Returning To His Roots

by Divess

Sent to Switzerland shortly after the end of the War. Draco Malfoy has been enjoying life. However, a nasty run in with Hermione Granger at a conference in France forces Draco to change his entire mindset. He will return to London to face his past and prove his worth as well. With all the mitigating factors, will Draco prevail? AU/T/OC/OOC Dramione/Blinny.

20. Chapter 20

Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 19

Brendan was all business as walked over to the dresser. "Draco. Blaise. You'll have to leave. I need to be sure Mr. Nott hasn't slid backwards with all this moving around and sitting up. If he follows my instructions, he'll be able to get out of bed and walk around for a bit tomorrow."

Digging into his stores once again, Brendan turned with droppers in one hand and the salve in the other. "Which do you prefer Mr. Nott? Your skin is still quite sensitive. May I recommend the drops."

Before Theo could respond, his head lolled to the side and he began to slump over. Draco and Blaise both started for their mate, but Brendan all but shouted at them as he dripped three drops from a blue dropper and three drops from a red dropper down Theo's throat. "Out now. I will not see my work go to nothing. Out. Do not come back before tomorrow evening."

Draco and Blaise took a last look at Theo before heading quickly out the bedroom door. As before, they heard the lock click behind them.

/*/

"I think we overworked him Blaise," remarked a gutted Draco. "His color…."

"I know." Blaise said cutting across Draco. "It was going back to gray. He can't have come this far to…to…die on us. Brendan will get him sorted. I'm sure of it. I need to get going. Ginny will be wondering where I am. I'll see you tomorrow. Hermione seems to have left for the night. Brendan will have to fill her in tomorrow."

Thoughtful witch thought Draco, not wanting to see us at a our low points.

Then he sat there feeling like an idiot for pushing Theo backwards. Why had he and Blaise kept talking? The news would have been the same if they had waited a day. After all Theo's been through, if…

Draco didn't want to think about if. He didn't want to think at all.

//

Returning To His Roots: Chapter 20

It was 8:30 pm. Brendan didn't need him for anything, but Draco needed someone. He needed Hermione. What was the hesitation? All she could say was yes or no.

Draco picked up the quill and parchment Hermione had left on the living room table. Glancing at the few notes she had written, he pulled off the top page and set it aside.

Hermione,

It's a little late. For that I apologize, but I am in need of your company. May I come to your flat to talk?

Draco.

Draco sat down on the couch to await a reply.

Fifteen minutes went by. Maybe Hermione had already fallen asleep.

Twenty minutes went by. Maybe she didn't go directly home. (This thought upset him).

Thirty minutes went by. Maybe she doesn't want to be bothered. (This thought upset him even more).

At 9:25, Draco heard an owl tapping at the window. Jumping up from the couch, he retrieved the message and sent the owl on its way. With fumbling fingers, he unfolded the piece of parchment.

Draco,

It's not that late. You are welcome to come over.

Hermione.

Draco didn't feel the need to advise Brendan he was leaving. He wasn't a child looking for permission. Besides, he had been told not to come back to the room until tomorrow evening.

With the note in hand, Draco used the loo, ran a hand through his hair and headed to the back of the house where he Apparated out.

/*/

Hermione opened the door on his first knock. The sadness in her eyes was comparable to the sadness Draco felt.

"Come in Draco." She said stepping back from the door. "Is Theo alright? I heard… Well I heard him cry out. The news of Padma's death didn't set him back too much, did it?"

Closing the door behind himself, Draco grabbed Hermione wrapping her in his arms talking basically into her hair. "I think Blaise and I gave too much information." He replied in a sorrowful voice. "Brendan threw us out of the room because Theo went unconscious again and he had to use emergency measures. How bloody stupid were we?"

Hermione pulled Draco's arms from around her and led him to the couch. "I'll make us some tea."

However, before she could walk away. Draco grabbed her hand pulling her down beside him. Running his hand through her hair, he leaned in to kiss her neck much like he had been doing before Brendan interrupted them. But this time was different. Hermione didn't wiggle in anticipation. Instead, she pulled back to look Draco in the face.

Draco was confused. The sexual tension between them had been obvious. Yet Hermione was pushing him away as though he was some interloper. "What's wrong? Have I pushed too hard."

For several seconds, Hermione looked down at her clasped hands. Looking up, she stared at Draco before answering. "There is an obvious attraction between us Draco. I don't deny that, but your presence here tonight makes me wonder why the attraction. I hoped it was because you saw me as a witch you might want as a partner or someone you might grow to love."

Draco was incredulous. How could this witch not understand he was interested. "Hermione, I…"

Hermione held up a hand. "I'm not finished Draco. You have shown up here looking for comfort. I don't mean to sound harsh, but I've left the comfort game. I want to be needed for myself, as a person, not someone who only matters in times of stress. We could shag all night long and you might walk away comforted, but where would that leave me? Crying into my pillow because I was nothing more than a receptacle? I've done that. I've been there and don't intend to go there again."

Draco was dumbfounded and said the wrong thing. "But, last night you seemed willing to…..

Hermione stood. "You're right Draco. I was willing last night. Now I'm not. If I have to stand here and explain it, then I don't think this fascination is based on anything more than something you see as unfinished business." Looking Draco in the eye, she added in a low voice. "I'm nobody's unfinished business."

He'd made a mistake. Did it seem like he was taking things for granted? "I don't think of you as unfinished business Hermione."

But Hermione was through with the conversation. "I don't want to debate this Draco. I was hopeful. Now I'm not."

He was being dismissed, but instead of getting up and leaving, he dug in. "You're not hopeful because I've shown up at your door wanting to be with you? Or, you're not hopeful because it frightens you to think I could want you for you?"

Running both hands through her hair in frustration, Hermione replied in a strident voice. "Tell me why you're here Draco. Just tell me why. Never mind. Let me tell you. You feel badly about what you think you've done to Theo and have a weight on your shoulders you need removed. I'm telling you. I'm not a remover or a healer. If you need healing, please go find someone else to heal you."

Hermione had run out of steam and sat back down barely able to catch her breath.

"Draco pulled on his Malfoy façade. "Do you have a witch in mind?" He asked coolly.

"What?"

"I'm speaking proper English Hermione. Who is it you think should heal me? Do you have a witch in mind? I'm at your flat looking for your affection and the best you can do is tell me to find another witch. I'm with the witch I want. Will you let that sink in? I'm standing in front of the witch I want. I don't give two shites if we don't shag each other for a year. You'll still be the witch I want. So don't sit there pressing your fears onto me. I came here because I was at a low point, but that wasn't the only reason. I came because I wanted you to be my voice of reason. I wanted you to worry with me. Because that's what happens when a man is interested in a woman. He wants to BE WITH HER."

Now Draco was out of breath and sat there scowling. "One last thing. This is the different time and the different place. You should know what that means. I can't force my company on you so I'll leave."

Unlike the last time, Draco walked purposefully toward the door intending to leave, but was stopped by a revelation from Hermione.

"You're right. I was frightened."

Draco turned around waiting for Hermione to elaborate.

"I was frightened you wanted me to be the witch you ran to in bad times. I can't be that witch ever again. It would kill me."

Standing in the spot by the door, Draco shrugged. "Have I given you any reason to think along those lines? We were in a good place last night. Yet, in one day you've changed your mind. All because I came to you in less than stellar spirits. Suddenly you think I'm some kind of arsehole who wants to use you. I thought during our first meeting we came to the conclusion it was never my intention to hurt you. But here we are again. I can't compete with your head Hermione."

Instead of heading out the door, Draco walked back across the room and took a seat at the other end of the couch.

Hermione had drawn her legs underneath her and laid her head back against the couch. The silence was so heavy it was almost palatable.

"So we've finished our talk then?" Asked Draco.

Feeling more secure or at least much better about the whole thing after Draco's declarations, Hermione raised her head to gaze at him. "We were having words. I didn't think it counted as part of a discussion."

Draco smiled. "So, the witch has emerged from her snit. May I say, before the real discussion begins. I am interested in dating you, holding your hand and with the remote possibility you might someday uncross those legs. I'm interested in sleeping with you."

This time Hermione smiled while offering up a bit of cheek. "Will you be holding my hand in public? If not, that's a deal breaker."

Moving down the couch so he was hip to hip with Hermione, Draco laughed out loud as he reached out to brush his hand against her hair. "I'll hold your hand in front of Brendan. That's how serious I am."

Hermione grinned and closed her eyes letting a warm feeling flow through her. She really liked when Draco put his hands in her hair. "Brendan already thinks we are consorting."

"Does he now?" Asked Draco kissing Hermione on her ear. "I would like nothing more than to be consorting with you. Will you give me a chance? I would like us to get on good ground, especially for the coming days. You and I together will need to help Theo. Can I count on you?"

Turning her body so she was pressed against Draco, Hermione whispered into his chest. "You can count on me."

Draco removed his hands from Hermione's hair. Gently cupping her chin, he lifted her head so he was looking into her eyes. "I'm going to kiss you. If you have reservations, I suggest you voice them now."

"I don't have any reservations." Hermione answered with a soft mewl as Draco ran his hand down her thigh.

With his intent clear, Draco moved his hand to the inside of Hermione's thigh. All she had done was grab hold to his arms trying to pull him closer.

"Do you really want this Hermione?" He asked in a low, seductive voice as his hand pulled at her knickers. "Because I do."

As if a magnet was drawing them together, their lips met in a fierce, tongue jarring kiss. Hermione shifted ever so slightly to give Draco better access to her knickers and what they covered. As they kissed again, Draco moved his hand inside the knickers touching her which caused the slight dampness in her underwear to turn liquid.

Letting out a small moan, Hermione ground herself into Draco's hand.

Moving his mouth back by Hermione's ear, Draco croaked out a whisper. "Your wetness leads me to believe you are ready to consort with me. I want us to have each other as two free willed people who have chosen to be together."

Wrapping her arms around Draco and pulling him to her, Hermione let her movements speak for themselves.

Without having had a real first date, but with a vested interest in each other. Hermione and Draco came full circle five years after the fact.

They made love on Hermione's living room couch. It was hot, fierce and short. Draco tried to apologize, but Hermione wouldn't hear it. All she wanted was to have Draco hold her as he never had before.

And he had.

Hermione summoned two blankets from her bed to cover Draco's bare arse, but he barely noticed as he was busy using his mouth as a suction against the pussy he had so recently conquered.

Hermione cried out as Draco pushed her legs as far apart as they would go. He wasn't trying to hurt her. He was trying to get his tongue as far inside her as he could. He wanted to leave a part of himself in every open orifice Hermione had. After making Hermione come with his mouth, Draco murmured wicked things in her ear as he turned her on her stomach. Lifting her bum in the air, he ran his semi formed erection back and forth across her bum hole leaving traces of his liquids. If any other wizard ever got close to this witch again, all he would smell was Draco Malfoy.

Then he was content. Sliding himself up Hermione's body, Draco made love to her from behind. As she raised up on her knees grinding back against Draco, Hermione tightened her hands around the couch cushions letting loose a wealth of lady liquids which ran down her stomach, thighs and onto the couch. She hadn't considered herself a squirter per se, but at this time and in this place with Draco, she had released as much liquid as he had.

After, they laid there for a bit before Hermione reminded Draco he was heavy.

"I'm sorry love. You are so warm and inviting. I forgot myself. In addition, we are starkers in the middle of your living room." He said covering Hermione with one of the blankets she had summoned from her bed. "I better cover up as well. One never knows when Boot will show up. I'll just have a quick wash up. There are still a few things we should discuss."

When Draco left the room, Hermione sniffed the air. She was sure she could smell a mix of seminal and vaginal fluids all over the couch. Even casting a clear air spell and a Tergeo didn't help. She resolved that a new couch was in her future. Probably as soon as one could be delivered.

Draco came from the loo and sat on the couch. Wrinkling his nose, he moved to one of the chairs. Their lovemaking had been amazing, but the smell they left behind was overwhelming.

Hermione smiled when she realized why Draco was sitting in a chair instead of the couch. "I think a new couch is in order. Don't you?"

Not wanting to say anything disrespectful, Draco grimaced making a non judgmental reply. "A new couch would be lovely."

It was time for them to talk. Once Hermione was seated in a chair, Draco didn't waste any time getting to the point. "I'd like to thank you for…for being with me tonight. You are amazing. We are amazing together."

Hermione blushed.

Before I leave, I want to get a few things cleared up. One, I am not walking away. Two, as I mentioned before. I believe this is our different time and different place. Three, although we have skipped right past a first date. I consider us dating. Four, I need to know if you agree with all this."

Hermione walked over to plop down on Draco's lap. "I absolutely agree with all you've said. My calendar is closed to all others. We'll move forward from here."

"Excellent," replied Draco kissing Hermione on the shoulder. "I'll go home now, safe in the knowledge we are a couple. I am still holding you to our dates for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Although, I'm sure you would agree we might have to set some things aside if Theo needs our help."

"Yes. We might have to set some things aside." Hermione readily replied. "That's understood."

"Walk me to the door." He said kissing Hermione on the nose. After a few passionate kisses, Draco pulled himself away telling Hermione he would see her after work.

/*/

Hermione cleaned her blankets with a Tergeo determining that new blankets might be in order as well and the next set would be sex proof. She took a quick shower then jumped into bed.

She had almost fouled things up, but the end result was she and Draco were now dating. Letting out a deep sigh, Hermione climbed back out of bed and began rummaging through her closet. When she finally found what she was looking for, she called out a loud Evanesco vanishing the long held jar which contained the memory of Draco with Tracey Davis. That piece of rubbish was gone. For good. Hermione climbed back into bed and was sleep before her head was firmly on the pillow.

/*/

Brendan was watching Theo closely. The information given him about his wife had caused a setback, but Brendan had caught it in time. Theo was resting quietly after a few doses of special medication and his complexion had returned to normal. The poison was gone. It was now all down to keeping Theo relaxed, hydrated and immobile. Brendan was sure Theo would be ready to leave his bed by Thursday evening. And he would be ready to get back to Oregon.

Even though it was pitch dark, Brendan was back standing at the window. This time thinking about Knockturn Alley and what went on there after dark. He hadn't been a salacious man, but he was a man who had needs. Plenty were the times he'd been down the Alley to seek the company of a discreet witch and plenty were the times he'd been rewarded. He was seriously thinking about slipping off to the loo to release his tensions when Draco came walking down the hall.

"Good evening Brendan." Draco remarked exuberantly still riding the high he'd gotten from being with Hermione.

"Draco," replied Brendan his erection going flat. "Late night for a working man. Isn't it?"

"It is a bit late, but there aren't any points to be taken so I can live with it."

"Hmph," huffed Brendan. "You may be an adult Mr. Malfoy, but never think you can go toe to toe with me. I still have my ways."

Walking towards his bedroom, Draco called out. "I have no doubt that you do. Goodnight."

Once in bed, much like Hermione. A satiated Draco fell asleep immediately without giving a thought to Brendan Eilson.

/**/

Thursday started off rainy and chilly. Draco moved about the house without coming in contact with Brendan. He had his orders, so he didn't look in on Theo. After a cup of heavily creamed coffee, Draco flooed to the Ministry where he ran into Harry.

"Morning Draco. Thanks for the work on the wands. Nicely done."

Draco looked to see if Harry was having him on, but there wasn't a trace of dishonesty in his colleagues face. "Thanks Harry. There really wasn't much to it."

"About that." Harry offered hesitantly. "You listed the last spell for each wand, but protocol…."

"Shite," said Draco cutting Harry off in mid sentence. "Protocol dictates that the agent list the last three spells, more when possible. I'll get right on that."

"Great. I've laid everything on the desk in your office. I didn't think we had to discuss it in front of anyone else. See you in a bit."

Parting ways at the door, Draco watched Harry head for the Team4 offices before heading towards the offices of his team, Team3.

/*/

Blaise stopped by as he did for all teams. They spoke for a few minutes before he headed for the rest of his walkthrough. Blaise had meetings all morning so they probably wouldn't get to speak until later in the afternoon.

Donald and Brian stopped by the office wishing him a good morning with Donald mentioning there hadn't been any morning mail. After which, he added an intriguing little tidbit. "We may have some good news for you on Monday and that's all I'll say about that."

Brian had continued on to the conference room and Donald soon followed leaving Draco wondering about what might be happening on Monday.

Draco pushed thoughts of Donald's little tidbit out of his mind and gathered everything Harry had left on his desk. He was working with T4 so all work had to be done within that area.

It was a good thing Draco had the conference room to himself because Hermione kept popping up in his thoughts and each time, Draco would grin. When Craig and Michael entered to begin work on their portions of the case, Draco had to mind himself or be thought mad.

Draco declined the invitation to have lunch with Michael and Craig in the Ministry lunch room having decided to brave the rainy drizzle to run a few errands. He had to stop by Gringott's to withdraw funds to pay Brendan as well as have pocket money for his dates with Hermione. Draco knew he could pay any vendor with a Gringott's automatic wand draft, but he wanted to check his vault as well. He also planned to make a quick stop in Knockturn Alley to see if he could find a small gift of appreciation for Brendan. Knockturn Alley often had specific types of items for sale. Items which might interest the former Professor Snape.

He left the Ministry at 1:30, finished his errands and was back in the offices by 2:15 feeling chuffed about what he'd found in Knockturn Alley. Brendan would be pleased or he wouldn't.

The rest of the day passed swiftly. Draco met with Blaise shortly before leaving to let him know he would be at the house after he stopped to check on things at the Manor.

"I might go straight to the house after I leave here. I'm fairly certain Ginny would want to tag along if I went home then decided to leave again without an explanation. I hope Theo is doing better. I'll see you later."

/*/

The dreary day didn't impact Hermione in any way. Because of the previous night, she felt like there was a piece of sun shining directly on her. To say she was happy was an understatement. Terry noticed as did Justin. They were trying to get Hermione's input on their choice of Assistant, but she kept breaking into a smile. Terry finally asked if she had won the wizarding lottery.

At first, Hermione was confused by Terry's question until he explained about her erratic smiling.

"You might say that." Had been her answer before she changed the subject back to their candidate. "I was not all that impressed with Malcolm. Besides, female assistants in the Prosecutors office are few and far between. I would like for us to hire a witch. Have you given any thought to Gloria? If I remember correctly, she has been taking classes since before she was hired here. She's quick thinking, willing to lend a hand and company oriented."

This was coming out of left field. Neither Justin nor Terry had given Gloria a thought until Hermione brought up her name. They both started talking at the same time.

"How about we put her on one our new teams?" Asked Justin.

"Put her on one of our teams?" Terry asked roughly. "Does she even want to take on more responsibility? She may be fine running a desk, but what about the day to day pressure of preparing a case?"

Hermione glowered at Terry. "Slow down Terry. I didn't say we should give her the position tomorrow. I simply asked if you've looked at her. I've signed off on your choices for the new teams. You can now do me a favor and look at a candidate I think might be suitable. I'll expect to hear back about Gloria by Wednesday of next week. You both have cases going before the Wizengamot this week and next. Will you need me to assist?"

"My case is fairly basic. The evidence is straightforward and well laid out." Justin told Hermione.

"As is mine," repeated Terry. "All three of us will all be presenting when we finally get a court date for the LeClair case. Is that correct?"

"Correct," confirmed Hermione. "Justin will take the opening statement, I'll present the evidence and you will take the closing. Unless you'd rather present and I take the closing."

"I'd rather present." Terry acknowledged. "That's where I'm best and you are a master of closings Hermione."

'That's fine Terry. Unless Justin would like to take a turn at something other than the opening."

Shrugging his shoulders, Justin offered a cheeky response. "I'm top at everything. However, being the one who opens the case suits me fine."

Terry and Hermione laughed at their facetious colleague. At the same time agreeing there wasn't anyone better at making opening statements than him.

Terry looked directly at Hermione when he made his next statement. "We may not see the evidence from the LeClair case for another week or more. Seems there was a bit of shuffling among agents. Or so I've been told."

He is purposely trying to irritate me, thought Hermione. "Let me say this Terry. We don't deal in rumors. If there is someone carrying tales out of school down in OTS, he or she should be reported. I certainly don't want to hear any out of school bull shite. Blaise knows how to handle his business. He will get the case to us when OTS has done their job. If there isn't anything else, I suggest you start gathering information about Gloria. Perhaps she doesn't have the credentials to be an Assistant Prosecutor. Let's see. Thank you. Terry, please remain behind."

/*/

Justin left the room knowing his partner had spoken out of turn and Hermione was going to light a fire under his arse. Justin was aware there was someone who was unhappy about the way certain things were going on his OTS team and had made spurious remarks to several people, himself included. The simple answer was to do as he had done. He had told Craig Dunn as an Officer Of The Court, he didn't want to hear anything he would have to report. Craig had walked away in a huff, but Justin didn't care. He wasn't going to let anyone drag him into something that might not end well.

/*/

"Here's where you shite or get off the pot Terry." Hermione remarked glaring at him. "Why didn't you report this person to me? You realize OTS and DOM are two private departments with very strict rules. No information comes out until Blaise or Calvin is ready for it to come out. What were you thinking? Then to turn around and pass it on. Give me the name."

Terry looked at Hermione in amazement. "You actually want me to divulge the name of someone who passed on a bit of gossip?"

"Yes. I do. What part of divulging private information don't you understand? It's not an arbitrary rule. It's a mandate. Give me the name. If you do not give me the name, I will turn the entire thing over to Blaise for him to handle."

Terry turned bright red. "Merlin Hermione. Are you actually going to make me give you a name over something as trivial as this? You're just upset because it was Malfoy."

Hermione grabbed her wand and slammed the door shut before shouting at Terry. "Stop talking Terry. Stop fucking talking before I throw you out of this firm myself. Now give me the bloody name then get out."

Surprised by the ferocity of Hermione's words and actions, Terry revealed the name. He then tried to talk to Hermione, but all she said was, get out.

Hermione was furious. She tried like hell to keep her firm above reproach. Yet in the past two weeks, it was one bull shite thing after another. After calming down, she did what she had to do. She sent Blaise a message outlining the issue without naming names and without copying Anthony or Kingsley. She'd leave it all up to Blaise. He might value this particular employee and want to keep the problem within the department.

/*/

Hermione was sitting with her head in her hands when she looked up to find Gloria at her door.

Hermione moved the hair that had fallen forward out of her eyes. "Come in Gloria. Have a seat. Is there something I can do for you?"

"If this is a bad time, I'll come back."

"It's fine. What can I do for you?"

"I'm here to thank you for being an advocate. Justin spoke to me a little earlier on your recommendation. Whether or not I fit the criteria of what you are looking for. I am pleased you thought to suggest me. Thank you."

With that, Gloria left the office.

The visit solidified in Hermione's mind that Gloria would be an asset to the teams. She didn't have the upper level legal experience and that was okay. Hermione would be glad to have her as a trainee, but there wouldn't be any exception made if she didn't have the necessary credentials or degrees.

/*/

Two cases had come across Hermione's desk. One about a witch who was seeing a married wizard and had hurt his children when he wouldn't leave the wife. Hermione decided she would personally present this particular case. Children were off limits. If the hag wanted to hurt someone, she should have gone after the unfaithful wizard.

Hermione had just put the first case aside to review the next case when Blaise knocked on her door jamb.

"Do you have a minute Hermione?" He asked plopping himself down in a chair without waiting for an invitation. "It would seem I have a situation. Is there anything you'd care to add?"

Hermione didn't want to get involved in the situation, but she had opened the door. Nodding in Blaise's direction, Hermione spoke her mind. "I thought you would want to handle it within your department. I'd rather you check your staff and find out the name yourself."

Blaise winked at her. "How long have you known me Hermione? I don't play around. Hold on!" He said with a smile. "That did not come out the right way. What I mean to say is, I'm usually on top of my business. I've had my eye on the wizard in question. It would seem for once in my life I made an error in judgment. What I didn't know, was he has been discussing his displeasure outside of OTS. I questioned him after receiving your message. At first there was plausible deniability, but we got to the truth in the end. I did not report him to Kingsley, but Craig Dunn is no longer a member of OTS T4 and will not hold a position of trust anywhere within the Ministry if I can help it."

Hermione began turning her quill over and over in her hand. "I'm sorry it had to come to this Blaise, but I couldn't pass it by without informing you."

"Hey." He said rising to his feet. "No worries. You followed Ministry rules. I still have a few other candidates who I will review very carefully before inviting them in for an interview. Between you and me. Which of your people was stupid enough to listen to Dunn then daft enough to repeat it?"

Because Terry was not part of OTS, he technically hadn't done anything more than use poor judgment. Hermione chose to protect him. "I've spoken to him. He assured me he hasn't spoken of this to anyone else. I believe him, so I prefer to leave his reputation intact. If you don't mind."

"That's fine Hermione. I'm certain this won't be his last faux pas. Wizards like that never learn. Besides, Granger & Associates only has, what, five-six wizards on staff. I'll keep my eye on all of them."

Hermione smiled. "Don't be so dramatic Mr. Zabini. I'll see you at Draco's later. I hope Theo is on the mend."

Blaise stood in the doorway chiding Hermione. "Way to change the subject. I'm fine with that. Just remember. I'm watching. I hope Theo is on the mend as well. See you at the house."

Hermione went back to her cases determining that Granger & Associates would accept both. Reaching for the regulation form memo she used to advise the Chief Warlock she had accepted a case. Hermione filled out one for each case then sent them off to the CW's office to be stamped.

/*/

Brendan was quite pleased. The blood cleansing and replenishing spells had done their jobs. Theo was progressing nicely. During the latter part of the afternoon, he had opened his eyes to tell Brendan he was thirsty and had taken a half glass of water. After which, he had promptly fallen back to sleep.

By the time Hermione and the others got in from work, Brendan was sure Theo would be able to sit up and take a bit of clear soup, or, depending on how he felt, something more substantial.

While it had been touch and go for a few hours, Brendan was feeling good about the outcome. Theo was past the point of relapse. Going forward, all he had to do was take it slowly and rely on the support of his friends.

/*/

Brendan allowed himself time to marvel over the fact how some of the students from Hogwarts had fared. Sad to say. He wasn't surprised Gregory Goyle turned out to be a ne'er-do-well murderer. He was a bit surprised to find Draco, Mr. Zabini, and Mr. Nott socializing with Hermione. Theo Nott had married an Indian witch from Ravenclaw. Blaise Zabini was dating a Weasley and Hermione and Draco were dancing around each other. Brendan gave a brief smile as he let his thoughts linger on that one. He'd like to be present when Lucius found out about it. He, himself thought the pairing was brilliant. They would probably kill each other, but it was brilliant.

Brendan also thought of Kingsley and how he had almost single handedly changed the face of wizarding Britain with Meet and Greets, executive orders and the unbiased hirings of Ministry personnel. If nothing, the man was a brilliant strategist.

Brendan's thoughts about people and Kingsley brought to mind things which had been running through his head for the last twenty four hours. He didn't want to leave Britain. At least, he wanted to leave to tie up loose ends in Oregon then return to Britain. It was a thought he kept brushing away each time it surfaced. But it was there. Looking over the changed face of his home country, Brendan kept flirting with the idea there was no reason to remain in his self imposed exile. The world now knew the truth about Dumbledore and other things, but would they or could they look past all that to accept him back into their society. Questions, questions, questions.

Brendan heard a noise and looked back to find Theo dressed in nothing but underwear holding on to the door frame. "I have to relieve myself, but I'm at a disadvantage. I don't know where I am."

Brendan jumped up taking Theo by the arm guiding him to the toilet attached to his bedroom. "Slowly Mr. Nott. This has to be done slowly. There are ways to spell away the urine. Had you advised me, I would have cast one."

Theo gave a halfhearted smile. "I'm sure you would have Brendan, but there are other matters I need to attend to as well."

"In that case," replied Brendan. "Try not to strain yourself."

Leaving Theo to attend to his toilet, Brendan pulled out his wand to freshen up the bedding. He also conjured a fresh set of clothing in case Theo wanted to shower. It was done. From here, all Theo had to do was take things slowly and he'd be back to normal in no time. Brendan heard the shower go on and left the room closing the door behind him.

It was his time to be gone. He checked his leather bag to insure he had all his belongings then moved it over by the Apparition area. Summoning the brandy, Brendan poured himself a double thinking how much he deserved it. He was still sitting there when the first of them came in from work.

Actually, the first of them consisted of Hermione and Blaise. One right behind the other.

"Hello Brendan," said Hermione moving towards the loo. "How is Theo?"

"Hello Brendan. Draco will be along. He is making a quick stop at Malfoy Manor. How's Theo?"

"Shall I wait for Draco before I give an update?" Brendan asked wryly. "That way you will all find out I haven't killed Mr. Nott off at the same time."

"Stop being surly Brendan," countered Hermione from the kitchen. "We are simply concerned for our friend. Is that your bag sitting in the hall?"

"I wasn't being surly Hermione. I was simply making a statement. And yes, that is my bag sitting in the hall."

At that moment, Draco came walking down the hall greeting everyone as he came. "I see you're all packed up Brendan. Theo must have made a speedy recovery. Shall we order some takeout or are you in a hurry to get away?"

The door to Theo's room opened suddenly and he stood there like some statue covered only by a half sized towel with a good part of his genitalia hanging out. "Takeout will be fine. Although I might have to suck it through a straw."

Hearing Theo's voice brought Hermione back to the living room on a run where she stopped dead in her tracks and threw her hands over her eyes. "Bloody hell Theo. That thing is huge."

Draco was beside himself as he shouted for Theo to go put some clothes on.

Hermione had hurried back to the kitchen where she stood with her back against the counter totally embarrassed and blushing magenta.

Theo was apologizing that he didn't know Hermione was there while an irate Draco could be heard telling Theo not to make him sorry he'd helped see to his cure.

Blaise was howling.

Even Brendan had a small smile on his face. Not because of what Hermione had said, but because Draco was almost apoplectic because Theo had allowed Hermione to see his private parts.

Draco came out of Theo's room as red as the Malfoy pale genes would allow.

Still laughing, Blaise commented how Theo could feasibly kill somebody with that thing.

Draco scowled while Brendan managed to maintain his decorum.

/*/

A fully dressed Theo walked slowly into the living room to take a seat at the end of the couch. "Sorry about that. Have I driven Hermione away? You all should give a lad warning when there's a witch about."

Blaise who couldn't get the smile off his face called out. "It's safe to come out Hermione. Theo has seen fit to clothe himself."

"I'll be there in a second," Hermione said wondering if she could face the men after what had come out of her mouth. "Can I get you anything while I'm here Theo?"

"I'm quite thirsty Hermione. Will you bring me a glass of water?"

Draco quickly rose from his chair offering to get the water.

"Why thank you Draco. Brendan has made it clear I should drink as much water as possible to speed the healing."

When Draco came back through with the water, he had Hermione by the hand and showed her to a seat away from Theo.

Ah ha, was all Blaise could say. Brendan gave himself a mental pat on the back. It was out there now.

Everyone looked at Draco waiting to hear what he had to say.

He didn't fail them. "Hermione and I are a couple. So if anyone else thinks about prancing unclothed around her, think again. The only genitals she'll be seeing are mine."

Hermione sat there absolutely beet red while Blaise and Theo glanced at each other.

"Sorry mate. I'm sorry Hermione. It wasn't my intention to show off my worldly goods. I wasn't thinking clearly. I wouldn't have walked out practically starkers if I'd known you were here."

"No problem." Hermione answered brightly. "I was just surprised to see someone almost as big as Draco."

In spite of himself, Hermione's words brought a smile to Draco's face.

"Hermione Granger!" Choked out Blaise. "Sixty points from Granger & Associates for the owner's cheeky remark. By the way. Congratulations to you and Draco."

"Enough of this talk." Brendan remarked sharply putting an end to the banter. "Let me go over Mr. Nott's follow up instructions with the lot of you. I do not want any question as to what he should and should not be doing. Pay attention.

As Mr. Nott mentioned, he is to drink copious amounts of water or apple juice; Tonight and tomorrow, he should walk for five minutes, rest then walk for five minutes more; Enough sleep is mandatory, so whether he needs it or not, he should take a calming or relaxation draught before bed; He should start off eating soup, but is allowed any soft food his stomach will tolerate. He may have regular food in two days; Lastly, I've left ten pieces of medicinal gum which he should chew twice a day for at least two days to help with the elimination process. If all goes well, and it should, he will be back to full health by Monday. Do not let him overexert himself. He won't like the results. That's everything. If there aren't any questions, I will gather my belongings and be on my way back to Oregon. It is a pleasure to see how well you all are doing in life. I'm sorry for your loss Mr. Nott. Good luck."

Draco stood to ask Brendan for a private word. However, before they could walk away, Hermione intervened.

"After you and Draco talk, I insist you open your gift before you leave. It is meant to be shared."

Brendan nodded as he followed Draco from the room.

/*/

Draco wanted to pay the one hundred Galleons as agreed and present Brendan with the gift as well.

When Draco tried to give Brendan the Galleons, he refused to accept them. "Although, I appreciate the gesture, I've enjoyed myself far too much to be paid for services. Use the Galleons to purchase a funeral arrangement for Theo's wife from Brendan Eilson."

Draco understood and didn't try to press the money on Brendan, but he wouldn't take no for an answer about the gift.

Brendan accepted the small box which he opened to find a handsome, deep red, Pyrope Garnet ring. For several seconds, Brendan was speechless. He could count on both hands the number of gifts he'd received in his life. Most of which had come from Lily Evans. Garnet was his birthstone and the mounting was magnificent.

"If you try it on, I'll show you to see the best parts." Added Draco.

Slipping the ring on his finger, Brendan was surprised to see the curly, cursive initials BE appear within the stone.

Draco wasn't finished. He explained how the ring had an empath spell on it and could distinguish when Brendan was alone. At that time, the initials would change to SS.

Brendan who was amazed by this particular piece of magic, commented he hadn't ever seem anything like it.

Draco remained silent, but was glad he'd found a gift that impressed a wizard who couldn't be impressed.

For several seconds, Brendan gazed at the ring. Then, snapping back to a Snapelike demeanor, he offered Draco a curt thank you before heading back to the living room…. to open his other gift.