Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 2

"Are we back on this subject? I thought you were going to take some time to reflect on your choices. You're over thinking things mate. Anyway, I'm pretty sure Kingsley hasn't ever thrown anyone out of his office. And I'm very sure he won't throw us out."

"That sure of our welcome. Are you?" Draco asked staring down into his fresh glass of Ogden's. "You must have become a wizard of great importance in the last five years."

Blaise let out a chuckle. "Have you forgotten mate? You and I have always been wizards of great importance. However, in this case. I do have a firm leg up."

Feeling more like himself than he had all day, Draco moved his head up and down in agreement. "Yes. We were that. Wizards of great importance."

"Glad you agree mate. There's one additional reason I'm sure Kingsley won't throw us out."

"And what is that?" countered Draco.

Rising from his chair, Blaise grabbed his own robes and headed to the bathroom to change back calling back over his shoulder. "I have been Head of OTS since its inception."

/

Returning To His Roots: Chapter 3

After taking a deep swallow of his drink, Draco laughed out loud at Blaise's revelation. Slytherins would always make sure they had an edge.

While Blaise showered, Draco considered his options. He had spent five years studying and building his portfolio. Was it really an option to put that aside for some mundane job in the Ministry? Then he remembered Blaise's words. OTS agents were considered sexy. One thing was certain. At the moment, he could use a bit of sexy in his life.

Draco knew if he was to make any decision regarding a position with Blaise. He would have to know more about it. Blaise mentioned that his Criminalistics Degree would play a major part in the position. Perhaps he could put aside his desire to be a prosecutor in favor of becoming a sexy forensics expert for the OTS.

The thought hadn't passed across Draco's mind good when a thick sheath of parchment unrolled itself from the inner pocket of Blaise's cloak and landed on the table in front of Draco. Each page was headed, Office of Truth Seeking, Blaise Zabini, Head of Department. Prat, thought Draco setting his glass down. He could have told me at the beginning. Picking up the documentation, Draco settled back and began to read.

The material contained everything Draco needed to know about OTS. Even though he thought Blaise could have chosen a name stronger than Office of Truth Seeking, he was very interested in what the department was about. By the time Blaise finished his shower, Draco had read everything contained in the stack of parchment and knew quite a bit about OTS.

"So Mr. Malfoy. Is that enough information?" Blaise asked smugly. "What do you think? Can I count on you to take a position with your old, Slytherin mate?"

"What is it you haven't told me?" Draco countered holding up the parchment. "For as much as you've been talking up OTS. The information in your literature seems to imply you need agents. You're not doing me a favor. I'll be doing you a favor."

"Ah! Back to egotistical are we then? Draco Malfoy, ever the pessimist. I am looking for agents because I am extremely picky about whom I have representing my department. And make no mistake. If you accept a position, you will be representing me. Now. I have another engagement so I'll leave you to ponder your future. Think it over carefully Draco. If you decide to come in, I'll need you to come all the way in. I would appreciate you giving me a firm answer straightaway. Thank you for dinner. It was….. Interesting."

/*/

When Blaise left Malfoy Manor, he Apparated directly to his flat. There was a function he meant to attend and had to get ready. There were important things to be done.

Blaise dressed to the nines. It wasn't hubris. It was what was expected. After all, he would be mingling with the top line of Wizarding business society. He had an image to maintain along with ideas he wanted to put forth. He wanted to be taken seriously. Blaise wasn't his brother's keeper, but in this case he would make an exception. He wanted to pave the way for his potential new hire and old friend. Which is what he did.

Blaise spent most of the night conversing with the people who mattered most. The movers and shakers around which the Wizarding World revolved. Many were skeptical of the things he said, but there were those who listened. By the time the event was over, Blaise was secure in the knowledge he had made inroads across the conscious and subconscious prejudices of a good many wizards and witches.

Blaise had even gotten Hermione to discuss her feelings on the matter which was a momentous step forward. She still felt a great deal of bitterness towards Draco for running out on the whole, after war cleansing and clean up, thing. She felt Draco still owed a lot of people an apology making no bones about how unwelcome he would be until that was done.

Hermione wanted to go back and forth which annoyed Blaise, but he remained courteous and respectful. At the same time thinking, Hermione has become a legend in her own mind giving orders about how unwelcome Draco will be. She might have a stellar reputation in the legal field, but she will not be the one making decisions for the whole of Wizarding Britain.

It was years after Hogwarts, but Blaise still retained his Slytherin qualities. If Hermione Granger wouldn't work with him, he would work around her, her undeclared lover Terry Boot and her minion Finch-Fletchley. It was a game she wouldn't win.

By the time Blaise landed at home, he was certain everything would work out well.

/*/

Draco's wing was far removed from his parents wing, but he had been hungry and was presently in the kitchens getting something to assuage the rumblings in his stomach. Normally Draco would have summoned a house elf to fetch him food, but he wanted a stretch of the legs. So he was on the ground floor when his mother followed his father into his study. Not only was Draco caught off guard by the level and pitch of his mother's voice, but the content of their conversation as well.

"Why are you trailing me like some Muggle wench who trails her man?" Lucius growled at Narcissa. "I am in my study to have a nightcap. What is it you want?"

"You have been gone for hours Lucius." Narcissa fairly shrieked at her husband. "Who is it that pulls you away from me and has you coming home smelling of flowery perfume?"

Draco could hear the fury in his father's voice. "Be very careful with your accusations Narcissa. Our son is in the Manor. Don't let him hear you pouring out your vile ramblings. Draco would not be pleased to hear how insecure you've become. Any flowery perfume you smell is all in your mind. Now please leave me be. I'll be up shortly."

Rather than face his mother or run into his father, Draco Apparated to his wing as soon as the house elf put the tray in his hands. Laying the tray on a side table, Draco paced the floor wondering what he had come home to. Draco was aware of his father's voracious sexual appetite as he himself had inherited that very same appetite. But being so indiscreet his wife had found him out. That was unthinkable.

Also unthinkable was him approaching his mother or father about the subject. It was a marital situation that did not concern him. Anyway, his parents had been married for a great many years. If there was anything to be worked out, they would manage as they always had. Together.

Rumbling stomach forgotten, Draco showered then laid out across his bed thinking about what he had heard. He was back in London soon to face his accusers and detractors. He had his own problems.

/*/

Hermione was livid. Blaise had upset her with his talk about Draco Malfoy being back in London. Who did Blaise think he was supporting the slimy bastard? In fact, who did Malfoy think he was sneaking back into London. He had been fine in Switzerland for the past five years. He should have kept his trifling arse where he was. Was he coming back to stir up trouble? Did Malfoy believe he would come back and take over? Him and his bloody father could kiss her arse. London didn't need the smarmy bastard coming back trying to throw his weight around. Hermione was sure of one thing. Draco Malfoy would have to go through her to get back in everyone's good graces.

/*/

Terry Boot sighed as he shifted from one side of his chair to the other trying to relax his leg which had fallen asleep.

Terry had fallen in love with the feisty and arbitrary Hermione Granger the moment he laid eyes on her when she returned to London a year ago. But right now he was tired of hearing her rant only remaining at her flat in hopes of reviving some of the intimacy she had shown him a few weeks ago. He had been deliriously happy when Hermione threw her arms around his neck giving him a searing kiss. The kiss had turned into a night of unbearably hot sex Terry wouldn't soon forget. Unfortunately for him, Hermione never again mentioned the kiss or acknowledged their night of passion. So Terry found himself waiting patiently for Hermione to turn to him once again even though he hated seeing her in the state she was in.

Terry also resented, no make that hated, Draco Malfoy. Hermione's mood had gone all to hell after Zabini mentioned that the slimy tosser was back in London.

Finch-Fletchley had remained with him and Hermione at the event for as long as he could stand the complaining. Then he had excused himself to go speak with Aurors Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Michael Corner who also had been part of their small group only moving away when Hermione began ranting. As much as Terry hated to think it. He felt if Hermione kept going as she was, people would side with Malfoy out of spite.

He had accompanied Hermione back to her flat and here he sat. Hermione finally ran out of steam and looked over at Terry as though she was surprised to see him there. Approaching Terry with a distinct wobble, Hermione thanked him for staying with her while she got over her little snit, as she called it.

When Hermione leaned in, Terry could smell the liquor emanating from her. He was torn when she began to run her hand down his arm. He didn't want to encourage Hermione if she was impaired, but he wanted more than anything to feel himself sliding into her warm crevice. In fact, he craved being with this witch.

Leaning her head on Terry's shoulder, Hermione slid her hand down his arm landing it in his lap where she began to gently rub his hardening dick. Terry gasped as Hermione gripped his erection a little more tightly and began rubbing him in earnest. Terry who was lost in the feeling, parted his legs to allow Hermione better access. A soft moan escaped his lips when she lowered his zipper and reached in to free his now erect dick.

Before Terry let Hermione go any farther, he asked if she was sure about what she was doing because he was getting to a point from which he couldn't return.

Hermione kept a firm grip on his dick as she glanced up at Terry. "My handsome boy. I am more than sure if you couldn't tell by the grip I have on your erect soldier."

"Well, if you sure." Terry answered as he carried her to the bedroom. "My fondest wish is to be inside you once again and listen as you passionately call out my name." Watching Hermione lie squirming before him, Terry could not contain his feelings. "This is where I want to be Hermione. I love hearing you moan. I love the way you grab me when you are ready to come."

Hermione had spread herself wide, but wrapped her legs around Terry's back as soon as he positioned his dick. When he pushed into her, Hermione gave a soft scream of ecstasy which gave way to low growls the harder and faster Terry stroked.

As Terry pushed into Hermione, he whispered how making love to her gave him so much pleasure along with other explicit things lovers often say. His words drove Hermione into a sexual frenzy leaving Terry to use damn near every muscle in his body to remain mounted. As they bumped bodies, Terry felt the tensing up that signaled Hermione was ready to climax and moved even more furiously. His climax was seconds away and he was pulling Hermione along with his most seductive words. Then all at once, they were both clawing at each other as the sensation of being wrung out and released passed through them. Panting heavily with his dick still pushing out hot liquid, Terry leaned back to watch Hermione as the pleasure of their orgasm passed across her face.

Terry had liked Hermione Granger ever since Hogwarts, but she had been infatuated with Weasley so he couldn't make his case. Now. With the road clear. He would not stop pursuing her until she consented to be his witch.

Their sex and intimacy had been amazing. The only thing spoiling the mood was Hermione rolling away from him to sleep on her side at almost the very outer edge of the bed. She had done the same thing when they previously slept together.

The elation Terry felt earlier was rapidly dissipating. He was good enough to fuck, but not good enough to cuddle. He had let it go the first time, but tonight he wanted more intimate contact. He would be the one to initiate cuddling. That was his plan. However, when he moved up behind Hermione. She moved away from him scrunching farther into her pillow. Terry had his answer. There wouldn't be any further intimate contact.

He hadn't been invited to stay the night so he felt uncomfortable remaining in Hermione's bed. Letting out an exasperated sigh, Terry sat on the side of the bed feeling as confused as he had after the first time he and Hermione had sex. Hermione liked sex with him, but apparently little else. Quietly getting to his feet, Terry went to shower and dress.

/**/

On Saturday morning, Draco woke almost with the sun. For a few minutes, he allowed himself the luxury of remembering the arrogant, scheming wizard he used to be. In turn, those memories brought to mind Switzerland and the mates he had made while there. He had then spent the next several seconds thanking Merlin for the changes he had been forced to make in his life and for those who had helped him.

While Draco was being all pensive. Missy the house elf knocked on the door checking to see what Draco wanted for breakfast. Draco gave his selections and Missy left the room with a soft pop.

The interruption had broken his reverie so Draco began sorting through all the paperwork he had brought back from Switzerland. He laughed especially hard at a magical photo of Baker wiggling his naked backside. Draco missed his mates and for one fleeting moment doubted he had done the right thing by coming back to Wiltshire and London.

Draco set aside the sheets of parchment he had been sorting into two piles when Missy returned with his breakfast. Placing the breakfast on the table in front of Draco, Missy remained in place waiting to make sure the food was to his liking. As she waited for Draco to taste his meal, Missy asked her master if she could help him. "Missy is seeing you making bundles of pages. Are you needing Missy to help you? Missy can work very fast."

Missy's request took Draco by surprise. In the past, Malfoy house elves would never volunteer for anything knowing it would be considered overstepping their place and would warrant a whack across the face from any of the Malfoys. When Draco didn't answer straightaway, Missy bowed her head mumbling she was sorry for bothering her Master Draco.

"Hold your head up Missy." Draco said sharply enough to make the tiny house elf tremble. "I want you to listen to me. I'm nobody's master. I would prefer you address me as Draco sir or Mr. Draco. Either will do. Laws have been passed which have changed the status of house elves. You are not a slave Missy. You are household staff at Malfoy Manor. Therefore, you will continue to be respectful to me, but you will not have reason to tremble in fear in my presence. I'm sure the same goes for mother and father. Your offer of help is appreciated. However, this particular job is something I'd like to do myself."

"Your welcome Mr. Draco sir. Missy always glad to help you with anything. Enjoy your breakfast. Missy be back to get the tray when you are done. It be nice to have you home sir."

Draco stared at the spot where Missy had stood and relived the past few minutes. Their short conversation had brought everything crystal clear. There was no more need for posturing and bullying. He was still Draco Malfoy, just in a different form. Perhaps there really was a place for him in this nice, new world.

Draco carried his positive thoughts even further. Maybe after he made his amends and things settled down. He would even invite Wil, Clarke, Desmond and perhaps Beth to London to spend some time with him. Draco shook his head sighing to himself. That day was probably a very long way off. Anyway, he didn't have a place to invite anyone. Somewhere along the way, he would have to buy a flat of his own. He was a twenty three year old man. It was past time for him to get out from under mummy and daddy and away from Malfoy Manor.

His mother had paid for his classes, his personal requirements as well as his lodgings. Draco hadn't wanted for anything in Switzerland. When he came home to Malfoy Manor, there had been information regarding the Gringott's accounts which had automatically transferred to his name at the age of twenty one laying on top of his dresser. He was a wealthy wizard in his own right. Purchasing his own home or flat, would not be a problem.

Draco let those thoughts sink in. Then he picked up his bundles of pages as Missy had called them and began putting together several packets. One to present to Minister Shacklebolt if he was allowed an interview and extras to present to law firms if the position with Blaise didn't come through.

"Accio wand." Draco called out as he stood in front of the mirror examining himself. He needed a change. His slicked back hair would be first to go. After that, he would see. Grinning at himself, Draco though he might try some of the new patterned robes which his father said were all the rage.

Draco was still laughing to himself when someone knocked on his door. Missy was back to pick up his tray and hand him several owl messages. When Draco looked perplexed, Missy explained the situation. "Missy had to explain to all the owls you is back home Mr. Draco sir. From now on they be bringing your mail to the right place."

"Thank you Missy. You take care of your Draco very well."

"It's not just Missy helping," replied the tiny elf before turning toward the door. "Elder and Binney be helping. They is glad you're back home too."

Draco smiled to himself. At least the House Elves are glad I'm home. I'll call that a step in the right direction.

/*/

Before sitting down to read his letters, Draco set his wand to sort through the closet and bring the black and navy blue robes to the front separated as day, dress and formal. The rest of his clothing were the garments of a teen wizard. They would be handed to Elder for disposal.

With the clothing issue out of the way, Draco opened the topmost letter.

The letter was from Wil who gave a run down on the wizards who were chasing after Beth now that he was gone. They are after her like insects on an open jar of honey.

Draco laughed out loud, but crossed Beth off the list of people he would invite to London. Reading on, it was the same old Wil being his smart arsed self.

Near the end of the letter, Wil mentioned a Criminalists Conference being held in London early the following year which he, Clarke and Desmond were in the process of trying to finagle a way to attend.

Draco had laughed out loud again. Wil Baker would never change.

Draco reread Wil's letter before putting it aside for his next letter which turned out to be a message from Blaise.

Mate,

I had the chance to speak to Kingsley last night. He will see us at 2:00 this afternoon. Have your shite in order because the Minister does not usually take meetings on Saturday. I will swing by the Manor at 1:45 and we will travel to the Ministry together.

I know I don't have to tell you dress to impress. What you don't know is the Minister allows and encourages Basic Wear (formerly called Muggle clothing) within the Ministry these days which is part of the reason for this very early owl. A Basic suit will go over very well. If you don't have one in your closet, get one… or two.

Lastly. Theo, who has become a very important real estate developer and his wife Padma Patil Nott are having one of their meet and greet nights which they throw to foster relationships among the people of London. Just the usual, drinks, assignations, gossip with a few handshakes thrown in. We will be attending that as well. You never know who will attend one of these things so stay alert. I will stop by the Manor between 9:00-9:30. Please be ready. There is no time like the present for you to get back into proper society. Basic Formal attire please.

p.s. I know you are wondering about the term Basic Wear. It's just Kingsley's way to get us out of stuffy robes while allowing us a variety of clothing without shoving certain terms down the throats of Magical people. Nowadays, robes are only required at legal proceedings. However, manner of dress outside the courtroom still remains with the witch or wizard who has to wear it. Older wizards have remained attached to robes, but the younger generations are very comfortable wearing Basic Wear.

I could have waited to explain all this, but I didn't want to chance you doing or saying something else awkward.

I'll see you at 1:45.

Blaise

/*/

Awkward my arse, thought Draco reading through the message a second time. Time was at a premium so Draco hurried to dress and get to Diagon Alley where he hoped to find a decent apparel shop.

With Blaise's explanations running through his mind, Draco decided for the present he would purchase five day outfits, two dress outfits, three formal outfits and accessories as needed. Better to be safe than sorry. Additionally, he would have to make time to see a barber for a bit of a change in hairstyle.

It was already 9:30. 1:45 would be there before he knew it. Draco had less than four hours to get himself in order. Everything would have to be done on the run.