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.

28. Chapter 28

Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 27

The time spent with Team 4 was doing nothing more than grunt work, but the three wizards were more than glad to help out. Harry and Michael seemed to appreciate the assistance.

The men had shared some laughs during their late lunch.

"I heard you hoped I was dead Potter." Draco taunted Harry.

Before Harry could answer, Michael piped up. "No Malfoy. That would have been me. I was trying to get on a first name basis with Pansy. However, knowing she found you irresistible, I hoped you had fallen into the sea and drowned."

Draco laughed the loudest. "Nice Corner. Blame me for not being able to get with Pansy. She and I were nothing more than friends."

"Good to know." Michael responded before the words were fully out of Draco's mouth. "I'll tell her you said hello when I go home tonight. I'll tell our son as well."

Draco stopped with his sandwich between mouth and plate. "You married Pansy? Congratulations. It's no wonder your trousers are falling. Pansy probably keeps your balls in a jar on the side table."

"Okay guys. Let's not let the bantering get out of hand. We should get back to work." Clapping Draco on the back as they left the conference room, Harry joked. "Never knew you had a sense of humor Malfoy. Welcome to the real world."

Draco grinned as he followed Harry back to Team 4 area. Fucking gits. The both of them, he thought, picking up where he'd left off before lunch. Wait until they find out I'm dating the Gryffindor Princess.

Checkmate.

/

Returning To His Roots: Chapter 28

After lunch, Draco remained with Team 4, but sent Donald and Brian over to Team 2 to assist there.

Harry wanted to take a quick trip back to the scene of the case they were working on. It wasn't as though he thought they had missed anything. He just wanted to be sure they hadn't.

And they hadn't. All that was left for Harry was to pull everything together and present it to Blaise. Around 4:30, Harry thanked Draco for the help his team had given telling him there wasn't anything else to be done.

Draco got back to the Team 3 offices just as Donald and Brian came down the hall. "Hello men. Everything go alright with Team 2? I know they aren't the friendliest of fellows."

Donald laughed while Brian remained quiet, not knowing if Draco was joking. "They're friendly enough," replied Donald after he finished laughing. In fact, they are a bit more cheery than some people on Team 3."

Draco looked up with a scowl on his face. "Really? By someone on this team, I imagine you are referring to Brian because I'm a loveable sort who wouldn't say shite if I had a mouthful."

Donald just smiled as he clapped Brian on the back and walked away from both men. "If you say so Draco. I'm going to pop out to pick up the late mail. After which, I plan to tidy up a few things before leaving for the evening. See you in a bit."

Brian was quick to leave Draco's office as well. There were a few loose ends on his desk that he should tidy up. However, before he could get out the door. Draco called him back.

"A minute Brian."

Brian didn't like the sound of it at all, but quickly turned around and walked back to the desk. "Is there something I can do for you Draco?"

"No Brian. I have something I want to say. Sometimes you seem to be uneasy around me, so I'll tell you this. You are an integral part of our team. As important as Donald and myself. There will be times when I'll be less than pleasant. During those times, you will still be an integral part of the team. Please stop believing any cross word has something to do with you. Unless, of course, it does have something to do with you. I hope you've caught my meaning because this is the first and last time I'll mention this. Finish up then head out. I'll see you in the morning."

Brian left Draco's office feeling a bit more sure of himself. He was an integral part of the team. Even when Draco was being a bear. Even when he made an arse of himself. No one was better than him. Brian finished his paperwork, said goodnight and went on his way with a straighter back.

Donald dropped the mail off to Draco, cleared up a few things. Then he too left for the evening.

Draco wasn't more than twenty minutes behind his teammates landing at his house around 6:15 to find a very absorbed Hermione poring over a pile of documents.

/*/

Hermione's Thursday had started off well enough. She, Justin and Terry met for an hour about the LeClair case. Because this case involved the very slippery Sir Etienne LeClair and several of his buddies, Hermione wanted absolutely every last I dotted and every T crossed. Hermione was aware that there were tons of witnesses for the defense, including Lucius Malfoy, who had been allowed by the court to give a written deposition. Even though this was an important case, the only physical bodies in attendance outside of solicitors would be Etienne LeClair and two flunkies. It sucked, but Hermione wasn't surprised. The wealthy protected the wealthy. LeClair had worked hard with his solicitor to keep his friends from having to appear in public, in court. Even though LeClair might face prison time. It was more than likely the only people to definitely receive prison time would be the two flunkies

There was a consensus among her, Justin and Terry that the most they could do was give a solid opening statement, present their evidence, and end with a solid closing statement. The verdict would be up to the Wizengamot and Chief Warlock.

Hermione would never accuse anyone of wrongdoing without proof, but knowing the Wizengamot was made up mostly of old line, wealthy witches and wizards. She was left with the impression the most LeClair would get was a fine and possibly expulsion from London for a given time period. She could hope for more, but expected a soft verdict. No matter. Granger & Associates would still present the best possible case.

With their case all tight and tidy, Justin and Terry left Hermione's office to get on with their day while Hermione waited for return Owls from Jack or Edgar.

She had made discreet inquiries about Rebecca and Betty. It was true that wealthy witches and wizards could most certainly skirt the law, but neither Rebecca nor Betty was wealthy, or had wealthy friends. As far as Hermione knew. So the question became. Who was working behind the scenes to support Rebecca? Hermione felt the same as Draco. The two witches deserved nothing less than twenty years a piece in prison. They had aided, abetted and harbored a lunatic who ended up nearly killing Wil and Blaise. Then had actually killed Padma. Hermione wanted information, and she wanted it before she left for the day.

/*/

By 2:20, Hermione was a bit aggravated that neither Jack nor Edgar had gotten back to her. Deciding not to wait another minute, Hermione let Gloria know she was leaving the building, but would be back shortly.

Grabbing her purse, Hermione caught the lift down then flooed through to Jack Dillard's offices figuring he was more apt to give up information than Edgar.

Hermione Granger of Granger & Associates was a well known prosecutor, so Jack's receptionist was quick to notify her boss that Hermione needed to see him.

Five minutes later, Jack came out to personally see Hermione to his office. "Hermione." He said reaching out to shake her hand. "I received your Owl. Unfortunately, I didn't have any information relative to what you asked."

Hermione sighed. A wasted trip, she thought as she began to move towards the office door.

"Hold on now." Jack cackled. "So feisty Hermione. If you'd let me finish my thought, I'm sure you will be pleased. If you'll have a seat, I'll show you what I've found out."

Hermione smiled at Jack before gingerly sliding into one of his chairs. "You know me too well Jack. My apologies. It's just that the information you have means a lot to me…..and others."

Jack had an idea Hermione was referring to Theo Nott when she said, and others. Handing Hermione a folder, Jack asked if she would like a tea before showing her to an empty conference room.

"I would Jack." Hermione replied before taking a seat. Not lifting her eyes from the information in front of her, she added. "That would be lovely."

Hermione continued to read even as Jack's receptionist sat a cup down in front of her.

"I hope white tea will do. I read somewhere it is your favorite."

This time, Hermione lifted her eyes from the papers to make eye contact as she thanked the witch. "How nice. Thanks so much."

Reaching over to take a sip of tea, Hermione was impressed that someone knew her fondness for white tea. Then she went back to figuratively ingesting the information.

/*/

The information was clear. Rebecca's witch Gina Kroeker came from a wealthy family that had transplanted from Belgium. Hermione recognized the name. She hadn't heard anything negative about the Kroeker family, but in this case, felt they'd made a very bad decision. Gina had obviously asked her family to step in to help Rebecca. And they had. Father Kroeker had lent his support (and galleons) to see that Rebecca's charges had been reduced which made it easy for a solicitor to get her out of jail.

Hermione also recognized the name of the lowlife solicitor who had taken Rebecca's case, and was immediately aggravated. As long as there were enough galleons involved. The man would represent a Dementor. Hermione had kicked his arse in court numerous times, but was most upset because he had known Padma. In fact, he was acquainted with many of the same people Hermione knew. Perhaps, she could persuade Theo to have a word with the piece of shite. There wasn't anything that could be undone with regard to Rebecca at this late date. However, Theo could let the solicitor know how he felt.

There wasn't any mention of Betty Goyle in the file, so it was apparent to Hermione Mr. Kroeker chose not to pay for her appeal. And where there wasn't any galleons, there wouldn't be any representation. That answered the question as to why Betty Goyle was seeking support from Draco. Any wealthy benefactor in a storm.

/*/

"Not this time bitch." Hermione snapped out loud. "You won't be getting one knut of support from Draco Malfoy, but I will be speaking to the CW. Even if it is only to get my point across."

/*/

Jack appeared at the door. "Frustrated to the point of talking to yourself? Behind closed doors, I sometimes find myself doing that very thing. I take it the information is not to your liking. I wish it could be better news. I've read over the information. Unless Miss Goyle finds herself a wealthy wizard. I don't think she will see the light of day anytime soon. You may take that information with you. I don't have any need for it."

Hermione nodded her head and grinned. "Unfortunately Jack, talking to myself has become a habit. Thank you for the information. Please give my thanks to your receptionist for the tea. Will you or one of your associates be sitting in on the trial tomorrow."

"As much as I like to see you, Justin and Terry in action. I believe I already know the outcome. I'll take a pass on that one, but good luck anyway. No matter the outcome, I know you will have pinned LeClair and his cohorts to the wall."

Shrugging, Hermione told Jack that only time would tell. "Thanks again. We're in a bit of flux at the moment at Granger & Associates. I hope you don't mind if I send you a few cases."

"I wouldn't mind at all Hermione. Thank you."

/*/

Hermione stepped off the lift on her floor and headed directly to Gloria. "Hi Gloria. I need some assistance. Please schedule an appointment for me with the CW. I'd like to see him as soon as possible. He'll be in court all day tomorrow. Try to get me in on Monday. I know this is a bit pushy, but check if he'll see me this afternoon. If not, we'll go with Monday….early. Thank you. Are Jason and Elroy set for tomorrow?"

"I'll get right on it Hermione. Jason and Elroy have been briefed and are ready to step in. I'll have someone keep an eye on the front desk. Rather than send the CW a message that might languish on his desk. I'm going to check with him in person. I'll be back straightaway."

Hermione thought to herself, I love that witch.

/*/

As she had promised, Hermione put together a packet of four minor cases, wrapped them, then sent them off to Jack Dillard. A favor for a favor. It was an open secret that Jack wasn't as strong a prosecutor as some. Therefore, sending him a few cases helped Granger & Associates reduce its caseload while throwing a bit of business to Jack. Win-win.

Gloria was back at the door even before Hermione finished making notations about the four cases she'd sent to Jack.

"Come in Gloria. How did we fare?"

"We fared well." Gloria replied handing Hermione a slip of paper with a date and time. "CW expects to be out of court by 4:00, so he'll see you tomorrow at 4:15. He also added a delightful caveat. He says he'll be back at his desk by 4:00 if my boss doesn't hold the court hostage all day."

Hermione laughed. "The CW may be the second most powerful wizard in the courts, but that obviously doesn't stop him from being cheeky. Thank you. It's almost 6:00. Why don't you tidy up your loose ends and leave for the night. I'll see you in the morning."

"Alright Hermione. I'll see you in the morning."

Hermione finished her notes and filed them away before grabbing her purse and wand. It was time for her to make an appearance at Mr. Malfoy's home.

/*/

Draco was more than happy to see his witch. Even though she appeared to be thoroughly absorbed in the paperwork in front of her.

"Hello love." He said walking over to kiss Hermione on the mouth. "What is so interesting that you won't raise your head to meet my lips?"

"There's nothing more important than you Mr. git." Hermione replied shifting a few papers then tilting her face upwards to meet Draco's next kiss. "Except….."

"There are no exceptions." Draco remarked smugly. "I am first and foremost in your life. Before all others. You are the one who said it. Granted, it was during one of our amazing sexual encounters, but still. From your lips to Merlin's ear."

"Hmmm. Let me think. I don't remember ever saying that to you. During sex or otherwise. What I do remember is you telling me that I'm first and foremost in your life. Before all others. While begging me to throw my legs over your shoulders."

"Really," said Draco capitulating. "Now that I think about it. It could have been me who said it. I can't help myself. Our lovemaking has that effect on me. I'll say anything. Have you eaten?"

"No. I haven't. I wanted to examine these files more closely. Have a look while I fix us something quick. What time are we meeting Theo and Blaise?"

"I told Theo 8:30-9:00. We don't have to stay too long. I know you have a big case tomorrow."

"That's so sweet. You've remembered my schedule. Just for that. I'll fix you something extra special."

With Hermione in the kitchen, Draco continued to speak, but in a low voice. "We will say hello to everyone, meet Ajay, have two drinks, and three laughs. Then we will come back here so you can rock me to sleep with your….."

"I can still hear you Malfoy. Don't make me come in there."

"Are you talking to me?" Draco asked in a voice full of mock surprise. "I've said nothing. I'm too busy reading this crock of shite in front of me."

/*/

Draco and Hermione continued their bantering all through their meal until Draco brought the conversation around to Betty Goyle.

"I like your suggestion."

"Which one?"

"I actually like several of your suggestions. I'm speaking now of your idea to have Theo read the riot act to the fucking tosspot solicitor who went before the court on Rebecca's behalf. It might make Theo feel better. I know it would make me feel better. I also notice your note. You have an appointment to speak with CW Grimsby. Does this appointment have anything to do with anything?"

"If you mean, does my appointment with the CW have anything to do with Betty Goyle? You are right in one. I will need to tread lightly, but I want to get my point across. Betty Goyle is as guilty as her brother and should not be released under any circumstances. I still can't believe someone accepted galleons to adjust Rebecca's charges. I plan to touch on that as well. I think we should get changed if we are expected at Theo's by 8:30."

/*/

Hermione and Draco were dressed and ready to Apparate to Theo's by 8:35, and knocking on his door by 8:45.

Theo called out. "Door is unlocked. Come on through."

"That wasn't very smart Theo," chided Draco. "These days you never know who will be coming through your door."

"Yes. Well. They would be at a disadvantage Draco. I have no fear of dying or drawing my wand. So, let them come. Enough of that. Hello Hermione love. Killed anyone with soft boiled eggs lately?" He asked reaching out to give her a hug. "Just kidding. Lovely to see you. Hello Mr. Malfoy." He said turning to Draco to shake his hand. "Lovely to see you as well."

"I'm happy you're in such a good mood because there is a small matter Hermione and I would like to run by you a bit later. Have Blaise and Ginny arrived yet?"

"Blaise is running late. He will be coming alone." Lowering his voice, Theo intimated that there might be trouble in paradise. "Come on through. There's someone I'd like you to meet. If he ever brings his arse out of the room. Ajay. Front and center mate."

"There are many remarks I could make." Jay retorted crisply. "You are very lucky there is a witch present."

Turning to face Draco and Hermione, Jay stepped directly on Draco's toes with his first comment to Hermione. "I am Ajay Patil. Parvati and Padma's cousin. You may call me Jay. A beauty is among us. Who might you be lovely lady?"

Theo grimaced. He had so wanted Draco and Jay to get along. Which wouldn't happen if Jay continued giving Hermione flirty sounding compliments. Clearing his throat, Theo spoke before Jay could step in it any farther.

"Draco, I'd like you to meet Ajay Patil. As you heard, he is cousin to Padma and Parvati. He's here for the next two weeks or so."

Draco stepped forward to offer his hand. "Nice to meet you Patil. There's no need for me to introduce my witch since you already seem so familiar."

Hermione who had put her hand on Draco's back as soon as Ajay made the lovely lady remark, hurriedly stuck out her hand. "Hello Ajay. I'm Hermione Granger. Nice to meet you. How are you finding London?"

"Pleasure to meet you Hermione. You may call me Jay. I am finding London as wonderful as I did the last time I was in your wonderful country. Even though it was a while ago, I lived here long enough to familiarize myself with many aspects. You had left for Uni by the time I arrived here, but your name was still very much on the lips of many people. How long have you been back?"

Draco stood by with a deep scowl on his face.

Before Hermione could answer, Blaise came through the door calling out a greeting to everyone.

"Ah. You made it Draco. Good man. I take it you've been introduced to Jay. Hello Hermione."

"Hello Blaise," Hermione answered peering behind Blaise. "Where's Ginny? I expected to have at least one witch to sit with me."

Blaise seemed to hesitate for the slightest second before replying to Hermione's question. "Ginny has been given an assignment in the field. She'll be gone for the next three weeks. It's me on my own until then. Can a wizard get a proper drink in this house, or will I have to head to the pub?"

All three wizards knew Blaise well enough to know he was pissed off about something, but trying to hide it.

A pissed off Draco and a pissed off Blaise did not bode well for their little get together, Theo thought as he summoned glasses, a bottle of wine for Hermione and whiskey for the gents.

"Have a seat and a drink. I asked Draco and Hermione here expressly to meet Jay. We got off to a bit of a tight start, but I'm sure it is understood that no one meant any disrespect or harm. With that said, I'd like to hear what you want to run by me."

Hermione shifted in her chair. She hadn't expected to explain her idea in front of a stranger. However, Draco came right out with his thought. "Personal matter mate. We'll discuss it another time."

Theo admired his mates, but his level of patience had grown thin since the loss of his wife. "I can vouch for Jay." He all but snapped. "He won't repeat a word of anything. Just explain. Please."

"Alright then." Draco replied realizing Theo was not having any petty bull shite. "It was Hermione's idea. I'll let her explain."

/*/

For the next twenty minutes or so, Hermione outlined how she had acquired information about Rebecca Farmer and Betty Goyle and what she would like to see done.

Her information perked Theo up considerably. "Brilliant idea Hermione. Will I be allowed to use my wand?"

Hermione stared at Theo until he backed down. "I was kidding about the wand, but I will make it my business to see this piece of shite. He's been to my home. He knew Padma. Yet, he let a few galleons turn his head. It will be my pleasure to confront him. In regard to your appointment with Grimsby. I am willing to write a note detailing why I think neither Farmer nor Goyle should be allowed to walk the streets of London."

Hermione was now excited as well. "Yes please. I'd love to have a note to present to the CW. I know you have a great many connections Theo. Is it possible you know the Kroekers? I think they should be informed of what their money has done for Gina's witch."

Blaise who had remained mute until this point joined the conversation. "I know Kroeker. He's an arse. Too much money and too little sense. I'll speak to him. I can guarantee Gina used her father's money and name, without his knowledge, to get Rebecca's charges reduced and pay that sham of a solicitor. The entire family is barking, but I'll set them straight."

Hermione's excitement was rapidly dwindling as she began to fear she'd created a few monsters. Draco noticed and threw his arm around her shoulders.

"Alright boys. It all sounds good, but if you don't calm down. I think Hermione will make you give a blood oath not to maim anyone."

The facial expressions ranged from Jay's slight smile to Theo's outright laughter. "Alright then," said Theo. "Set it up. I'll do a blood oath."

Hermione looked horrified until Theo burst out in another gale of laughter. "Come on Hermione. You know me better than that."

Hermione gave Theo a shaky smile. He was different since Padma died. She didn't know if he still had parameters.

It was a serious matter, but the content had got everyone talking among themselves, including Draco and Jay who questioned how they could help.

/*/

Before Hermione and Draco left, Theo wrote out a note to the CW. He also promised to let them know the outcome of his visit to the solicitor as well.

After saying their goodbyes, Hermione and Draco left the guys talking among themselves. They had then spent several hours bantering among themselves.

Blaise had a good laugh when Theo explained how Draco had gone all Malfoy when Jay tried to flirt with Hermione.

Blaise had some advice for Jay. "Draco is a great mate. He is completely different from the wizard who left London in 1998. With that said, I will admit he becomes a beast if he thinks someone is interfering with what or whom he considers his. He and Hermione went through a lot to get to where they are today. I know for a fact, Draco will not stand idly by while some wizard tries to chat her up."

Jay looked at Blaise in awe. "Chat her up? I was only being friendly. However, I realize how it may have looked to Draco. I meant no disrespect. I'll speak to Draco privately."

"There's no need to speak to Draco privately," offered Theo. "I think he got over himself as the evening wore on. Just don't try putting anymore of those bull shite moves on Hermione. She's not the one, and Draco is not the wizard."

"Fuck you Mr. Nott. Those weren't moves. I'm telling you I was only being friendly. From now on, I will keep my distance from Hermione Granger. Satisfied?"

"Satisfies me," shouted Theo in a burst of laughter.

"Sounds good," said Blaise before taking a sip of whiskey. "Now. This is where I get up to go home. I enjoyed myself. Why don't we have a quick meet up tomorrow to discuss how we made out with our tasks?"

Jay answered Blaise. "You all will have to excuse me. I have plans for tomorrow. Old friends and such. I may be away for the entire evening, but I'm sure someone will catch me up when I return. I'm ready to call it a night myself. I'll see you both on Saturday."

Blaise watched Jay as he walked away. "That's my wizard. I hope we weren't too hard on him."

Theo smiled at Blaise. "Of course we weren't too hard on him. We were just keeping him from ending up at the end of Draco's wand. No worries. Cely was probably somewhere waiting for her chance to wait on him. Don't forget that Jay was one of the Big 3. He'll be fine. I'll speak to you tomorrow."

Theo had a few more solitary drinks before summoning Cely to clear away. Once inside his and Padma's bedroom, he allowed the memories to wash over him. He missed his wife. He needed her.

Then, almost a week after he had laid his wife to rest. Theo allowed himself to cry.

/*/

Knowing Mr. Theo would not want her to see him out of sorts. Cely stood in the hall outside her master's door torn between wanting to comfort him yet wanting to give him his space.

Even though he was sometimes mean to her. She loved him as she loved Miss Padma. Mr. Theo was all she had left, and it twisted her insides to know he was suffering.