeing Caitlin Mathers would be given a spot on the FF with a ninety day probationary period. If she worked out as they thought she would, she would become a permanent addition to the FF.
Matt set some orders. "Gas, I'd like you to see to all of this. Bring Caitlin back to your office to explain details. Give her a small bump in pay for the ninety days. If she works out, we'll make her level with the boys. Make sure she has two mobiles, and a temporary office on the FF floor. Scrutinize her well. Loyalty, discretion and pride in her position above all else. After meeting with Miss Mathers, meet with the entire Fantastic Five to let them know what's what. She will work with Ezra and Adam on the Financially Wright request when/if Jasmine becomes a client. Emilio and I expect to be kept in the loop."
Gas assured Matt he would see to everything.
Alone in the small conference room, Matt and Emilio discussed what had gone on.
"So much happening in such a short period of time. I think it might be the exact time for James to come aboard," offered Emilio.
Matt shrugged away the comments. "It might be a good time for James to come aboard, but one thing has nothing to do with the other. We have managed so far."
Emilio wasn't trying to rile Matt. He was simply making a point. "I'll have to disagree cousin. In the space of several hours we've taken on or will take on three new clients, added a fifth level three and given a witch a high ranking spot. With Gas' less than stellar performance in the past, I truly believe a standout second level is needed. I'm not saying James is the be all end all, but with him in top management, we'd be sure everything was on point. You and I can't be everywhere."
"When looked at in that light Emilio, I believe you're right. As I said, the way Adam, Ezra, Nicholas and Richard are adding accounts we might need a sixth and seventh third level. Why do that if we can add an exceptional second level? Happy now?"
Emilio laughed and moved on to the next subject. "The day has gotten away from us. I think we should put off speaking with Richard and Nicholas about The Polaris Brothers until tomorrow. I'll inform Gas. Right now I'd like to take a look at the specs for Financially Right. When Jasmine gets here, I'll bring her to your office for introductions."
As he and Emilio headed towards their own offices, Matt made an inquiry and a statement. "Do you know Jasmine from prior times?"
"I do," stated Emilio not slowing down, but turning his head to give Matt a stare.
"Don't give me that look cousin. As bad as my luck is with witches, I'll fall in love with her only to find out she's already dated you."
Emilio howled before stopping dead in his tracks to face Matt. "Stop Matt. You have me howling like some tosser in the corridor of our company. Just so you know, I have never dated Jasmine Wright, but….."
It was Matt's turn to laugh. "But nothing prat. Keep talking and I'll have Mrs. Hermione on your arse."
Still chuckling, Matt and Emilio went their separate ways.
/*/
It was quiet in the house. Scorp was upstairs potentially helping Dusty and Crissy with their duties. It had all she could do to keep from smiling when Scorp had told her he wanted to learn clean up so he could keep his room in the new house clean. Dusty had tried to assure Scorp he would never have to clean. That was what she, Crissy and Embers were for, but Scorp had been insistent. Hermione had gone along by softly telling Dusty to show him how to dust. Scorp had walked away grinning. He was going to learn something.
Hermione pulled out the three photos of Caleb thinking to clean them up to make them more presentable. She had an idea. After cleaning the photos, she had spelled them so once they were set to Louis' specifications, they would sit on a shelf but come to Louis when requested. To that end she named them Caleb1, 2 and 3. All Louis would have to do was call a photo by number and it would appear in front of his portrait. To return it to the shelf, all he would have to say was return to place Caleb1, 2 or 3.
Hermione was patting herself on the back when her mobile rang. "Nice bit of magic Mrs. Hermione. Let's see what our handsome wizard wants."
Summoning her mobile, Hermione was surprised to see not Emilio Lozier but Ginny Weasley on the Caller-ID.
Ginny Weasley? Hermione hadn't seen or talked to her in years. Hermione believed it wouldn't be a productive conversation.
Hello Ginny.
Hello Hermione. How are you?
I'm well enough. How about yourself?
I'm fine. I just got back to London. I've been in Abu Dhabi for the last several years. Ron told me you and Emilio are engaged. How nice. Lucky witch got to have two of the most handsome wizards around. How is Emilio? Ron told me he is a top manager at Draco's company. That must be strange as much as he and Draco disliked each other. Emilio got the wife and the company. It's probably a good thing Draco is dead. Just kidding. Just my little joke.
Hermione was fuming. Another of Ginny Weasley's little jokes. We all know how those usually turn out.
If you've rung me up just to tell me what Ron told you, I'll let you in on a little secret. I don't care what Ron thinks or says. Neither do I care for your signifying shite cloaked as jokes. If that's all you have to say, I have things to do.
Ginny was quick to try to keep Hermione on the line. It was obvious she called for a reason.
Wait Hermione. I apologize if I sounded as though I was signifying. I wasn't. I actually called to see if you have Seth or Matt's details. Ill be in London for a bit and want to give them a shout while I'm in here.
Hermione was ready to throw the phone across the room. This bleeding witch was arrogant enough to believe she would share Matt and Seth's details with her. As if.
Sorry Ginny. I don't give out personal information. The next time I see Matt or Seth I'll tell them you were inquiring. Now if you don't mind, I'll be getting back to my son. Have a pleasant afternoon.
Ginny let out a soft huff.
Still the same Hermione. Ron thinks…
Hermione didn't give Ginny a chance to say one more thing about what Ron thought. She disconnected the call while Ginny was still talking.
Hermione was raving internally. Summoning a bottle of white wine and a glass, she leaned back in the chair trying to get her emotions under control hoping she wouldn't have to hex a witch.
/*/
Theo had brought Sal and Seth to the farthest part of the West End of London to show them a massive warehouse abutting Goodge St.
Sal and Seth looked at each other. The space looked perfect for their needs.
"We scoured London Theo and never saw this. In fact, Sal and I were in this vicinity but never saw this warehouse."
Theo touched the side of his nose with his forefinger. "Didn't I tell you you have to know where to look? This beauty has been cloaked for the last year. The developers ran out of galleons before it was finished. They cloaked it to keep the sots and tossers away until they could sell it or secure financing. So far they haven't been able to secure financing. It was so far over budget even MCC wouldn't touch it."
Sal and Seth were blown away. From the outside, the massive building appeared to be exactly what they needed.
"Come on. Don't look so surprised. Cloaking isn't something new. We are dealing with wizards after all. I have permission to tour the place. Be careful mates. I wouldn't want you to injure yourselves. At least until I get a deposit. Just kidding. Let's go inside to give it a look over."
"Alright. Inside it is," parroted Sal. "One thing. If we want this place, MCC will be glad to support us. Seth and I are connected."
Theo laughed out loud. "Yes, there is that."
/*/
The inside was perfect for what Seth and Sal had in mind. Walking through the corridors, they discussed their vision. Two floors and a full warehouse. Ideal. The building was unfinished, but it was still more than either wizard had anticipated. In all their discussions they had imagined having to build from the ground up, and now, an almost finished building had fallen into their hands. Once again, Theo Nott, Realtor extraordinaire had come through.
Sal addressed Theo as they left the building. "Unless something unimaginable comes up during an inspection, we are offering to buy the building. Let's get back to your office so we can discuss specifics. I want to secure funding as quickly as possible."
Seth was a bit more restrained. "Slow down Sal. Is it possible to have a look around the back and sides Theo? I want to get a better sense of what is what."
"Not a problem Seth. If you like, after we view the outside, we can go back inside to have a better look."
"Fine. Let's do it. I want to build a branch of SSE here in London and this building fits the bill. However, I will slow down. During this walk through, I suggest we look for what's wrong instead of what's right."
"Finally, my partner has his head on straight. I don't know what he'd do with out me." Seth taunted.
Theo walked ahead shaking his head. These two jokers better buy something or he'd definitely hex them for wasting his time. Gesturing for Seth and Sal to follow him, Theo started for the back.
/*/
Back in Theo's office, both Sal and Seth agreed that once the finishing work was done, the building would be ready to be SSE London. Both wizards were chuffed as they waited in Theo's customer service area for him to write up the paperwork.
Clapping Seth on the back, Sal cheeked how if it had been any easier to find a warehouse it would have bitten them in the arse."
"Yes Sal. I get it you're pleased. Now why don't you ring Hermione to let her know her new position is open and waiting."
"Arse," replied Sal softly.
Seth didn't mind being called an arse because he had one more thing to add. "You know what would be even better Sal. You could ring Emilio to let him know Hermione's position is open and waiting. He'll love that."
Sal would have responded, but at that moment Theo appeared in the doorway. "Alright gents. The contract is ready for your review. We can adjust it as we go along. Let's get this done."
Thirty minutes later, Sal Maida and Seth Lozio were in tandem owners of the proposed SSE London. Because of who he was and his reputation, Theo had been authorized to offer the property at the excellent price of $1,500,000 and had accepted a hefty down payment of $500,000 with the remaining balance to be paid in three payments by 12/31/09. Theo was more than chuffed. Rarely did the sale of property this large go this smoothly.
After both Sal and Seth signed the contract, Theo excused himself. He was going to hand carry the contract to Gringotts personally to get it down in the records. Of course the entire transaction was contingent on Sal and Seth meeting requirements which Theo knew wouldn't be a problem. The two wizards finances were above reproach.
While Theo was gone, Sal and Seth discussed next steps.
"I think we should find a group of reliable builders and developers to complete the work before anything else. While the builders are working, we need to find….."
Seth held up a hand. "Slow down mate. I agree we should look into Developers, builders and contractors. However, we should first approach MCC to find out what they have to offer. Perhaps Matt, Emilio and the Fantastic Four will be able to find us a company or companies that will cover all our needs. After all, they have a shiteload of different companies under their umbrella. I'd rather give our business to family than some unfamiliar outsider. I'll put a call in to Matt to see what we can set up. Looks like we might be in London for longer than two weeks."
Sal couldn't disagree. Everything Seth said was spot on. If the family could help them, it was the way to go. "Alright, contact Matt. If MCC can't help us, they can probably steer us in the right direction. Perhaps tomorrow we can get Matt, Emilio and Gas to take a walk through with us. Now. Once we are through here, I'd like to have lunch. I'm famished."
"You're always famished Sal. If you can hold off for a few hours, we can invite ourselves to Malfoy Estate to have whatever Hermione and Scorp are having. If you're lucky, Emilio won't be there." The last Seth added very softly and with a very wide smile.
Sal huffed but didn't offer any response. He had fucked up and Seth wasn't going to let him forget it.
/*/
Theo was back in no time with signed and approved loan documents. After handing over the keys and alarm codes, Theo took a few minutes to remind Sal and Seth about the Shrouding Charm. To remove the shroud; Shroud, swish and two reverse flicks. To replace the shroud; Shroud, swish and two flicks. He suggested the building remain shrouded until work began. Seth and Sal took note of it all. They thanked Theo for his time and expertise before leaving.
A chuffed Theo watched the two wizards as they left his premises thankful for their business and glad he didn't have to hex the wankers.
/*/
The day at MCC was coming to a close. Matt, Emilio and Gas were in their respective offices tidying up their own particular pieces of business.
Caitlin had been invited to join what was now known as The Fantastic Five. She was over the moon about her new position and had thanked Gas and the FF over and over. She, Ezra and Adam planned to remain behind to go over every aspect of Financially Wright before sitting down with Jasmine who had been informed it would be a trio overseeing her account.
Ezra and Adam were more than happy because they believed in Caitlin.
Richard and Nicholas were happy as well because The Fieldcrest Company was now an MCC account under their purview. In addition, they had been charged with getting The Polaris Brothers in order if it became an MCC account.
Matt had received a message from Daddy Knight requesting an appointment which he passed on to Emilio. As any good COO would do, Emilio returned the message asking why he wanted an appointment when his daughter was quite sure he wasn't interested in hearing what MCC agents had to say. The message had a friendly tone but got the point across nicely. Emilio dropped it in the out box on his assistant's desk to be sent out Thursday.
Jasmine Wright who had stopped by Emilio's office to drop off the invitations was introduced to Matt and Gas. Jasmine informed the Beasts she was looking forward to her meeting with Ezra, Adam and Caitlin on Thursday. In return, Matt told her MCC looked forward to Financially Wright coming aboard. Matt thought she was quite fit.
It was a great ending to a very productive day.
/*/
It was 6:30 pm when Emilio and Matt approached Hermione's door. Emilio normally apparated in but tonight Matt was with him so he used the front door. They were met by an excited Scorp who had news. His uncles Sal and Seth were there for dinner.
Matt grinned.
Emilio sighed knowing the only dessert he would be getting that evening was bloody custard. Then he was face to face with Sal and Seth who greeted him before he could greet them.
"Good evening Mr CEO and Mr. COO," offered Seth extending his hand.
"Hello wizards," said Sal also offering his hand.
After greeting Seth and Sal, Emilio went to track down his fiancee who was nowhere in sight. "Where's mum Scorp?"
"Mum is in the kitchen making dinner. Come on Meelio. Mum was shouting at the phone. She needs her..." Scorp stopped before saying allotment knowing it was private, family business.
Emilio followed Scorp to the kitchen wondering why Hermione would be shouting at the phone. "Hello love. My someday son has alerted me to the fact you were shouting at the phone."
Hermione gave him a tremulous smile. "Hello love. Come give us our allotment. I'll explain the other thing later. Dinner is just about ready. Have Scorp wash his hands."
"Alright love. You do not seem to be your sunny self. I hope your brother hasn't been acting out."
"No. Harry has been fine. I'll explain later."
"Alright then. Come on Scorp. We men have to wash our hands before dinner."
"You have to tell the uncles to wash their hands or they can't eat." Scorp remarked in a soft voice.
Emilio stopped in the living room to deliver the message. "Dinner is almost ready wizards. Please wash your hands by order of young Scorpius."
Scorp laughed. "By order of me."
Matt answered for all. "Thank you Emilio and Scorp for that reminder. We are talented wizards who will clean our hands with magic."
Scorp looked up at Emilio who simply nodded his agreement.
"Okay Uncle Matt, okay. When I get a wand, I'll clean up by magic too."
By the time Emilio and Scorp returned from the bathroom everyone was at the table. They were last to be seated.
"What are you all waiting for? Food is on the table. Serve yourself."
"We were waiting for you to serve." Joked Seth.
Hermione gave him a fierce side eye. "Good. Sit there and wait for me to serve you. You'll be an old wizard before that happens."
"Hahaha. Old wizard like Fausto."
All the men laughed with Sal commenting he was going to tell Nonno Fausto that Scorp was making fun of him.
Scorp glanced from Hermione to Emilio. "Uncle Sal is being mean to Scorp."
Hermione gave Emilio a nudge under the table.
Mimicking Scorp, Emilio raised his fork pointing it in Sal's direction. "Don't be mean to Scorp or we'll tell Fausto on you."
Scorp grinned as he moved his head from side to side. His Meelio had given Sal a telling off. Scorp was glad Meelio was going to be his dad.
/*/
The talk around the table was lively and a bit loud. After dessert, the wizards gravitated to the living room. However, before they could plant their arses, Hermione told them they were going to visit with Louis because she and Matt had gifts for him.
"This ought to be good. My ancestor sometimes forgets to show gratitude. What are the gifts?"
Matt and Hermione showed the portrait and photos around.
"I imagine these are images of Louis' family. They are amazing. Where did you find them?" Asked Seth.
Hermione told him she had found the photos of Caleb in the Malfoy documentation. Matt told them he had found the portrait and photos in their mum's papers. Before they headed to the den, Hermione explained what she had done with Caleb's photos suggesting she do the same with the photos Matt had found.
"I've already set empty shelves. Let me spell the items you have Matt. We'll explain to Louis after he sees what we have. I believe it will work out nicely. Anytime Louis gets in his feelings and wants to gaze at his family, all he has to do is call out a name and a number."
"You've outdone yourself love," remarked Emilio.
"Yes mum. You outdone yourself," added Scorp.
Matt, Sal and Seth grinned at the precocious, little wizard.
Seth gave his input. "Whether or not the photos make Louis happy all depends on his mood. After all you and Matt have done, if he doesn't come correct, he'll hear from me. I'm ready if you all are ready."
Hermione gave Seth a hug. "Calm down SSE boy. At the moment, you are the only one being cross."
Seth laughed as he hugged Hermione back. "Cross and proud of it. I learned from the best. Let's go do this because Sal and I need a word with Emilio and Matt before we leave."
They all trooped en masse to the den.
/*/
For once, Louis' eyes were wide open as he watched his family and extended family troop into the den.
"Good evening all. To what do I owe this wonderful event? Matthias, Seth. Both of you here at the same time. Has something happened?"
Everyone greeted Louis at the same time, but it was Scorp who spilled the beans. "Hi Louis. We came to give you presents."
"Presents?"
Emilio leaned down and whispered to Scorp. "Let mum and Matt speak."
Scorp danced from one foot to the other but remained silent.
Hermione and Matt stepped forward with Hermione explaining what she and Matt had found. Louis' eyes were the widest they'd ever been when Hermione waved her wand and the portrait and photos appeared. After several more swish and flicks, the items were settled on the shelf.
Matt stepped up to Louis to explain what Hermione had done and how he would be able to call up any of the items by simply calling out a name and a number. From there, he and Hermione demonstrated how it was done while the others just about gasped in awe.
"My sister the brilliant witch," Sal exclaimed with pride."
"I second that," added Seth.
Matt and Emilio glanced at each other probably thinking of their earlier conversation with Ezra and Adam. Some people thought a witch couldn't be as brilliant as a wizard. As if.
Full of pride, Emilio gave Scorp's hand a little squeeze and Scorp squeezed him back without realizing his someday dad was a bit emotional. Sal, Seth, Emilio and Scorp watched as Hermione then Matt called out a name and number.
If a living portrait could be emotional, Louis was that as he watched Caleb1 appear before his eyes then Caleb2. When Matt called out IdaCaleb1 and the portrait appeared, Louis did something he hadn't done in all the years he'd been with the family, he cried.
"My family. My family. My poor Ida. I'm so sorry. My son."
The one and only bit of cheek was offered when Louis looked at his own photo. He said he couldn't believe how handsome he'd been.
No one said a word as Louis went through his agony and ecstasy. The ancestor took a look at each photo in turn then called for IdaCaleb1 for a second view. The group as a whole decided it was time to leave Louis to himself for a bit so they filed out.
Louis took his eyes off his witch and son long enough to call out a very loud thank you before turning his eyes back to the portrait.
Back in the living room, Hermione hugged Matt telling him it was a job well done and that was that. Back to normal.
/*/
Even though it was late, Sal and Seth reminded Matt they needed a word with him and Emilio.
Matt nodded. "If Emilio doesn't have any objection, we can have a chat in my suite. No sense in keeping Hermione and Scorp up entertaining company."
Seeing his night of dessert evaporating before his eyes, Emilio gave Hermione a wistful look before responding to Matt. "I guess we can do that. I'll just say. This discussion better be a matter of great importance."
Clapping his semi irate cousin on the back, Matt remarked that for Sal and Seth's sake it had better be. He said his goodnight to Scorp and Hermione gesturing for Sal and Seth to come on.
Sal hugged Hermione and Scorp before following Matt out. Seth gave a wave as he too followed the others out.
Hermione sighed as she too saw her night of serving Emilio some seductive dessert evaporating. She also needed to explain about the call from Ginny and why she was shouting at the mobile. Those things would have to wait. "If you have a few minutes Mr. Lozier, I'd like you to give Scorp his kisses so I can put him down for the night then wait here. I'll be right back."
"Of course I'll wait. Matt, Seth and Sal can begin without me." Emilio sat down on the couch knowing Hermione asked him to stay because she wanted her allotment. Seeing how he wouldn't be giving her anything sexier, he just went with it. There would be other nights.
/*/
It had taken Hermione ten minutes to get an overly stimulated Scorp to settle down, but her wizard was there waiting patiently. When he saw her coming down, Emilio jumped up to meet her at the bottom of the stairs. Grabbing her in his arms, he crushed his lips against hers. "There isn't any way I'd leave without getting at least one kiss from my fiancee. I love you Mrs. Hermione."
Hermione let her tongue run across Emilio's lips as she whispered her thoughts. "I love you more Mr. Lozier. I've had my allotment, but my nights in the new, greatly used bedroom are adding up, so don't make a lot of plans."
Emilio chuckled before pulling Hermione in for their next kiss. "Counting the nights then?"
"Yes love, I am. Before you go, I'd like to reveal why I was shouting at the phone."
"I wondered about that when Scorp mentioned it, but it wasn't up to me to inquire. I was sure you'd tell me if you wanted me to know."
Hermione grabbed Emilio tightly around the waist. "I have not and will not keep secrets from you. I was upset because Ginny Weasley rang me up with some Ron said bullshite. I was furious. She also had the nerve to request Seth and Matt's details. I refused both requests and hung up while she was still talking, after which, I shouted at the mobile. There you have it. She and her brother both get more vile as the years go by."
Emilio was furious but remained composed as he gave Hermione a last kiss. "Do not upset yourself or Scorp. I'll see to Ron, and if Ginny gets in the way, I'll see to her as well. No worries. I know Matt, Sal and Seth are waiting to hear me wax profound on whatever the hell it is they have to say, so I'll be going, but I'll be thinking of you. It is going to be a busy day at MCC tomorrow, but I will be here for my allotment and my dinner before 6:00 pm tomorrow. Enjoy the rest of your evening. Love you."
"Love you more." Hermione called out to her forever wizard.
/*/
Emilio arrived in Matt's suite in a somewhat surly mood. He'd left his witch to have a discussion with a group of wizards. Their shite had better be stellar. After twenty minutes of discussion, Emilio had to admit it was. Sal and Seth definitely had a stellar request. They wanted MCC to represent all aspects of SSE London.
Done and done.
Shaking hands all around, Emilio summoned a brandy before telling Sal and Seth to proceed because they had his attention.
Matt nodded in agreement thinking only something of this magnitude could keep Emilio away from Hermione without him wanting to hex a mob.