Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 79
Before apparating back to the house, Hermione and Emilio took a few seconds to whisper their hopes and dreams. It was a very short conversation because Hermione said she was starving. However, it was an extremely happy couple that landed in the apparition area of Malfoy Estate.
/*/
As soon as he heard the sound of someone coming in, Scorp was up in a flash. "Nonna and Nonno it's mum and Emilio back from their appointment. Did you marry? Are we moving to the new house? Can I call Emilio…"
Hermione stepped in before Scorp could finish his sentence. "That's enough Scorpius Malfoy. I have spoken to you several times about commenting on adult matters. Emilio and I will let you know about certain things at the appropriate time."
Everybody went quiet for several seconds. No one wanted to see Scorp get a scolding. However, Emilio set everything right with a few words. "How about this? We wizards should have a short, private discussion in the study."
"Is Nonno coming?"
"No Scorp. This discussion is between a wizard and his someday son."
Scorp sighed. He had made his mum cross. He hoped Emilio wasn't going to be cross with him too. Crissy was right. Sometimes he talked too much.
/*/
The talk hadn't been bad at all. Emilio only said what Crissy told him all that time. He talked too much and spoke out at the wrong times. All he had to do was stop commenting on adult things. He could do that, but sometimes he got so happy he forgot the rules. It was all okay because Emilio was happy with him. It was even better when he got back to the living room and his mum was happy with him as well. Everybody was happy with him. Perhaps he'd be allowed two toasted cheese sandwiches for lunch.
/
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 80
Even though he was due back at MCC, Emilio spent a short bit of time with the family discussing their upcoming tour of 2 Tudor Lane. To Scorp's delight, Emilio pulled out his wand and pointed it towards the kitchen calling out, tea service and scones. Scorp let out an involuntary giggle. Normally, it was mum who did the magic. For several seconds, he debated on saying anything but decided it would alright because it wasn't grown up talk.
"You used your wand Emilio. I like when you use your wand. A wand is going to choose me when I'm eleven. Right mum?"
Hermione nodded. "Yes love. All magical children receive a wand at eleven years old."
"When I get my wand, I'll help with the Summoning and the cooking so Emilio can give you kisses in your private rooms."
From the second the last word left his mouth, Scorp realized by the looks on his mum and Emilio's faces he'd stepped out of line once again. Both Emilio and Hermione spoke at the same time. However, much to Scorp's surprise neither spoke angrily. Hermione directed her comments to Ilaria and Emiliano while Emilio addressed Scorp. Hermione offered an explanation but Emiliano had come to the rescue.
Unsuccessfully trying to hide a smile, Emiliano spoke. "There's no need for an explanation Hermione. If we are fortunate enough to purchase the home, you may be sure there will be at least one private room. Ilaria insists on it."
Ilaria smiled as she patted her husband on the hand. Hermione managed a small smile as well. Emilio not so much. He had just spoken to Scorp about speaking out of turn. It was embarrassing for a child to be spewing personal, family matters. His mother and father knew he and Hermione were intimate but no one wanted it brought up in company. Even though he was upset, the only thing he said was, it's challenging to have a someday son who doesn't recognize filters no matter how many times he's been cautioned.
Scorp recognized that he'd made Emilio unhappy and kept his eyes on the floor.
Although Hermione was slightly embarrassed, she realized Emiliano and Ilaria had taken the remarks with a good spirit. Glancing at Emilio, she closed the subject and got onto another.
"It's almost lunch time. May I request your assistance Ilaria? We need to feed our wizards before Emilio has to leave."
Rising from the chair, Ilaria went to follow Hermione to the kitchen but Emilio stood as well leaving a quick kiss on Hermione's forehead.
"I appreciate your thoughtfulness Mrs. Hermione, but the time has come and gone for me to be back at work. Good luck with the tour mother, father. I hope it appeals to you. I'll see you all for dinner."
As Emilio turned towards the apparition area, Emiliano stood and followed his son. "A minute son."
Emilio turned back. "Yes father?"
Looking back over his shoulder to be sure neither Ilaria nor Hermione were in listening distance, Emiliano shared his thoughts. "I realize you are a grown wizard who doesn't need any interference from his father. However, I would be remiss if I didn't tell you to remain calm in situations of this sort. You and Hermione have a brilliant young son who will sometimes be a challenge, but you both are up to it. Don't be an Emiliano Lozier."
Emilio smiled. "Thank you for your counsel father, but I know what I have. As far as turning into an Emiliano Lozier, that will never happen. My family means too much to me. I'll see you and mother after work."
Emiliano remained in the apparition area for another minute digesting what Emilio had said. His family means too much to him. Ilaria, Emilio and Celia meant a lot to him but he had been too much of a bastard to admit it. He had been too busy chasing power, money and influence. He wasn't that bastard anymore. He loved his family and his family to be. Perhaps there were things he could learn from Emilio and Scorp. If so, he would gladly take the instruction.
Emiliano returned to the living room to find Scorp sitting quietly on the couch. When he sat down beside Scorp, the young wizard leaned against his arm and began to sob softly.
"I don't like it when Emilio gets quiet to me. He doesn't like me today." Scorp whimpered.
Emiliano spoke softly as he turned so he was looking at Scorp. "That's terrible thing to say Scorp. You are his someday son. Emilio loves you. Your mum would not be happy to hear those words coming out of your mouth. Just remember, it is a father's job to correct his boy so he'll grow up to be a stand up, righteous wizard."
Hermione chose that moment to step into the living room to call lunch. However, when she saw Scorp's red eyes, she asked what was going on.
"I was sad mum but Nonno made me happy again."
Glancing at Emiliano, Hermione waited for him to say something. He didn't fail her. "Nothing monumental Hermione. Our little wizard thought Emilio didn't like him much today for things spoken. I set him straight."
Hermione sat on the other side of Scorp. "Your lunch is on the table. Why don't you eat with Ilaria. I want to have a few words with my son. We'll be right there."
Emiliano rose. "Of course Hermione."
Grabbing Scorp up in a hug, Hermione kissed him all over his face until he started giggling. When Scorp stopped giggling, not wanting to belabor the point, Hermione simply told him Emilio would be hurt if he ever heard his someday son say those words. "Emilio loves you as much as he loves me. Sometimes a family has to learn as they go. We are still learning." Pulling out her wand, Hermione did a quick refresh on Scorp's face. "Come on. It's time for lunch."
"I like it when you and Emilio use your wand. Emilio likes me and loves me too. I'm hungry."
Hermione sighed. No matter how complicated it seemed they would have to keep reminding Scorp about repeating words if he didn't understand the content or context. "You know what love. Go ahead to the kitchen. Mum has to send a quick text to Emilio."
"Okay mum, okay. I'll have lunch with Nonno and Nonna. Tell Emilio I love him too."
Hermione sent the text and was at the table within five minutes.
/*/
Emilio was back at MCC but his mind was still at Malfoy Estate. He had almost let a turn of temper spoil a wonderful morning. He was ashamed of himself. How would he be able to teach a son if he couldn't control himself? He sighed. He had gotten upset because Scorp had spoken out of turn once again. Yet, deep down he knew it was more about being embarrassed in front of his parents. Leaning back in the chair staring at the documents in front of him, he heard Emiliano's words. A father who hadn't ever been a proper father had told him what was what.
"He was correct. Raising a brilliant young wizard would be a challenge."
"Hello Emilio." Gas was in the doorway. "Talking to yourself then? Our CEO hasn't been gone a full day and the COO has gone round the bend."
Pulling himself up straight, Emilio chuckled. "Your COO has not gone round the bend. He simply likes the answers he gets when he talks to himself. What can I do for you?"
"I don't need anything. I'm simply here to hear about the appointment. Are wedding details now in full swing?"
"They are. I…"
Ping ping.
"Excuse me Gas. This text is from Hermione. I'll find you after I find out what my fiancee needs."
"No need. I was just nosing. See you later."
Emilio read the text. His fiancee understood him better than he understood himself. She loved him. Scorp loved him. Emiliano and Ilaria loved him. The house elves loved him. Last but not least, Louis loved him. He laughed out loud as he typed the response that it felt good to be loved. Not one to be frivolous when texting, this time he added a heart and a grinning face emoji.
/*/
At 2:45, Emiliano and Ilaria prepared to go meet Theo. Hermione smiled when Emiliano had to ask Ilaria to stop her chattering or she'd do nothing more than drive Theo Nott away.
"I'm not chattering Em. I'm excited. Please allow me that."
Putting his arm around Ilaria, Emiliano admitted he was excited as well but wouldn't be trying to out talk everyone else in the room.
Hermione chuckled while giving each a quick hug. "You'll be fine. It's only a house tour. You might get there and decide you don't like it and that will be that."
Ilaria wasn't having that kind of talk. "Please Hermione. My mind is set. Even if 2 Tudor Lane doesn't have a roof, we are going to purchase the home."
Emiliano shrugged at Hermione while making a small joke. "I do believe my wife has her mind made up."
Ilaria gave him a glare and he cleared up any misconception.
"As do I. I truly look forward to living close to the new Lozier family." Reaching out, Emiliano pulled Ilaria to him. "Many thanks to you and Emilio for the use of this portkey Hermione. Come Ilaria. Time is growing short."
/*/
After Emiliano and Ilaria left, Hermione sat down and put her feet up glad Scorp was napping. Had he been awake, she would probably have had to peel him off his Nonno and Nonna. Being a young wizard didn't stop him from trying to be a know-it-all about everything, Tudor Lane and Theo Nott included. Leaning her head back against the couch, Hermione closed her eyes.
After what seemed like only a few minutes, Hermione's eyes flew open as she heard Scorp calling out to her. Her Wonder Witch Watch read 3:30. She had slept for thirty minutes in the middle of the day.
"Mum. I've finished my nap. Dusty said it is time for me to be getting up. Mum."
Hermione rose from the couch and walked over to the bottom of the stairs. "I hear you love. Come on down. Be careful on the stairs. Thank you Dusty for getting our boy up."
"You welcome Mrs. Hermione. It's almost dinner time."
Dusty's words were true but a bit annoying. It was almost time to start dinner and she had let her son oversleep. "Just help Scorp down the stairs please. I'll take care of the rest."
Hermione could hear Crissy whispering furiously. Taking Dusty to task no doubt.
"Scorp coming right now Mrs." Crissy remarked as she walked behind Scorp.
"Yes mum, I'm coming. Crissy is seeing to me because Dusty talks too much."
Hermione had to smile. Crissy was like a little, old mother elf for which she was grateful. Crissy left Scorp at the bottom of the stairs without another word. Grabbing Scorp up in a big hug, Hermione kissed him all over his face but had to put the wriggling mass of young wizard down.
"You are getting so big. Pretty soon, only Emilio will be able to lift you."
Suddenly striking a thoughtful pose, Scorp laid his head against her arm. "It's hard being a little wizard. Sometimes I don't know what I can't talk about."
Hermione knew what Scorp meant. However, she was not going to speak about it until Emilio could be present. Scorp had made an embarrassing statement, but the someday father would have to learn sometimes shite happens and move on from there.
Taking Scorp by the hand, Hermione took him into the telly room. "You are a young wizard who is growing and learning. When Emilio or I see something that needs correcting, we'll correct you. No worries. There's nothing that can't be fixed. Watch a bit of Clifford until Nonna and Nonna return to tell us all about the house."
"Yes mum. Nonna and Nonna are going to live near us. They'll probably want me to visit all the time."
"Yes probably Scorp. We won't worry about that now. Watch telly. I'm going to sort out dinner."
"Okay mum. I'll watch Clifford but please call me when my Nonna and Nonna get back."
Hermione didn't reply knowing the conversation could go on indefinitely if she let it.
/*/
At 4:15, an exuberant Emiliano and Ilaria came through the front door raving about the house.
"We've done it Hermione. Theo has the paperwork all sorted. We've purchased 2 Tudor Lane. He promised to bring the keys and cards to us after it all goes through Gringotts." Gushed Ilaria while Emiliano stood by beaming. He may not have been chuffed in the beginning but now that it was done he was as excited as Ilaria.
"It is a lovely house. Even though it has been described as the smallest of the three homes, it is not small." Emiliano added. If it isn't too late when Theo drops off the keys, perhaps you, Emilio and Scorp will come see our new home."
Hermione gave Emiliano and Ilaria a quick hug before softly cautioning them about a visit to the house. "Emilio has had a full day. He might want dinner and some relaxation. Perhaps we can tour your new home another day."
Emiliano hesitated. "Of course. I'm beginning to sound like Scorp. There'll be many chances for you all to see it as Ilaria is already talking about decorating and what she'll be shipping from Pavia."
"Excellent. Let me get Scorp so he can inundate you with any question that crosses his mind. I'll be right back.
And she was with Scorp in tow.
"Nonna, Nonno you're back. Is Emilio here too? We can talk about your new house."
The someday grandfather spoke up. "No Scorp. Emilio isn't here. He's still at work. As far as the new house goes, perhaps we'll share some things after dinner. Right now, you may go back and watch telly until dinner is called. Okay?"
Scorp glanced from Ilaria to Hermione. When neither of the witches disputed Emiliano, he nodded. "Okay Nonno, okay but I want to say hi to Emilio when he comes home."
"That's fine young wizard. Mum will be sure to call you when Emilio arrives."
Hermione gave Emiliano a smile and a nod as she mouthed thank you before following Scorp to the telly room. A firm someday father and grandfather was just what an inquisitive boy needed to help him along.
/*/
After returning Hermione's text, Emilio headed to Gas' office which was empty. Doubling back, he found Gas, Nicholas, and Ezra on a conference call with Matt.
"Our COO has just joined us Matt."
Good afternoon Emilio. Adam and Richard are here as well.
"Good morning gentlemen. How are we looking?"
Matt turned the conversation over to Adam and Richard. I'll let them explain. Take notes Nicholas and Ezra.
"Yes sir."
"Of course boss."
For the next twenty minutes, Adam and Richard explained what they'd like to see done accompanied by names, type of company, expected results and expected revenues while Gas sat there beaming at the brilliance of his charges.
When Matt came back into the conversation, Emilio and Gas grinned at each other. Their CEO was enthused.
Ezra, Nicholas, you have all the information you need. While Adam and Richard are here getting acquainted with officers, leaders and staff, I want information on all the companies. From what I'm reading, these four or five companies seem like worthy acquisitions. However, basic looks can be deceiving. I want in-depth information and a synopsis of why we should or should not take them on as clients. Hand off what needs to be handed off. I want your full attention on this. Gas, Emilio, depending on the information I receive, I may be here for a few days. It may not become necessary, but if it does, I'd like one of you to portkey here to Belgium. Decide between you.
Silence and foot shuffling.
Ezra, Nicholas, you are excused. Get to work.
"Alright Matt. We're on it."
Now that we have the room to ourselves wizards, let me say you may remove the frowns from your faces, but don't make me choose. Which of you will be backing me up?
Emilio spoke. "Count me in Matt. When do you want me there?"
Good man Emilio. For the moment, I'm not sure I'll need an extra. I just want to be prepared. I'll know more after I receive the reports from Nicholas and Ezra. I realize certain situations so I will only call on you if I'm in dire need.
"No need to belabor the point Matt. I'll make myself available if you need me. Let me know. Right now there are matters that need my review. I'll speak to you later."
Alright Emilio. I have to go as well. Speak to you later Gas.
"Alright Matt."
/*/
Gas remained in the conference room chastising himself for not stepping up.
Emilio sat in his office aggravated things might come down to him going to Belgium.
Matt sat in the Hotel van Cleef Business Center wondering why he'd made the statement.
Five minutes later, all three wizards took a breath and got on with their day.
/*/
Tuesday morning, with nothing more to do at the moment, Sal and Seth had decided to pay quick visits to a few of their satellites to see if there was something they could incorporate into SSE London. They would each take two offices, make notes then meet back at The Luxe Friday morning. Having been partners for so long, both wizards knew exactly what they were looking for. The satellites were flourishing but didn't offer anything that could be recycled into SSE London.
By Wednesday afternoon, after a dozen text messages between them, Sal and Seth agreed to be back at The Luxe by Thursday evening to begin discussions regarding staff, staff requirements and the all important applicants. It had become a running joke between them that there wasn't really a decision to be made because the decision had been made. Theo Nott and The Devlin Group were the clear winners. All that was left was to get signatures on contracts and send out rejection letters to the rest.
Sal wanted to insert a codicil: if any of the runners up wanted to participate, and Theo and Andrew Devlin agreed, it could be added to the contract. However, Seth had strongly disagreed and the suggestion had become a crumpled piece of paper in the bin.
/*/
Back in his office, a decidedly upset Emilio was mumbling about how a day that had started out on such a positive note could devolve so rapidly. He was banging things about like some petulant child when there was a knock on his office door.
"Enter please."
Since Emilio didn't have charms up, Ezra who had heard the mumbling gingerly entered the office. "Good afternoon Emilio. I'd like a moment of your time."
Emilio, who felt a bit foolish realizing his tantrum may have been overheard welcomed Ezra in "Come in and have a seat. What can I do for you Ezra?"
"Actually sir, I'm thinking it's what I can do for you. Gas mentioned you might be going to Belgium to work on the details of the tentative new client accounts. Nicholas and I have researched the five companies and forwarded the information to Matt. Although I haven't been asked, I would love to be part of the team working in Belgium. Knowing you have quite a bit on your plate, personal and business wise, long story short. I'd like to go in your place."
Emilio smiled at Ezra. Even though Ezra going to Belgium instead of himself was highly unlikely, Emilio was pleased with the suggestion. "While I appreciate your gesture, I believe Matt wants an additional Officer in Belgium. I've accepted Matt's terms so I'll be going. Besides, MCC can't afford to have three fifths of the FF away from London at the same time."
Ezra stood. "It was just a thought sir. Thank you for your time."
Emilio stood extending his hand. "If or when we take on new Belgian clients, I can put a word in Matt's ear that you are interested in participating. Can't hurt."
The often staid Ezra chuckled. "No sir. Can't hurt."
"Get all your clients and projects in order. Just in case."
Ezra chuckled even louder. "My projects and clients are always in order. Just in case."
Matt sat back down at his desk in a much better mood.
/*/
Hermione and Ilaria were just putting the finishing touches on dinner when they heard the soft sound of someone apparating in. They weren't the only ones who heard the sound.
"Mum, Nonna. I think I hear Emilio. He's home from work. Hi Emilio. Is that you?"
Emilio came through grinning. "Hello Mrs. Hermione, mother. My someday son most certainly recognizes my footsteps. Yes Scorp. Emilio Lozier is home for dinner."
Emiliano came out of the den to greet Emilio as well. "Good afternoon son. The family is all here."
"Yup Nonno. The family is all here except for…."
Hermione cut across Scorp before he could run down the heritage line. "We are all here. Dinner will be on the table very soon. Ilaria and I think our wizards should sit and relax for a few minutes."
Emilio winked at her before suggesting the wizards watch a few minutes of telly. Scorp did his usual glance among the adults when he wasn't sure of something. His mum was smiling. Emilio was smiling. Everyone was smiling. A few minutes of telly was okay.
Holding out a hand to Emilio and Emiliano, Scorp gave instructions. "Yes. Come on Emilio and Nonno. We can watch a bit of telly until the meatloaf is done. I love meatloaf. Clifford has finished but Thomas and Friends are on."
The two grown wizards shrugged in resignation as they let themselves be dragged to the telly room.
/*/
After the cream cake remains were cleared away, Scorp was allowed his time with Emilio, his Nonno and Nonna. Once he was down for the night, the adults discussed the new house, the appointment with the wedding planner and several other items of interest. Emilio had squeezed Hermione's hand when Emiliano joked with Ilaria about how fast she could get her belongings from Lombardy to London. Ilaria took it in good fun reminding Emiliano he would be right there helping her.
"Very true love. I'll have us moved in by Friday."
Everyone laughed.
Emilio could help the feeling of warmth that ran through his body as looked around at his family. This was a dream come true which would be even better when he married his fiancee and fiance. When he automatically began running his fingers up and down Hermione's arm, Emiliano stood.
"Come Ilaria. It's time we got back to Lozier Estate, Pavia."
Ilaria stood as well. "Alright love. It's a bit late tonight, but after your club date we will be discussing furniture, colors and patterns. Thank you for having us Hermione, Emilio. I've enjoyed myself immensely."
Emiliano nodded. "We've enjoyed ourselves immensely. Hermione, you and I might be making another trip to the Ministry. It would be nice to have a floo connection from Lombardy to the new home so we won't have to be traipsing through your living room."
Hermione hugged her in-laws to be telling them it was no bother even if they wanted to traipse through every day of the week. Emilio hugged his mother and shook hands with his father as he echoed Hermione confirming it wouldn't be a bother at all.
Emilio set the path to Lombardy and Emiliano and Ilaria were gone.
Wrapping his arms around Hermione, Emilio whispered in her ear. "You have not only given me my heart's desire you have also turned turned my family into a loving group of people. I am grateful. We missed our cuddles last night. I'm hoping you will stay awake long enough for me to make it up to you."
Twisting around, Hermione kissed Emilio on the mouth. "I'm embarrassed. It wasn't my intention to miss out on your cuddles. I took a tonic this afternoon to be sure I had enough strength to remain awake this evening. Falling asleep in the middle of the afternoon is not very appealing."
Emilio heard what Hermione said but it didn't sink in because his mind was on being with his witch. However, as they laid snuggled up after sex, he wondered if his fiancee had been serious because falling asleep in the middle of the afternoon really wasn't appealing. He made a mental note to have a discussion with Hermione about her health. Perhaps the poisoned hole Kim had made in her chest was causing problems. He would insist Hermione get herself checked out.
Turning on his side, Emilio gazed at his first and last true love. He would kill himself…. No, he wouldn't kill himself. He'd stay alive to take care of his someday son. Pulling Hermione closer, he closed his eyes wishing the bullshite thoughts away.
/*/
Harry was staring and it was annoying Hannah.
"You're staring Harry. Do I have food hanging from my mouth? Is there something on your mind?"
"I'm not staring love. I'm wondering."
"Well your wondering is annoying." Hannah replied, lifting her wand to summon a cool drink. "Don't you have some Auror rules or something to look over?"
Harry laughed as he laid his head in Hannah's non existent lap and kissed her stomach. "It's not my intention to upset the witch who is carrying my progeny."
"My point exactly. When you annoy me, you annoy your progeny so knock off the staring and wondering."
Harry sat back up. He really was wondering about something but he didn't want to bring it up because he might not like the answer. However,…. "Alright, here it is. Is everything alright between you and Hermione? Almost every day for the last three years you have visited or at least mentioned your sister witch once a day, but for the last week it's been crickets. That doesn't bode well for a bride and her Matron of Honor. What's up?"
Hannah paused for several seconds then responded in a listless voice. "There's nothing wrong Harry. I'm just giving Hermione some space."
Harry whipped his head around. Giving Hermione some space. That didn't sound right at all. For several seconds, Harry was fearful it had something to do with him, but Hannah elaborated.
"I made a mistake and Hermione called me on it. My feelings were hurt so I decided to put some space between us for a bit. Nothing monumental."
"Harry questioned Hannah's response. "Nothing monumental? You've been walking around with your head hanging down for days. To me that monumental. Just what was the mistake? Ate one too many of her sprouts?"
Hannah turned to Harry with a sad smile and trembling lips. "No. At one time or another, I've eaten all her dinner vegetables. I spoke out of turn in front of young Scorpius and he repeated my words to his mum."
Harry laughed. "How bad could that be? What did you say?"
"I need to rest my tired arse."
Harry laughed again until he realized what Hannah meant. "Scorp repeated it to Hermione?"
"Yes love. He repeated it to her in some form or another then ratted me out when Hermione scolded him. I tried to joke it away but Hermione was serious. There you have it. Hermione hasn't even called me. I don't know what else to do."
Pregnancy must be burning up all my wife's brain cells. She's fretting and making herself unhappy because of words with her best witch. "Here's a thought love. Tomorrow you go over to Malfoy Estate like you normally would and scarf down her beets or something. If she laughs, you're home free. If she boots you from the house, she's still upset. Anything is better than you moping around the house. My bet is she'll laugh, hug you then scold you for being a nutter. Case closed."
Hannah laid her head on Harry's shoulder. "So, the all knowing Harry Potter is giving me advice after he nearly got himself kicked out of his sister's life forever. I'll run right over."
"Hannah!"
"Alright love. Tomorrow I'll go visit my best witch. If you come home to find a sobbing, hyperventilating wife, it will be your fault."
"Sounds fair love. I'm going up to bed. Come if you must."
Grabbing onto Harry, Hannah politely told him she wanted to cum as well. Harry grinned telling her that wasn't what he meant but could live with her intention. His next words got him a nice cuff across the arm.
"Shall I carry you or will you waddle?"
Hannah had two last words on the matter. "Nice Potter."
Harry shrugged. He was only speaking the truth.
/**/
If Hermione thought she was tired on Tuesday, she was almost lethargic by Thursday evening. When Emilio arrived from work and found Hermione stretched out on the couch, he had immediately cast the Rennervate spell which woke her right up.
"Hello love. Have you stopped in to have lunch with your fiancee and fiance? Lunch will be a cold chicken sandwich with bacon and lettuce."
Emilio was totally confused. Hermione was talking as though lunch was a minute away.
Just then, Scorp came running out of the telly room. "Hi Emilio. Mum is tired. May I have celery and cucumbers for lunch?"
Emilio was now taken aback on multiple fronts. His witch who had been dead sleep in the middle of the afternoon was now talking about fixing lunch, and Scorp was asking about the very same lunch at 6:00 pm. Something was not right and he was going to get to the bottom of it no matter how much Hermione protested.
Emilio pulled his wand and did a quick assessment of Hermione. Nothing showed out of place. However, it seemed Scorp hadn't had anything to eat since breakfast if he'd had breakfast, so that was his priority. Reaching out his hand to Scorp, Emilio led him to the kitchen where he and his wand made a passable meal of the cold chicken, a few chips, and celery and cucumber.
"Thank you Emilio. I really like it when you use your wand. I was hungry. May I have some juice too?"
Emilio was speechless and poured the juice without saying a word. Before going to see about Hermione, he left a few words with Scorp. "Eat slowly little man. I wouldn't like it if you choked yourself. I'm going to speak to mum."
"Okay Emilio, okay."
/*/
Hermione, who was just coming out of the bathroom walked over and wrapped her arms around Emilio's waist. "You're becoming very lax with your allotments Mr. Lozier. I'll take a few kisses, if you don't mind."
Emilio would never refuse Hermione a kiss. Leaning down, he kissed her lips then pulled back to look in her eyes. "I'm an extremely strong wizard Hermione but you are scaring me right now."
"Scaring you, how so?"
"Let me ask you this. What time do you think it is?"
"That's a silly question love." Lifting her wrist, Hermione glanced at her Wonder Witch Watch before looking back at Emilio. "My watch reads 6:15 but that's not possible. I was feeling a bit tired so I closed my eyes for a few minutes. That was at 11:30 this morning." Jumping up, she began to panic. "Oh Merlin! Where's Scorp? I didn't set any orders with Crissy or Dusty. He hasn't had a morsel since 8:30 this morning. What sorcery is this?"
It wasn't humorous but Emilio had to smile. The words what sorcery is this brought a smile to his face. Hermione sounded like some Hogwarts Second Year who was learning spells for the first time. However, it was time to get to the bottom of whatever was going on. "I fixed a small meal for Scorp. He's eating now. What I need to know is why are you falling asleep at the drop of a hat and neglecting our son in the bargain?"
Hermione acknowledged that she was going through a strange sleeping pattern but it became a battle when Emilio accused her of neglecting Scorp. "Watch your words Mr. Lozier. I have never neglected Scorp and never will."
Emilio was becoming frustrated. He was trying to sort things out but Hermione was focusing on words. Perhaps neglect was too strong a word, but it was the truth. Leaving a young wizard to fend for himself while she slept the day away was neglect. "Let me rephrase Mrs. Hermione. I'm uncomfortable not knowing why Scorp hasn't eaten since this morning. I'd like you to get checked out at St Mungo's. Perhaps this is some after effect of the poisoning. It could be dangerous."
Hermione was still in fight mode. "I sleep a little too much and suddenly I'm an unfit mother who sits and eats bonbons while her child is starving. I don't need St Mungo's and I certainly don't need you taking me to task. To ease your mind I will speak with Crissy, Dusty and Embers to make sure Scorp is fed if I happen to fall down on my motherly duties. If you'll excuse me."
Emilio stood and called out to Hermione. "Don't do this love. I'm simply trying to get things sorted."
"If there are things that need sorting, I'll see to them. No need for you to worry."
Emilio had tried to hold his temper, but Hermione was being unreasonable. He had thoughts of stunning her and dragging her arse to St Mungo's. However, that thought disappeared as suddenly as it had come. Drag his already irritated witch to St Mungo's, he thought not. That effort might end their relationship for good. Instead, he summoned a Guinness then sat down to wait for his witch.
/*/
When Hermione came back downstairs, she went directly to the kitchen without saying a word to Emilio. Using his wand to send the empty Guinness bottle to the bin, Emilio made a decision. Tonight might be the night to give Hermione enough space to calm down. He entered the kitchen without showing the turmoil he and Hermione were going through at the moment. "I see you've finished little man. Well done. I'm going to get over to the Luxe. If all goes well, I'll see you for dinner tomorrow. Have a good night."
Hermione felt tears welling up in the corner of her eyes, but she brushed them away. Her fiance not only didn't want to be with her, but he hadn't given her or Scorp their allotment. She wasn't the only one who noticed. Scorp noticed as well.
"Emilio doesn't gives us kisses when you talk big to him. I hope he comes back. I want more chicken and chips."
Hermione sat watching as Scorp as Scorp just about devoured his second plate. She may have snapped at Emilio over words, but what he had said was true. She had been neglectful. It probably was time to visit St Mungo's to get checked out. She didn't want to be slowly dying from an old curse. She, Emilio and Scorp had a future to share.
After cleaning Scorp up and taking him to the toilet, Hermione called Crissy and Dusty to come get their boy because she had an appointment. Having been privy to all the goings on, both Crissy and Dusty hoped Mrs. Hermione was going to see about Mr. Emilio. They didn't like it when there was trouble.
Once Scorp was upstairs under the care of Crissy and Dusty, Hermione took a quick shower, dressed then apparated to the doors of St Mungo's. Stepping into the abandoned looking building, she took a deep breath before stepping into the short queue at the Receptionist window.
Having a few minutes to think, Hermione admitted something was off with her. She just hoped Kim Reina wasn't killing her after all.