Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 28
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.
//
Returning To His Roots: Chapter 29
When Hermione and Draco landed at Draco's house, she walked straight through to the bedroom stopping only long enough to lay her purse, wand and jumper on the bed before heading for the bathroom.
Draco stopped in the kitchen to grab two bottles of water and a bowl of walnuts. Walnuts were a guilty pleasure he'd picked up while living in Switzerland. He didn't indulge often, but he kept a container of walnuts on hand. Surprisingly, Hermione liked to snack on them as well.
Draco was just about to put a handful of nuts in his mouth when he realized that Hermione was standing outside the bathroom with hands folded across her chest.
"What?" He asked, knowing full well why Hermione was giving him the stare down. He had fucked up by coming off rude to Ajay.
Hermione continued to stare at him without uttering a word.
With a resigned sigh, Draco walked over to take her in his arms. "Could you possibly unfold your arms so I can get close to you?"
Wrapping her arms around Draco's waist, Hermione looked up at him. "Nothing really needs to be said. I can tell by your demeanor you realize where you went wrong tonight."
Pleasantly surprised that Hermione wasn't going to belabor the point. Draco simply replied. "I do, and it won't happen again. Unless…. Unless some other bloke tries to flirt with you right in front of my face."
Hermione gave Draco a sharp pinch on the arm. "I'm trying to be nice Draco. I'm a grown witch who is able to back off any wizard I feel is trying to overstep. This was not the case this evening. Jay just seems like a friendly person. There was no need for your flippant remark. The reason I choose to be subtle about the incident is because you did treat Jay decently for the rest of the evening. Now. On to other things. Thank you for bringing me walnuts. I haven't had any in a while."
"You are my queen. Bringing you walnuts is the least I can do. I also brought you water." He added with a smirk.
"Thank you git. Will you please let me go so I can get in bed?"
"Of course. I'm quite looking forward to bed. Shall I pull back the blankets for you?"
"You do know you're bordering on obnoxious right now. Don't you? Now move aside. I'd like to get some sleep before dawn breaks."
Draco grabbed Hermione from behind as she passed by and nuzzled the back of her neck while murmuring. "Obnoxious, am I? Let's climb into bed. I'll show you just how obnoxious I can really be."
"Dream on Malfoy. You won't be showing me anything tonight. I want to be at my best and brightest tomorrow. I have dragons to slay, so I'd like to get plenty of sleep. Put me on your card for tomorrow night. If you're good, I'll show you so much unrestrained passion. You'll pass out from exhaustion."
"I'd rather pass out right now." Draco mumbled under his breath. Which caused Hermione to giggle uncontrollably.
"What is wrong with you tonight?" She asked still giggling. "I was under the impression Malfoy men don't have a sense of humor."
"We don't. I want sex with you so much. I've obviously lost my mind. So why not help this wizard out? I'll only take a little. You won't even have to move."
Hermione had already settled herself in bed, but leaned up on her elbow to look at Draco. "What in hell was in that whiskey? You've got two choices love. You can get in the bed, or you can get in the bed. I'm tired. I'd like to get some sleep."
As he undressed, Draco told Hermione he obviously wasn't the only one with a sense of humor. "I have two choices huh? Get in bed, or get in bed. I choose the former. I'll get in bed, but only if you keep your bossy arse on your side of the bed."
Once Draco was in bed and had moved as far to the edge of the bed as possible. Hermione began to giggle again. Snuggling right up behind Draco, she threw an arm and a leg over his body. Reaching down, Draco pulled Hermione's hand to his mouth and kissed it.
"Goodnight Miss Granger. Sleep well."
In return, Hermione kissed Draco on the shoulder returning his sentiment. "Goodnight love."
The only passing out done that night was them both passing into sleep.
/*/
Even though Blaise had enjoyed being with his mates, he was tightly wound because Ginny was weighing heavily on his mind. In the months they had been in a relationship, he had grown used to her being beside him in bed and with him in the day to day. He had even grown used to their arguments. Sometimes, he'd say things he knew would get Ginny stirred up. He liked it when she was feisty. Feisty, yes. Mean and arbitrary. No.
Their last argument had been ridiculous, but perhaps he could have been more understanding. Maybe it did seem as though he was being disrespectful by shagging her then getting up to go out. That was not the way he had meant it to seem.
Blaise sighed in frustration. He hadn't ever given himself to a witch as he had to Ginny. It was actually a learning experience for him. The witches he used to surround himself with didn't question, or sulk, or pout. It was understood. All they were doing was having fun. The tables had turned. In his relationship with Ginny, he cared.
Blaise summoned a glass and poured himself a whiskey from the bottle he'd left sitting on the table. Then sat there with mental pictures of Ginny bombarding his thoughts. As he sipped, Blaise came to a conclusion. He would apologize then see where it went from there. Blaise knew by apologizing for doing nothing wrong. He'd be giving Ginny a little more of a hold over him. After this apology, she'd probably expect him to either go along with whatever she wanted, or have an apology at the ready anytime they disagreed.
Then, Harry Potter popped into Blaise's head. The end of his relationship with Ginny was an open secret. Most people knew Harry had cared about Ginny, but at a certain point. Harry wouldn't accept her bad behavior and erratic actions. Blaise took the last sip from his glass wondering if he and Ginny were getting to that point.
/**/
Friday morning, Draco left a quick note for Hermione wishing her good luck in court and telling her he had to make a quick stop by Malfoy Manor to check on Elder and Missy as well as check for mail from his father. He would see her later that evening.
It was a quick Apparition from his house to the Manor. Even after reading and answering his parents letters, Draco was in and out with plenty of time to spare before he due at the Ministry.
There was a letter from his father and a separate envelope from his mother. His father questioned every facet of Draco's discussion with Kingsley, but ended up agreeing to Kingsley's request. Draco was to have Elder and Missy open up the North Wing for Severus and see to his needs as well. But, as expansive as his father was being. He wanted Elder to lock off his and Narcissa's personal areas. The East and West Wings were off limits to everyone, including Severus Snape.
Lucius also made it clear that Severus should be quick about finding a permanent place of residence. The letter had gone on to advise Draco that word about the purchase of his new home and his new relationship had reached him.
Lucius chastised Draco a bit for purchasing a home without discussing it with him and his mother. However, by the end of the letter, Lucius was congratulating Draco on making a smart investment.
He didn't offer any additional thoughts about Draco's relationship with Hermione.
Putting his father's letter to one side, Draco opened the letter from his mother expecting a small tirade about him dating a muggleborn. If nothing else, his parents were predictable about keeping the bloodlines pure.
Draco sighed. Keep the bloodlines pure. With whom? Some vapid witch who would spread her legs to make the next pureblood child then dismiss him to a bedroom as far away from her as possible. Draco didn't think so. He'd found his witch and planned to stand firm. Even if it meant going against his parents.
With that in mind, Draco began to read the letter from his mother. Much to his surprise. Narcissa congratulated him on his choice, but also offered cautions. Her exact words were: As much as I'd hoped you'd find a pureblood witch. I am delighted you found a brilliant witch. Is this serious? There's no need to hurry into a permanent relationship. We'll see you in two months.
Draco's jaw dropped to his chest. Had his mother given some kind of consent?
Draco called Elder to give him Lucius' instructions before answering the two letters. Elder was back to confirm that the East and West Wings were sealed to anyone but Mr. Lucius and Miss Narcissa and the North Wing was open and ready for Mr. Snape before Draco got his last letter in an envelope. Draco also reminded Elder to adjust the wards so Severus would have access.
Elder was quick to tell Draco he had reactivated Mr. Snape's original wards profile, so he wouldn't have a problem Apparating into the Manor.
Knowing the Minister wanted news as soon as possible, Draco sent Kingsley a detailed message confirming Lucius had consented to give Severus a temporary place of residence.
All three letters were on their way before Draco flooed through to the Ministry where he met up with Donald and Brian. He only took the time to grab his kit and other essentials before they all headed out to do some reconnoitering. Back to Wales they went.
When they landed, Donald jokingly asked if anyone else noticed that the magical people of Wales seemed to be trying to corner the market on violence.
Even though he had thought along the same lines, Draco didn't see the humor. "Save the jokes for later Donald. It's Friday. I really don't want to be here all day."
Donald and Brian followed meekly behind Draco without saying a word. It was obvious their boss was trying very hard to get into one of those not so pleasant moods.
/*/
Theo had let his emotions out the previous night, and was feeling better than he had in days. As he gazed in the mirror while straightening his tie, he felt good about where he was going and what he was about to do. This was something he could do for Padma. The rubbish solicitor, Marshall Springer who pretended to be their friend was in for a harsh awakening.
/*/
Blaise was of a like mindset to Theo. He had people to see, but unlike Theo. He had a department to run. After a staff meeting where he informed the teams he would be out of the office until mid afternoon or later, and a short discussion in which Draco briefed him about Severus. Blaise was off to see Andrew Kroeker to get some answers.
/*/
Hermione slept on after Draco left, waking up to find his note. Well. My wizard is raring to go this morning, thought Hermione. I think it's all down to me not wearing him out with sex. She laughed all the way to the shower.
After her shower, Hermione felt the beginnings of the bout of nerves she got before every big case. Hermione and her team were always well prepared, but the acid in her stomach invariably began to churn as she got ready for court. However, once she stepped inside the courtroom. It became another matter. Her case of nerves disappeared and she became the penultimate prosecutor.
She, Justin and Terry hadn't won all the cases they had prosecuted, but they had won a fair few. That's the way it went. Win some. Lose some. Hermione knew they might not win the LeClair case, but no one would be able to say she and the team hadn't given it their best.
Hermione gathered her things in preparation of Apparating to the Ministry. Ten minutes later, Hermione was stepping off the lift making her way to her office. Gathering the files, notes, photos and evidence bag, Hermione was ready. Terry, Justin and Gloria soon joined her in the office.
"We are going to keep it cute. Justin opens. Terry, you'll present, and I'll close. Take notes Gloria."
Gloria held up her note pad and pen. "I'm ready Hermione. Good luck to us."
"Yes." Hermione replied. "Good luck to us. Let's get going."
/*/
When the four entered the courtroom, they weren't all the way to the Prosecutor's Table before the CW was gesturing for Hermione to approach. It appeared luck was something they would not need that morning.
Justin and Terry glanced at each other knowing something had gone down, but Gloria was first to speak. In a low voice, she commented how it seemed as though someone had taken a plea. Justin who looked at Gloria with a bit of admiration was quick to agree.
"I'll bet even money the two flunkies have admitted to the greater charges thereby absolving LeClair of anything significant," offered Justin. "Any takers?"
"I agree with you both," added Terry. "The truth is, they know Hermione has every vile thing committed to memory and would have let it all out in front of LeClair's pureblood peers and colleagues. As they say in Muggle movies. The fix is in."
When Hermione came back to the Prosecution table, it was obvious she was not happy about something. "Here's where we stand. LeClair and his yes men opted early this morning to throw themselves on the mercy of the court instead of going through a trial. Arse 1 and Arse 2 pled guilty to all major charges. Etienne pled no contest to the lesser charges. The two have been sentenced to seven years each in a French prison with their British citizenships revoked. Etienne has been sentenced to one year in the French prison. His British citizenship has also been revoked. Of course he plans to appeal. They got off easy."
"We all knew the case could go sideways." Terry remarked scornfully. "Wealthy wizards have their ways. I'm glad the court saw fit to give LeClair some prison time. With his citizenship revoked, we won't have to worry about him trafficking witches in London anymore."
As far as Hermione was concerned, Terry had just said the wrong thing. They were in the middle of the courtroom, so Hermione couldn't respond to Terry the way she wanted. Instead, she asked how long he'd been a prosecutor. That along with a severe roll of the eyes told Terry he'd made a foolish assumption.
Hermione told Justin, Terry and Gloria they could return to the office. She would remain behind to collect all their evidence, notes, files and photos that she had asked to be permanently attached to the court findings.
Gloria spoke up again to offer her insight. "I imagine you are having that done as evidence of what really went on. In case somewhere down the road LeClair tries to have his sentence overturned or waived altogether."
"Smart girl," replied Hermione beaming at her newest Assistant. "I won't be too long."
"How disappointing," murmured Justin. "All our work down the drain. So to speak."
"I believe all your work will stand up if or when LeClair tries to get his sentence overturned. I've read that the French take a much harder line with criminals. LeClair will be lucky if they don't add to his sentence."
"You're right Gloria." Terry remarked listlessly. "We would have put them on their arses had they let the case be taken to trial. On to the next then."
/*/
Hermione returned to the office cursing under her breath. What a farce. Once again a wealthy piece of shite seemed to have used money, or something tangible, probably a young witch, to buy his way out of trouble. She was glad LeClair had received some prison time. As little as it was.
As Hermione sat silently fuming, Gloria entered carrying a cup of tea. Speaking softly as she set the cup in front of Hermione, she made her boss smile. "I wish this was white wine instead of white tea." Stepping back, Gloria took her blank notepad from under her arm. "Well this was a bust. I still intend to make notes on what went on. The notes just won't be what I expected. Thanks for the almost opportunity."
Hermione laughed for the first time that morning as she parried Gloria's remarks. "Well almost Assistant Prosecutor Isles. One good thing came out of all this. The CW will definitely be able to see me at 4:15."
Both witches laughed as Gloria gave a wave and headed back to her desk.
/*/
Kingsley sent an International Direct Owl to Severus as soon as he finished reading Draco's message that morning. Now all Severus had to do was accept Lucius' invitation. Kingsley had thought to help make Severus' return an easy one. Yet he hadn't considered whether Severus would accept something akin to charity. It wasn't charity, but Severus probably wouldn't see it that way. All Kingsley could do was hope time and a new name had somewhat softened the old bastard.
/*/
Kingsley didn't have any reason to worry. It had all been hashed out beforehand. As soon as Lucius received Draco's original letter, he had gotten in contact with Severus. The two old friends had hashed everything out in two Owls. Lucius had offered and Severus had accepted.
/*/
In Oregon, Brendan Eilson, now returned to Severus Snape was doing what he'd been doing a lot of lately. He was taking in the scenery from his favorite place on the back porch. Reminiscing? Possibly. There was a lot going through his mind as he held Kingsley's letter in his hand. Everything was set. He had a temporary home in Malfoy Manor. Which he knew. An entire wing to himself. Which he also knew.
Severus smiled as he ran his hand over the letter. Until he had purchased this Oregon property. He'd never had an entire anything to himself. Kingsley had mentioned other available options as well. Hopefully those options would give him a well paying position. He wasn't wanting for money, but neither was he a man who would sit around on his arse while others provided food and lodging. He wasn't some poof.
Severus had closed down his shop and sold the content and premises at a quick, but profitable sale. That part of his duties was done.
Then there was the name thing. It was a bit more intricate to change back to Severus Snape yet be able to keep the honors and accolades of Brendan Eilson. But, he had worked that out as well. It was a matter of reversing his life. Brendan Eilson was now listed as nothing more than a pseudo name, if you will, for the former professor Severus Snape.
Severus hadn't packed anything. Even though he had set everything in motion for his return to London, he still had his doubts. It would be easy to step off a portkey. How easy would it be to step back into his old life? It was true he had been exonerated after the fact as had many others. He hoped exoneration equaled acceptance. How foolish would it be for him to give up a perfectly good life in Oregon only to go back to hell?
Kingsley made it sound easy. Severus hoped that was true. He did so want to go back to his homeland and be able to enjoy the wonders of England. He also wondered if there was a stick of wood still standing at Spinner's End. Spinner's End. Why did he even care? It always had been and always would be a dank hole in the ground. No matter how much his mother had cleaned or he had cleaned. It had always stunk of stale whiskey and desperation.
Severus' laugh came out as more of a growl. I am sitting here acting like an uninitiated thirteen year old. I've made a decision. That's it. What I need to do is get up off my arse and pack. He was about to stand and get on with his tasks when a voice called out.
"Hello. Coming through. I hope I'm not disturbing you. I thought I'd stop by to see how things were coming along."
It was Jean.
Severus sighed. This was unexpected. They had spent Saturday together. He was under the impression they might see each other before he left for England, but he hadn't decided. There wasn't any reason for him to decide now. She was here.
Severus stuck a finger into the neck of his tee pulling it away from his neck suddenly feeling as though the shirt was choking him while Jean proceeded through the house still calling out.
"You must be out back. I should have known."
"Yes Jean. I'm out back. Come on out and have a brandy with me."
Finally, she was at the door to the porch. "Well hello. For a moment, I thought you might be out."
Severus was a little annoyed by the intrusion, but would never be gauche enough to be impolite to his paramour. "Nope. My somewhat lazy arse is out here debating on whether or not to get up to start packing."
There was a brief moment of silence as Jean digested what Severus had said. He was ready to start packing. When they last spoke, there was still hope he would remain in Oregon.
"So." She said, calmly picking up a glass to pour herself a brandy. "It's for certain. You are moving back to England."
Another sigh from Severus. Softer this time. There they were…..again. He not knowing what else to say to make their parting less painful for Jean. She speaking with that tremor in her voice.
Severus poured himself a glass of brandy, walked over to Jean then held up his glass. "Let's have a toast. To good friends near and far."
Jean gave a wan smile, but said nothing. She clinked her glass against Severus' then took a sip. "It's getting late. I'll be on my way. Happy packing." She added in the same tremulous voice.
To this day, Severus doesn't know what possessed him to voice his next words. "London isn't that far away. Two port keys and you would be there in hours. When I get myself situated, I'm hoping you'll come for a holiday."
Jean gave a brighter smile this time, but only answered with a short sentence. "That would be nice. Goodbye Severus."
Then she was walking towards the front door. Once again, Severus wondered if he was turning away a chance to be with someone who loved him. And once again, he told himself no.
After draining the last of his brandy, Severus went to pack up his things.
/*/
Theo didn't know exactly what he would say to Springer, but he would be emphatic. Theo felt as though Marshall had broken some unwritten rule when he agreed to assist Gina Kroeker. How many times had Padma welcomed the son of a bitch into her living and dining rooms? How many times had he eaten her food, used her facilities? It was abhorrent to Theo that the same wizard who had kissed his wife on the cheek would disrespect her memory the way he had.
Walking into the waiting area of Marshall Springer, Solicitor for the Defense, Theo took a deep breath and approached the receptionist.
"I'm here to see Solicitor Springer."
"Do you have an appointment sir?"
"I do not." Theo answered briskly.
The receptionist took a deep breath of her own before proceeding. "May I have your name and what this is regarding?"
"Theodore Nott. I'll tell him myself what this is regarding."
The receptionist bristled over Theo's answer. She couldn't abide the filthy criminals who came to the office without an appointment yet carrying an air of entitlement. They annoyed her to no end.
/*/
Five minutes later, the receptionist was back with Marshall Springer following in her wake.
"Theo. How are you?" Asked Springer extending his hand to Theo. "I didn't have a chance to speak to you at the Repast. I hope you know how sorry I am for your loss."
Theo ignored Springer's outstretched hand and his pleasantries as well.
"I'm here for a purpose Marshall. Shall we get to it?"
Looking puzzled, Springer invited Theo to his office.
The receptionist who now recognized Theo wasn't happy with the curt way he was treating her boss, but kept her eyes down knowing the man was probably still suffering over the loss of his wife.
/*/
Once inside his office, Marshall who was a bit apprehensive over Theo's demeanor championed on. "What's on your mind Theo? You seem distressed."
Theo pushed aside the inquiries getting right into the reason he was there. "It's my understanding that through Gina Kroeker you were instrumental in getting Rebecca Farmer out of custody."
Marshall was getting nervous. He had. "It's true. I assisted Miss Kroeker. I didn't see any harm…"
The composure Theo had been fighting to keep slipped away. For the next few minutes, Theo scornfully accused, baited, and threatened the solicitor over what he deemed circumventing the law and disrespecting his dead wife as well.
Initially, Springer tried to parry Theo's remarks, but hastily backed down when Theo's eyes took on a deadly glare. Marshall began to stammer. "I.. I.. I w-was doing a favor."
"You fucking liar," screamed Theo. "You were lining your pockets. I came to tell you to your face. I will not let this stand. If at the end, you are stripped of your license. So be it. You will not fill your Gringotts account by slimy, stealthy and devious actions. My Padma lies dead and you have worked to free those who are accused of assisting her killer. Not while I have breath. You have been warned."
As Theo walked across to the door, Marshall tried to explain his position, but Theo was past listening and turned back with a growl.
"You are fucking lucky that a very savvy witch gave me a talking to. Otherwise, my hands would have been around your neck when I first walked through your door. Expect repercussions."
Theo opened the door so forcefully. The knob made a dent where it hit the wall.
/*/
The receptionist hurried to Springer's office after Theo slammed out of the building inquiring if he was alright. "I heard the shouting and threats. How dare he? Shall I report him to MLE?"
Marshall Springer was frightened. He'd been caught out. He gave his receptionist a set of curt orders. "You will not make any report. You will forget what you heard and get back to your duties. Clear my calendar. Order two open port keys. I have taken a case which necessitates my being elsewhere."
"There isn't any new case on your calen…"
"Just do as I asked." Springer shouted at the bewildered witch as he began clearing his drawers. "Just go do it."
The receptionist hurried back to her desk to order two port keys, wondering what in Merlin's name was going on.
/*/
At 4:15 exactly, Hermione appeared at the door of the CW's office, and his assistant ushered Hermione right in.
"Hello Hermione. Come in. Have a seat." He said with an odd grin. "I imagine Gloria gave you my message yesterday."
"She did sir. And my response was, I didn't realize our CW had jokes."
CW Grimsby actually laughed out loud. "That response is as good as any. I really expected you to come huffing through my door. Anyway, before we get into what you need from me. Let me say I know how disappointed you must be over the outcome of the LeClair business. I am meant to be impartial, but I could have happily hexed the smug smile off LeClair's face. I've tied up things as tightly as possible. Anyone reading the file will know exactly what transpired today. Hopefully, we've seen the last of him for a while."
"Thank you CW. We win some and we lose some. What I wanted to speak to you about is two other slimy tossers. I have information that there has been some back door dealings with regard to Rebecca Farmer. I also want to mention that Betty Goyle is casting about trying to get the same deal as Rebecca."
The CW sat up straighter in his chair. "Let's hear it Hermione." He replied with a definite scowl forming on his face. "I'm always at my charming best when I learn someone has circumvented or is trying to circumvent me."
/*/
Hermione spoke so quickly that at one point CW Grimsby asked her to slow down and back up. Which she did.
One piece at a time, Hermione revealed all she knew about Gina Kroeker, Andrew Kroeker and Marshall Springer. Then let him draw his own conclusions as to how Rebecca's sentence got reduced.
After she finished speaking, Hermione handed over the note Theo had written. Sitting quietly, Hermione watched as CW got the gist of the message.
It took Mr. Grimsby all of fifteen seconds to read Theo's message. After which, he grabbed a sheet of paper and started scribbling. He then called his assistant, handed him the folded sheet of paper with orders to get it to Minister Shacklebolt as quickly as possible.
Hermione was amazed at how seriously she was being taken. She had expected some head nodding and soothing words. Never this. Although he tried to control it, Hermione could see that the CW was beside himself.
After a few deep breaths, he told Hermione he agreed with Theo Nott. "Neither of those witches should be freely walking the street. As for who was paid to change the findings for Miss Farmer. We will get to the bottom of that as well. I appreciate you coming to me with this Hermione. We will find solace for Theo, justice for Padma and bring down repercussions on those who deserve it. The one thing I ask is for Theo and Blaise to step away. I understand they may have already approached the Kroekers and Springer. However, I need them to refrain from taking any more actions. I have staff for just this sort of thing. Thank you again for trusting me with this information. My staff and I will take it from here."
Hermione knew when she was being dismissed, so she stood to leave. As she left Grimsby's office, she was almost run down by a very angry looking Kingsley who greeted and thanked her as he passed.
Hermione's heart was pounding as she headed to the lifts. What a can of worms she had opened. But, as an Officer of the Court. She stood by her decisions.
/*/
Back in her office, Hermione began to worry about what Theo and Blaise might have done, or what they might do. She quickly wrote out two short, identical notes. One for Theo. The other for Blaise.
Theo/Blaise:
I have spoken to the CW about what we discussed. He has asked that both of you step away. What's done is done, but do not take any further steps. Grimsby has called Kingsley into this as well.
Theo: Your message left a great impression on the CW.
Hermione
Placing the messages into two separate envelopes, Hermione hand carried them to the office owl services where she sent them off Wizard Direct. If Blaise was in the building, the message should get to him almost immediately. If not, the owl would find him wherever he was. As it would find Theo. Wherever he was.
/*/
Blaise wasn't as subtle as Theo. He had tracked down Andrew Kroeker, grabbed him by the collar, revealed the reason he was there then asked for an explanation of why he'd paid off some miscreant to get Rebecca Farmer's charges reduced.
Andrew huffed and puffed at the accusation, assuring Blaise he didn't have any idea what he was on about.
"Well then," said Blaise straightening Andrew's collar and patting his shoulders. "We have a problem. If it was done without your knowledge, someone, I assume your daughter, has made a grave mistake. I would like to speak to her about the actions she took to help Rebecca Farmer."
"Ugh!" Andrew replied with a scowl. "I don't care much for that Farmer witch. My daughter is no saint, but I fear she is being led astray by the foul witch. Forgive my language."
"Language is the least of my worries Andrew. I want an explanation of how this all came about, and I'd like it now. If Gina is not here, Owl her. Now please. I have other places I need to be."
"Before I do anything. Let me say I don't appreciate the way you are treating me in my own home. If Gina has done something, we will get it sorted. I imagine she is at work. I'll Owl her to see you when she can."
Blaise's resting face turned into a scowl. "You know what Andrew? If you think you are being cunning or clever, fine. She works in Magical Transportation. I'll find her there. One way or another. She will explain to me her level of involvement in getting a person accused of being an accessory to murder out of jail. When I find out, my next stop will be CW Grimsby to report my findings."
"I'm not being cunning or clever. I have no reason to be. As I said. Whatever has happened. We will get it sorted."
"I don't think it will be as simple as that Andrew. I believe Gina is in a ton of trouble. However, I do apologize for barging into your home. I suggest you keep a better eye on either your Gringotts vaults or your daughter. Have a good afternoon."
Blaise was frustrated. He had invaded the home of a wealthy citizen for nothing. If Andrew chose to report him, he could lose everything he'd worked for. His next step would have to be a little less dramatic.
With a stomach growling as loudly as a Malfoy rant, Blaise stopped off in Diagon Alley to have a bite of lunch. He ordered cold tea, a nice ham and egg sandwich with a lettuce and tomato salad on the side. After his lunch, Blaise who felt full to bursting decided to walk back to the Ministry.
/*/
Once back inside the Ministry building, Blaise went directly to OTS instead of stopping by Magical Transportation. He'd been gone most of the afternoon. Before he did anything else, he was going to check his department which was priority number one.
Blaise hadn't been seated for more than a minute when the first of several agents appeared at his door requesting his signature on a case that had been cleared. The last agent sat down in front of Blaise at 4:45 and left without a signature due to an obvious omission in the file.
When Blaise realized the time, he sent a quick inter-Ministry message to the Head of Magical Transportation requesting that he ask Gina Kroeker to remain behind because he needed to speak with her.
Several minutes later, the last agent returned with his paperwork in order. Blaise signed off on the case then hurried to the lifts. He was halfway to Magical Transportation when a Wizard Direct envelope crashed into his shoulder.
"What the fuck?" Blaise swore softly under his breath, noticing that Hermione's name was scrawled across the back. "What now?" He huffed. "I need to…" He stopped short after reading Hermione's second and third sentences.
He has asked that both of you step away. What's done is done, but do not take any further steps.
He, meaning CW Grimsby, had asked him and Theo to step away.
"Dammit!" As much as Blaise wanted to go through the doors of DMT to confront Gina. He had been warned away. He placed the message back in the envelope then into his inside pocket.
Now what? Now he had to go inside to explain he no longer needed to speak to Gina. Which he did.
The Head of DMT gave Blaise a sharp look, but did nothing more than make an observation. "There's a load off my mind Agent Zabini. I thought you might be trying to poach one of my staff."
"Please. Call me Blaise. That's not how I work. I don't chase staff. They chase me. Thanks for your time."
/*/
After Blaise left, the dark haired witch who had been standing just out of range, walked over to her Head. "What did Blaise Zabini want with me?"
"I have no idea Gina. He didn't say. Whatever it was. He doesn't want it any more. Thank you for waiting around. I'll see you on Monday."
Gina hurried to the lifts. Her mind hastily replaying her day. She hadn't put a foot wrong, but Blaise Zabini was a no nonsense wizard. There had to be a reason he asked to see her.
Gina began to wonder if Rebecca had somehow gotten her involved in yet another stupid mess. She hoped that wasn't the case. Having had to shag a filthy dick dragger and give him galleons in the bargain to get Rebecca out of trouble had been disgusting and more than enough to get on with. Just thinking about the bloody, pig of a wizard heaving and straining on top of her body made Gina want to vomit. Her body was meant to please witches. Not dick draggers.
Out front of the Ministry, and with bile still churning around her stomach. Gina spoke out loud. "Never again. If Rebecca is into more shite, she'll get herself out."
Embarrassed about talking to herself. Gina peered around hoping no one had noticed before quickly Apparating away.
/*/
The Friday workday was coming to an end, but Draco, Donald and Brian were still in Wales having decided to sort out three cases instead of coming back on Monday and Tuesday. If they collected information on all the Wales cases that day, they would not have to go back into the field until after the cases were turned over to Blaise. Barring any emergencies. That would mean almost a week in the office doing follow up. After spending the entire day in Wales, a week in the office sounded inviting.
With everything finally collected and bagged, Draco who had been mostly quiet the entire day offered his thoughts. "I guess I have to agree with you Mr. Macomber."
"About what Draco?" Replied a tired and cranky sounding Donald.
"About what you said this morning. It does seem as though Wales is trying to corner the market on violence. We are finished here. I'll meet you back at OTS."
"Yes. See you in a bit," replied Brian.
Donald said nothing as he shrunk everything down. Draco had acted as though something was wrong the entire day. Only speaking when spoken to and the like. Donald didn't feel it necessary to respond to Draco's throwaway comment now. It was Friday. They had been in the field all day. All he wanted was a hot shower, a tasty bit of food, a tasty bit of witch and a drink. Fuck his boss' non-tantrum tantrum. He, Draco and Brian were a crackerjack team, but sometimes he didn't like Draco very much.
/*/
When all three were back at OTS, Draco held the obligatory end of week meeting to go over any issues. He had been quiet most of the day, but was very surprised when Brian addressed his behavior instead of Donald.
"We had a good week Draco, until today. I don't mean to be disrespectful, and I won't belabor the point because it is 7:30 on Friday. I'll just say. If there are problems with either myself or Donald, please speak on them. We're big boys. We can take it. If there aren't any issues, please act like we exist. With that said, I'll wish both you gentlemen a good night and a good weekend."
Donald smiled in Brian's direction as he listened to the shite that would normally come out of his own mouth. Brian had obviously grown a pair.
"Thank you for speaking your mind Brian. I was so absorbed in the essentials. I didn't realize I was excluding you. It's my belief that both you and Donald are superior assistants. Most of the time, there is nothing I could add to make you any better. I've never been one for a lot of small talk, but going forward I'll dazzle you with so much petty bull shite. You'll be wishing I kept my mouth shut. Enjoy your weekend gents. See you on Monday."
With Draco's mea culpa, Donald didn't feel cranky or tired any longer. All he felt was admiration for his colleague Brian.
"Alright then Draco," said Brian. "See you on Monday."
"Yes boss," said a beaming Donald. "We'll see you on Monday. Have a great weekend."
/*/
Draco had a few more things to tidy up. After which, he went to speak with Blaise who wasn't in his office. Draco locked up his desk then headed for home thinking he would speak to Blaise later.
He and Hermione were scheduled to meet with Blaise and Theo that evening. After that, they might go out to dinner. But before the night was over. He was going to get some that Hermione love. Having Hermione show him so much passion he would pass out, was right up his alley. Best of all. She had already promised.