Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 72
"I'll tell you this Hermione and we won't have to discuss it ever again. You've forgiven me for things done while I was under the blood curse. Mistakes all. You chose not to bring them up. You chose to forgive me. While not on the same scale, I choose to do the same. All secrets have been disclosed. Let's just move forward. There is one, small caveat. If some wizard comes sniffing around you, I ask permission to hex him where he stands."
Snuggling into her fiance, lover and champion, Hermione spoke a soft reply. "You have my permission."
"Good. That's settled. Suddenly, I'm hungry. Perhaps we should have taken a to go box of lamb and veal."
Poking Emilio with her elbow, Hermione responded with a bit of cheek. "Not lamb and veal. Aren't they too exotic?"
"For a wedding, yes, but not too exotic for a hungry bloke lying in bed starving."
Hermione let out a soft chuckle. "Go to sleep you git. Before you know it, your someday son will be ringing the mobile asking why you haven't come through yet."
Stifling a yawn, Emilio admitted that he looked forward to it.
"I love you Mrs. Hermione."
"And I love you Mr. Lozier. Sleep well.
/*/
As she dozed off, Hermione remembered she hadn't asked about Mila. Then, just as her eyes closed, a long ago memory surfaced. If it was the same witch, she had met Mila on at least two occasions when she'd come to Milan to visit Matt. Before Hermione realized the memory was nothing more than a shadowy figure, she was asleep.
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A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 73
The night out at Le Rabassier and Zodiac nightclub had gone well. Matt and Seth even ran into several wizards who remembered them as local boys who had scored. Mila had gotten on with Seth like they hadn't ever been separated and with Sal like she'd known him for years. Pat's date who had heard about Matt and Seth's good fortune but hadn't ever met them was friendly as well.
At the end of the night, Sal and Seth went back to Pat's house while Pat and his date went to her house. Mila and Matt had already discussed going back to Mila's so that's where they went.
/*/
There really wasn't any awkwardness between Matt and Mila but he was hesitant to make any moves. It had been a long time. Perhaps Mila didn't want to jump right into bed. Perhaps she wanted another drink. Perhaps she…
Mila interrupted Matt's thoughts as she plopped down on the couch beside him.
"A Knut for your thoughts Mr. Lozio."
Matt smiled as he turned to gaze at Mila. "No Knuts Mila just some straight forward thoughts. I want to be with you, but I don't want to push myself on you."
Mila put down the glass she had in her hand before turning to Matt looking directly in his eyes and holding his gaze. "If I didn't want to be with you Matt, I wouldn't have accepted your date and you wouldn't be here. The only thing that would push me away from you at this point is if you told me there is a witch in London who can claim you as her wizard."
Matt turned and began to play with strands of Mila's hair. "There's no witch Mila. I know my past behavior was less than commendable, but I thought we were going to start fresh. No looking back. No recriminations. I fancy you and want to try a relationship. If you're willing, you'll have to trust me. This might be too fast. After all, I just walked back into your life. Let's do this. We'll have a last drink, I'll go back to Jake's and you can have a think on whether you want to….
Mila grabbed Matt by the shoulders and pulled him into a kiss. "You won't be going anywhere except into the bedroom Matt Lozio. Things may be moving fast, but these are things I've longed for even before you left for Milan. Let this be our time. We'll see where it goes from here."
"Done." Matt whispered into the crook of Mila's neck.
Laying her face against Matt's head, Mila whispered more words of encouragement before taking Matt by the hand. "You've never lacked confidence in all the time I've known you. Don't falter now."
Matt stood. "I wasn't even this nervous the first time we were together. I hope you haven't put some spell on me witch."
"Hahaha. If I was going to put a spell on you, it would have been back in 2003. Come on now. I want some of that Lozio dick."
Matt let out a loud laugh. "Do you now? I guess I'm the Lozio who is going to give it to you."
"Good" Mila said as she and the wizard who had almost gotten away headed to her bedroom.
/*/
The two former and now current lovers laid comfortably in each other's arms after sex discussing what came next.
"It's not necessary, but I'd like for us to bring a gift when we visit Hermione and Emilio this evening. Nothing monumental. Just a small token of gratitude."
Mila had a suggestion. "I agree. We've been invited for evening drinks and conversation. Why don't I make a carrot cake? It's quick and tasty."
Leaning over, Matt left a kiss on Mila's temple. "That would be lovely. Even if Hermione and Emilio don't eat it, I'm sure their boy will."
Mila had been surprised when Matt mentioned having an evening with Hermione and Matt, but she was more surprised to find out they had a son. "I'm not sure if you'll consider this prying, but when I visited Milan, I met Hermione and her husband. She and Draco seemed quite happy. However, tonight we will be visiting Hermione, Emilio and their boy. I know how magic works, but…."
Matt let out a very loud chuckle as he squeezed Mila to him. "Hahaha love. Even with magic, Hermione and Emilio couldn't have a three year old together. Emilio and Hermione dated before she moved to Milan and got involved with Draco. After Draco was killed, they got back together. Although Scorpius Malfoy is Hermione and Draco's son, Emilio treats Scorp as his own. The little wizard loves his Emilio."
"Oh my. I do remember hearing about Draco Malfoy's untimely death. Sorry for being so dense. I'm glad we've talked about this up front because I don't want to make some awful faux pas in front of your friends."
"No worries." Matt remarked with a yawn. "Emilio and Hermione are great people. You'll like them. Now if you're finished with this body, I'm going to sleep."
After several seconds, Mila made a cheeky retort. "I'm finished with that body, for now. Tomorrow morning might be a different story. Goodnight Matt."
"Haha. Goodnight sweet Mila. I look forward to morning."
/**/
After having an early, Sunday morning visit with Louis,Emilio Lozier was feeling free as he moved about the kitchen. Not free in the sense of being unencumbered, but free in the sense he and Hermione didn't have to be cautious with their kisses, hugs or touches. No pair of little eyes following their every move. He was looking forward to when they finally moved to 4 Tudor Lane and could be free all the time. After the marriage.
"Hey you. Good morning. Something smells good."
Hermione had grabbed him around the back. With spatula in hand, Emilio did a one hundred eighty degree turn to land a kiss on Hermione's lips.
"Good morning love. I hope you're in the mood for eggs, sausage and toast because that's what your fiance is cooking."
"While you and your wand have outdone yourselves, I'll settle for a bite of toast and some tea. While we eat, you can enlighten me as to whether your Best Man has found his plus one in a witch named Mila."
Setting the toast in front of Hermione, Emilio twisted his wand to summon cups, tea and kettle before taking a seat at the table. Between bites, Emilio advised Hermione he didn't know very much. Matt had mentioned Mila several times in private but not much after he and Kim became serious and never after he got married.
"Ah Kim! Would it be indelicate of me to say she grabbed onto Matt faster than Dumbledore could draw a wand. I do vaguely remember Mila coming to Milan several times before it got awkward. Whatever. That's Matt's business, but I hope they hit it off. He deserves a good witch and you deserve a Best Man with a date."
Sporting a wide grin, Emilio nodded in agreement as he pointed his wand to bring more sausage to his plate. "While my Best Man may be sorted, there are others who need to get themselves sorted as well."
"Others such as?"
"I intend to ask Sal, Seth, Gas and Theo to be Groomsmen as well. Three of the blighters don't have a steady witch."
Hermione stared directly at Emilio. "Careful there Mr. Lozier. You are becoming a Groomzilla. There is nothing in the rules which preclude a wizard from attending the wedding with a casual witch. Everyone isn't committed."
"I'm not sure what Groomzilla means but I think I understand the sentiment. In my defense, I just don't want anything to go wrong. For instance, a chosen wizard moving from one casual witch to the next, or giving her up altogether before the wedding. If that happened, our count would be off."
With visions of Sal, Seth and Theo at the forefront of her mind, Hermione concurred with some reservations. "I understand your concerns but perhaps you should give grown wizards a bit of leeway. They will do what is necessary. And, for your information, a Groomzilla is a wizard who frets over every little thing. I just want you to remember we will be husband and wife at the end of the ceremony no matter what happens."
Emilio moved his head from side to side in the manner of his someday son. "That is my goal Mrs. Hermione. I will take everything else into consideration. The last thing this fiance wants to be is a Groomzilla. Still…."
"No still Emilio. Let's get this show firmly on the road before we start addressing things we aren't sure will happen. I'll text you first thing tomorrow after I've spoken to Grace. If all goes well, you and I will meet with her Wednesday morning. While I'm after you to get your Groomsmen in order, I've been lax in figuring out my Bridesmaids. I plan to ask Seana, Celia, Parvati and Luna. However, I would not be adverse to having Mila as a Bridesmaid if it works out between her and Matt. All is tentative."
"Sounds like a plan although you don't have to invite Celia if you have the slightest reservation."
"I'll ask. All she can say is yes or no love. The downside is we'll probably be stuck with inviting Ron. Speaking of downside, you'll have to try to get along with Harry since Hannah will be my Matron of Honor."
"I believe Harry and I have come to terms. No problem there. Conversely, I don't want Ron Weasley anywhere near us on the biggest day of our lives. Maybe Celia isn't such a good choice. Think about it. In any case, I suggest we both get on with what needs to be done. We'll contact our choices before Wednesday so we'll have something semi firm to present to Grace."
"Hahaha. Semi firm. I like that. Do we still plan to have Matt and Mila in for drinks this evening?"
Emilio gave Hermione a searching look knowing she hadn't been chuffed to end the evening at Lozier Estate early. "That is firm. Matt and Mila will be here about 7:30. Dessert, drinks and conversation only. You won't have to dazzle them with your cooking."
"Alright Mr. Lozier. It will be nice to meet another witch. I think I will have a bit of sausage. All this talking has made me hungry."
With one swift wave of his wand, Emilio has sausages and another piece of toast on Hermione's plate. "There you are. Sausages and toast. I'm thrilled my wife to be asks for so little."
Hermione smiled as she put sausage into her mouth. "What would be more thrilling Mr. Lozier is for you to share some of that Lozier loving with me after I finish this very fine sausage."
Emilio began immediately wildly swinging his wand to clear up the kitchen. "There. Done. Me and my Lozier loving are waiting patiently for you to finish that tiny bit of sausage. It's coming on 11:30. I want my loving before we have to get ready to go get our boy."
As Hermione finished the last small portion of sausage, Emilio cleared away the plate and fork then lifted her from the chair leading her to the bedroom. Hermione grabbed onto Emilio thinking it was such a gift to have private time in the middle of the day.
/*/
Seth was first up at Pat's house Sunday morning and had made himself completely at home buzzing about the kitchen in his boxers putting a breakfast together when Sal entered the room.
"For Merlin's sake Seth. Go put on some clothes. No one wants to see a bloke's dick hanging out. My eyes are burning."
"Really Sal? Just because we are in an unfamiliar house doesn't mean I have to change my ways. Boxers are a perfectly good piece of clothing. They cover what needs to be covered."
Sal sighed. His partner was always going to be a heathen. "Fine Seth. Have it your way. You're a guest in this house. Act like it. I'm sure Pat will be delighted to walk through the door with Lerna on his arm to find a bloke in his skivvies."
"For fucks sake Sal, calm down. I'll go put on some trousers if it will shut that mouth."
"Good." Sal called out to Seth's back. "A shirt or jumper would also be nice."
"Fuck you Sal." Seth called out from the bedroom. "Instead of running that mouth, why don't you start the coffee in case Pat comes through with Lerna on his arm and wants a cup."
Sal lazily swung his wand in the direction of the counter to do as asked. There was a large pot of coffee waiting when Seth returned.
Doing a complete turn when he returned to the kitchen, Seth questioned his partner. "Happy now Maida? Have I brightened your day by putting on clothes?"
"Yes and yes. Thank you for breakfast. This is just how I like my eggs."
Seth laughed out loud. "You are as annoying as hell, but you are the best partner a wizard could ask for. I hope Pat gets home before too late. I don't want to leave before thanking him for his hospitality, but I want to get back to London to check on things."
"Relax Sal. Things are fine. If Pat isn't back by 2:30-3:00, we'll leave a note. Now please stop talking so I can enjoy my breakfast in peace."
Sal only had a few words for Seth. "You're an arse."
"Who's an arse?"
Pat was home without Lerna on his arm.
"Good morning mates. Give me a minute then I'll have some breakfast and a cup of that coffee with you." Pat commented as he headed for his bedroom.
Pat was back five minutes later wearing nothing but a tee shirt and a pair of blue boxer briefs. Seth laughed so hard he nearly choked himself. Sal simply remarked that a wizard could wear what he wanted in his own home which caused Seth to laugh even louder.
"What's the joke?" Pat asked as he filled a plate.
"The joke is that my annoying partner chastised me for walking about in my boxers."
Pat gave Sal a strange look but was too busy tucking in to breakfast to reply. When his mouth was clear he simply explained that walking around in briefs was a privilege he thoroughly enjoyed.
Seth looked over at Sal with a shite eating grin on his face and gave him a cheeky wink.
/*/
The three wizards spent the next several hours discussing their night out, the things Matt, Seth, Pat and Davy used to get up to and Davy and Pat's new business. During a lull in the conversation, Seth asked Pat about Matt and Mila.
Pat held up a hand while shaking his head from side to side. "You know better than to ask me about another bloke's love life. We aren't twelve anymore, and I don't carry tales. What Matt and Mila get up to is their business."
Seth did know better, but he was curious. He backtracked. "Don't get your knickers in a twist mate. I was only inquiring. Matt and Mila will do what Matt and Mila will do. Besides, the only reason you aren't sharing every piece of shite you know is because you want Matt and MCC to assist your company."
A faint blush appeared across Pat's nose. "Yeah, there's that."
All three wizards shared a boisterous laugh before Seth and Pat went back to sharing their outrageous stories.
/*/
At 2:30, Sal suggested to Sal that they get back to London to which Seth concurred telling Pat there were things that needed review before Monday.
"Alright lads. It was fantastic having you here. Feel free to come back whenever you have the chance." Pat offered, extending his hand first to Seth then to Sal. "I'm not sure what Matt has in mind for Belgische Huizen, but he may need me and Davy to come to London to speak with Adam and Richard. Matt and I will have a chat before he leaves. If I do come to London, I expect to be wined and dined British style."
Sal couldn't resist adding his two Knuts worth. "There's no problem there. If it's one thing Adam and Richard are better at than managing accounts, it's having a good time. However, Matt has to invite you first."
"Hahaha. That's true Sal." Pat conceded while clapping Sal on the back. I'm going to get dressed and nip back out for a few minutes. Thanks again for coming. I'll see you both when I see you."
"Thanks mate."
"Thanks Pat."
Sal raised his wand. "Accio bags."
Seth snatched his bag right out of the air then turned to Sal. "Okay partner. Time to get back to business. Portkey Office here we come."
Sal said nothing as he followed Seth out the door.
/*/
The house seemed empty when Matt and Mila came through.
"Where is everyone? I know Sal and Seth probably have gone back to London by now. If Jake is this quiet, he must be sleeping. I'll check his room."
"At this time of day? More than likely his sot arse hasn't made it home from Lerna's yet."
"Perhaps. I'll just go get my bag together and tidy the room up a bit. I don't want Jake tracking me down in London because I left an untidy room. Back in a few."
Mila sat down and immediately picked up the magical photo album Seth, Sal and Pat had been reviewing. "Oh Merlin. We look so young. I didn't even know this photo existed." She said, gazing at the moving images of her and Matt hugged up. Suddenly, she was overcome with emotion. "Please don't muck this up Matt. I don't know what I'll do if I end up on the losing end again."
Mila had just wiped away the one tear that had fallen when Matt came back and plopped down beside her.
"What have you got there? Wow! I haven't seen these photos in ages. We look so young."
When Mila didn't offer any response, Matt turned to look at her. Realizing, whatever thoughts she was having were making her either uncomfortable or unhappy, Matt placed the photo album down on the table and lifted one of Mila's hands to his lips.
"Please stop thinking about the bad bits Mila. If the bloody album makes you uncomfortable, put it away. We've come full circle and have agreed to start over. Let's just see where it goes from here. The only thing that should matter is I'm committed to building a relationship with you."
"And I'm committed to building a relationship with you." Mila replied softly. "You'll just have to forgive my apprehension about going to London. It didn't work out to well the last time I was there."
Wrapping his arms around Mila, Matt chuckled in her ear. "Didn't work out too well for me either. I've left a note for Jake. Let's get to the Portkey Office. I can't wait to show you my lovely suite at The Luxe Hotel."
Fifteen minutes later, they were at the Portkey Office where Matt purchased two round trip tickets to London and back. Twenty minutes after that, Mila and Matt were standing in front of Suite 212, Luxe Hotel. Matt waved his wand and they were in.
"First things first. Hand me your wand love."
Mila handed Matt her wand and watched as he touched her wand point to the door lock. "You may now come and go as you wish. Make yourself at home."
Mila laughed as she raised up on her toes to leave a kiss on Matt's cheek. "I'm a witch Mr. Lozio. I'm quite able to unlock a door without permission, especially some easy hotel door."
"Funny funny. That won't be necessary because you now have permission. It's only 4:30. Shall we send down for early dinner?"
"Yes please. I am a bit hungry."
"I'm going to empty my bag. Menus with ordering instructions are on the counter. I'll have what you're having."
/*/
Dinner arrived before Matt was through doing whatever he was doing in the bedroom.
"Hello! Mr. Lozio. What are you doing in there? The food is here."
"Be there in a moment Mila. I didn't know how much of a tosser I am about keeping things in order. Done now. What are we having?"
"Come out here right now Matt. Even the filthiest wizard wouldn't take that long to clean. We are having steak, potatoes with gravy, mashed and peas. No dessert. We'll have carrot cake with Hermione and Emilio."
"Hermione, Emilio and Scorp." Matt was at the living room opening with a wide grin on his face. "Can't forget the little wizard. I'm sorry I took so long. Dinner sounds delicious. I'll serve. You sit."
Mila sat Matt served and they ate while discussing bits of minutia from then and now.
/*/
Hermione and Emilio had called ahead and were stepping out of the Lozier floo at 1:30. Scorp had come at them at a run.
"Mum. Emilio. Nonna it's mum and Emilio. I think they came to eat dinner and get me."
Scorp hugged Hermione around the knees before raising his arms to Emilio. Emilio lifted Scorp telling him he was getting big. Hermione and Emilio greeted Ilaria and Emiliano with Emiliano griping that he was always last to be greeted. However, after a quick peck on the cheek from Hermione and a handshake from Emilio, he settled right down.
Scorp led Hermione to the kitchen. "Nonna is making a lovely pork roast especially for us. She even put berries in the sauce."
Emilio stepped in to calm Scorp down taking him by the hand. "Let us wizards go into the den to let our witches have some time together. They might have important things to discuss."
Scorp was surprised. "Do you mean discuss me? I'm important."
Emiliano and Emilio glanced at each other. Their young wizard didn't want to be left out of anything.
Emilio fielded Scorp's question. "While you are very important, sometimes our witches like to discuss lady things. It's our job to ensure they have their time."
"Okay Emilio, okay. We have to let Nonna and mum have their time. And Celia. She's coming to have lady talk too. Right Nonno?"
Emilio shifted in the chair hoping he wouldn't have to put up with Ron Weasley.
Emiliano nodded at Scorp. "Right in one young wizard. Celia will be here shortly to see us then have lady talk with Nonna and Hermione.
Scorp glanced at Emilio nodding his head up and down. He was so smart.
/*/
After having a quick cup of tea, Hermione and Ilaria went to Ilaria's sitting room where they closed and locked the door. It was time to discuss wedding details.
Ilaria was excited. Hermione had mentioned wearing her wedding dress as is. Such a compliment. "I'm thrilled to know you'll be wearing my, our dress in the original color. Have you found a dressmaker to make the alterations?"
Hermione smiled at her mother-in-law to be. The witch seemed more excited than she. "Actually, I haven't been looking. I have two sets of eyes and ears that I'd rather not see or hear anything. Nonna Maida is looking around Milan. I hope to hear something soon. I'm hoping you'll allow me to try the dress on today so we can make notes on just what alterations I want."
"Of course Hermione. Here we go." Ilaria replied, raising her wand pointing it at a small cabinet. A small packet came flying across the room coming to a stop in front of Ilaria who immediately returned the packet to size and removed the dress.
Hermione was immediately on her feet. The gown was beautiful as she remembered. "Oh my Ilaria. I get dry mouth every time I see the dress. I am such a lucky witch."
"Emiliano and I are the lucky ones to have you and Scorp marrying into our family."
Hermione was out of her clothes and into the dress in two seconds flat. Two seconds after that she began speaking. "I am enamored of the slim fit as well as the stand up beaded collar. The only two adjustments will be additional beading and full length, overly long sleeves ending in a point with beading down the entire arm. I know I seem to be going bead crazy, but I'd like the beading to come even farther down the dress. The only addition, if it can be managed, is a half veil or veil cap. Beaded of course.
Ilaria had pulled out the notebook and hastily began to memorialize all of Hermione's words. As she listened to Hermione speak, Ilaria was humming inside. Hermione Granger was going to be one gorgeous bride. Ilaria looked up when she realized Hermione had stopped speaking.
"What is it dear? Do you want to check over what I've written? I believe I have it all down….."
Ilaria was still speaking when Hermione pulled her into a tight hug. "You are going to be an amazing mother-in-law. I'm so thankful for your graciousness."
"Stop it or you're going to have me sobbing like a baby. It will always be my pleasure to help in any way I can. We have our notes. You might want to put the dress away for the moment. Celia will be turning up any minute. I love my daughter, but she is as nosy and loose lipped as her father."
Hermione laughed as she stepped out of the dress. "And her brother. Shall we replicate the notes? I'll take one with me to discuss with Carmela and you keep one here."
"That's fine Hermione. Here's your copy. I'll tuck mine away with the dress. We have made great progress. We will now go check on dinner and our wizards."
"Hahaha. Scorp is probably standing outside with his ear to the door. Let's go see about our boy.
/*/
Scorp wasn't standing with his ear to the door, but he was talking the ear off Celia who had obviously arrived while she and Ilaria were in the sitting room.
"Hello Hermione. Hello mum. Scorp was regaling me with everything he knows and some he made up I suspect. How's everything? Do you need any help that doesn't involve cooking?"
"Hello Celia. Nice to see you. Everything is fine on my end."
"Hello sweetie. I'm glad you could make it. If you want to make a green salad for the table, I'd be grateful. Other than that, the dinner is cooking itself. Is Ron here with you?"
Celia answered after a quick glance in Hermione's direction. "Yes mum. Ron is in with daddy and Emilio. We're a couple. He goes where I go. He and I have come to terms about family and such. He's seen the error of his ways and will act appropriately. I promise."
Sure, sure thought Hermione as her breath caught in her throat. Here's hoping Ron hasn't forgotten he's supposed to act appropriately because if he has, Emilio will set him straight without hesitation.
/*/
When Ilaria stepped into the kitchen to check the roast, Celia took the minute to speak to Hermione. "Mother said you specially asked to see me. If it's about Marissa, I haven't spoken to her in ages. I think she won't be interfering with you and Emilio anymore."
Hermione smiled at Celia's nervousness, but answered in a soft, even voice. "I did ask to see you Celia, but it has nothing to do with Marissa. I want to ask a question. I'll preface it by saying there'll be no hard feelings if you decline."
Celia was puzzled, but assured Hermione she would help out where she could.
"Good. Would you be a Bridesmaid in mine and Emilio's wedding?"
Celia let out a squeal as she pulled Hermione into a hug then stepped back apologizing all over the place. "Sorry, sorry, sorry to be so demonstrative, but this is amazing. Yes, I would like to be in your wedding. Does Emilio know you are asking me? Is Ron invited?"
Hermione took Celia by the arm and led her to Ilaria's sitting room where she closed the door. "Sorry to drag you in here Celia, but I'd like to keep some things quiet for now. The answer to your questions is yes and yes. Yes, Emilio knows I'm inviting you. Yes, Ron is invited. I've written down the date and tentative details. I'll ring or text you after Emilio and I meet with our Wedding Planner to share exact details. Thank you for the hugs and for accepting my invitation. We'll talk soon."
"Merciful Merlin. I'm going to be a Bridesmaid. I'll be the best Bridesmaid you can imagine. I promise you won't regret the invitation. Am I allowed to mention it to mum, dad and Ron?"
"I suggest you let Ron know first. After that, you can share with Emiliano and Ilaria. You have been charged with green salad duty. We'd better get back to the kitchen."
"You're right. Mother probably thinks I've done a bunk."
/*/
Although Celia had seemed quite genuine when she explained how Ron had changed and promised to act appropriately, she went to the den to see for herself. Expecting the worse, Hermione was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere in the room. There wasn't any eye rolling, any harsh words, any heavy breathing, nothing. She was pleased and became more pleased when Ron stood to greet her in a very non Weasley manner.
"Hello Hermione. Nice to see you."
Emilio glanced at her with raised eyebrows as if he couldn't believe what was happening.
"Hello Ron. It's nice to see you as well."
Scorp who was sitting quietly between Emilio and Emiliano had to get his word in. "Ron likes me now."
Every adult in the room blushed over Scorp's words, but the young wizard hadn't finished.
"Are you finished having lady talks? We're still having wizard talks but you can listen. Right Nonno? Right Emilio? Mum can listen if she wants."
Emilio answered for all the wizards. "Of course mum can have a listen, but she might have other things to do."
"Okay Emilio, okay. Mum might have to see about the dinner."
Hermione shook her head in wonder. Would her son ever run out of things to say? She thought not. However, dinner was almost ready. It was time for him to have a wash up and a pee. "Excuse yourself Scorp. It's almost time for dinner. We need to wash your face and hands."
"Okay mum. I need to have a pee too." Scorp explained as he got up off the couch. I need to do three things. It's almost time for dinner."
A slight sigh escaped Hermione. It was so obvious. Dumbledore junior was always going to try to have the last word.