Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 37
Holding up a hand for Draco to stop talking, Hermione scolded him. "You want to know about Anthony. I'm telling you. About two months ago, he asked me to accompany him to the theater. An invitation which I declined. I didn't speak to him again until yesterday when I asked him to help me get DHG closed up. After getting that sorted, he invited me to have tea in his office. Which I did. He also inquired if I would like to go out for tea. It was then I should have mentioned that you and I are dating, but I didn't, because I wasn't sure we were still a couple. Fast forward to tonight and there you have it. When you stepped in the lift, I was helping him keep his distance. As fast as your assistants ran away, I realize it might have looked like something else entirely."
Draco didn't speak for several seconds, which annoyed Hermione.
"Well."
"Well what Hermione?"
"Well, there you have it."
Draco glanced at Hermione who was standing there with hands on her hips. "I don't know why you are standing there as though you are some aggrieved party. I simply asked a reasonable question about a wizard I found in close quarters with my witch. We will not turn this conversation into some kind of battle. I asked, you answered. I don't want it to seem as though I'm questioning you over every little thing. It's about us trusting each other."
Feeling a bit foolish, Hermione dropped her hands to her sides. She had been ready to get into a confrontation over something as simple as a question. A question she would have asked had the shoe been on the other foot.
Taking a seat beside Draco, Hermione laid her head on his shoulder. "How did we ever get on this subject?" She asked taking his hand in hers. "I thought you wanted some of my tea and cake."
"I do. I'll forgo the tea," he whispered, kissing her shoulder. "But I'll take all the cake you have to give."
/
Returning To His Roots: Chapter 38
After leaving Theo, Severus spent a good amount of time putting together the one thing he hadn't done, a tentative work schedule for the witches and wizards he was inviting aboard. He obviously couldn't set times throughout the day, and he didn't want to work only on weekends, so he did the next best thing. He set evening hours of 7-10 listing Monday through Thursday as the initial meeting days. To Severus, it was important they all get on the same page as far as rules and expectations go before getting down to any real studying. After that, it was feasible that different teams could meet on different days.
Severus didn't want to come off like a former professor, but there would be tests of sorts to insure the chosen people had at least some grasp of communications. The tests would also serve to show where each person should be placed.
By 11:30 pm, everything was in order for his meeting with Kingsley. Unsure if Kingsley would have others sitting in, the last thing Severus had done was use his wand to make additional copies of the presentation. There was no way he would embarrass himself by not having adequate copies for everyone in attendance.
After performing his nightly toilette ritual, Severus slipped into bed looking forward to finally sharing what he had worked so hard on these last two years.
/*/
Back from his walk, Theo sat down in what was to become Declan's room. He needed Padma so badly. He needed, needed her, but he needed her as well. Theo knew she would have accepted Declan without reservations, but she wasn't there. He was an arbitrary, sometimes abrasive wizard who had always needed his wife to temper his conclusions. What the hell was he going to do without her? What the hell was he going to do with Declan if Esther acted the arse? What would he do if Declan turned up with three arms or something?
Theo walked over to the window and was once again surprised to hear Padma's voice. This time, whispering in his ear.
"Have I taught you nothing love? Has everything we had together been lost with my death? You are not that hateful, arrogant wizard who threw insults at me before realizing you loved me. You have changed. I changed you. Don't despair. Even though I can't be with you physically, I'll help with Declan as much as I can. Just be strong. For me. Another thing love. Don't spend your life mourning me, or for what we might have had. Gregory Goyle ended our time, but he didn't end your ability to live. Find someone else. I love you Theo and you loved me, but you can't let the rest of your life revolve around me. Pay attention. Someone nice will come along soon. As for Declan, he'll be fine."
Theo knew Padma wasn't really speaking to him, but he took every word to heart. Declan would be fine, and he, he should live life. Theo figured Declan would be fine, but he didn't know if he could move on. Life was such a bitch. Exactly what was he supposed to do when he was still deeply in love with his deceased wife? What witch could hold up?
Waving his wand to turn off the lights in Declan's room, Theo walked slowly to the bathroom where he undressed to take a shower.
It would have been a normal shower, but Padma had followed him to the bathroom. As soon as Theo turned on the water, it seemed to him that Padma had taken him in hand as she had done many times before. As the water cascaded down on him, Theo could feel Padma's mouth and hands on him. His body reciprocated by hardening then releasing the liquids he had been holding in. As the last vestiges of semen spurt from his body, so did the last tears. When Theo stepped out of the shower, he understood what Padma meant. His life was in front of him. He would not be disrespecting her memory by moving on.
/**/
Wednesday dawned drizzly and gray.
Severus was up early.
After a lovely sexual interaction, Hermione and Draco were up early.
After a restless night, Anthony was up early.
Leanne was up early because she had to work, but left Jay sleeping soundly.
Donald and Brian were up early because neither wizard had been able to sleep.
Blaise, like Kingsley, was up early because he'd slept like a baby.
Theo slept in
The day was about to begin.
/*/
At OTS, Brian and Donald said nothing more than good morning to Draco before busying themselves around the office. However, they weren't far into it before Draco told them he wanted to address what they saw in the lift the previous evening.
"I don't know what you mean Draco," Donald answered wiping sweaty palms against his trousers. "Lifts aren't my thing. I often take the stairs so I won't intrude on assignations."
Draco frowned.
An embarrassed Donald rephrased. "What I meant was…."
"I know what you meant Donald. If I were in your shoes, I'd probably be acting the prat as well. I don't normally address my personal life with anyone, but we work together so I want to assure you that there is nothing amiss. Mr. Goldstein thought he was addressing a single witch. Hermione set him straight. That's the end of it. You may now feel free to breathe around me."
Brian shrugged. "I never felt as though I should pussyfoot around you. That's all down to king banterer Donald. Now that we have that settled, shall we get on with our tasks?"
"You disgusting sell out," snapped Donald.
Draco had remained agreeable until this point where he felt he had to step in. Drawing his wand and slamming the door shut with a crash, he snarled at both wizards.
"We are a fucking team. A good team. What happened last night has no bearing on what we do here. It has no bearing on you. My issues are not your issues. Get your shite together and let's get to work."
Donald and Brian began gathering their files and folders as Draco used his wand to open the office door. They hadn't made it out the door before Draco called them back to make a last statement. "It might not seem like it, but I do appreciate your concern. Thank you. Now let's get to it."
Even though the air had supposedly been cleared, the three worked on the cases in front of them without any discussion except what was absolutely necessary.
At 1:00, Brian and Donald decided to step away from the office to have some lunch and invited Draco to come along.
Draco declined but offered a snappy comment. "I'm sure that's just a throwaway invite because we all know you don't want to ride the lifts with me."
Never one to turn down a chance to exchange a smart word, Donald offered his own snappy comment. "You've got that right boss. I don't want to be locked in close quarters with you should something go wrong. You should have seen the look on your face last night, and that's all I'll say about that. Come on Brian. Let's get going before Draco decides he does want to accompany us to lunch."
"Can't say you didn't ask for that boss," added a smiling Brian. "We'll be back in a bit. Would you like us to bring you back some lunch?"
"No thanks my fine fellows. I need to step out for a few minutes. I'll see you both when I get back."
/*/
Draco made a few more entries before slipping his jumper over his head and grabbing his wand. He went to give Blaise a courtesy notice, but the office was empty, so he headed for the lifts. As he stood there waiting, Draco smiled to himself. He could only imagine the look he had on his face when those lift doors opened to reveal Hermione and Goldstein.
"My assistants are too funny," Draco mumbled to the empty lift as he remembered how fast Brian and Donald had backed away from the lift doors. "Dolts."
/*/
Five minutes later, Draco was entering The Wizarding Shop for Gentlemen in Diagon Alley intent on being measured for a few Basic Formal, Casual and Daywear suits. He was also intent on purchasing shirts, trousers, tees, jeans and underwear. All of which would be delivered to his home.
The knowledgeable shop attendant had Draco's measurements in under ten minutes, after which, he showed Draco to a back table where he could have a tea while choosing the materials for his new outfits. Draco sipped his tea taking his time to carefully choose the materials. By the time Draco finished his tea, his choices had been made. Nine suits altogether which he requested be spelled rain repellant. Another ten minutes and Draco had a large pile of items in front of him which would also be delivered. It had been a productive lunch hour.
Stepping out into the drizzle, Draco realized he was a bit hungry. However, instead of stopping for lunch, he decided he would stop for takeaway after work. Rainy nights were great for takeaway, cuddling and cake.
One last stop at a small florist shop where he ordered a lovely bouquet of flowers to be sent to the house for Hermione. Then he was done.
/*/
Severus took a last turn in the full length mirror and was quite satisfied with his appearance. If there was a day to make a good impression, today was that day. He had worked for two years to get to this place and an uneven tie was not going to ruin things.
Severus had a last cup of tea before gathering and shrinking the documents he would be presenting to Kingsley. Straightening his shoulders, Severus chided himself for acting the ponce. He was about to present a verified system that would enrich the Wizarding world. Whether Kingsley accepted it or not, it was a plan Severus would get put in place one way or another. The time for worrying was past. It was now time to sell himself and his project.
/*/
Percy Weasley was standing in Anthony's office when Severus walked up. After shaking hands with both wizards, Severus was asked to have a seat while Anthony went to check with Kingsley.
"I'll just go and inform the Minister you are here. I'll be sitting in on this meeting as well."
Severus sat there stewing during the five minutes Anthony was gone, but managed to regain a reasonable temperament by the time he returned.
"The Minister will be a few minutes," Anthony explained. "In the meantime, there are a few things we should go over before the meeting."
Severus tried his best not to be annoyed as he sat there wondering what there was to go over with Anthony. Anthony was an assistant. Severus' business was with the Minister.
Noticing the slight frown on Severus' face, Anthony began talking.
Severus sat quietly as the somewhat pompous Mr. Goldstein nervously explained his decision to review the documentation was being done to save time.
When Severus finally spoke, it was not good for Anthony.
"I'm sitting here listening to you go on and on about how much time you are saving Kingsley when I had an appointment for 10:00, and it is now 10:15. It seems to me you are the one holding up the Minister's day. I'm versed in the area of presentations. Therefore, I don't see any need for you to review anything. If it isn't a prerequisite that you interfere before I'm allowed to see the Minister, I suggest you stop your posturing and take me to him."
Anthony wanted to respond in kind, but he didn't. Kingsley wasn't quite ready for Severus as he was in the middle of drafting a quick letter to the Governors, but he hadn't authorized any review. Anthony had taken it upon himself to question Severus. Looking back at the decision, Anthony realized it hadn't been such a smart one.
"The Minister wasn't quite ready for you Severus. I only meant to…."
"It doesn't matter what you meant to do Mr. Goldstein. What you have done is annoy me. First off, my time is as valuable as yours. If I wanted a cozy chat with you. I would have Owled ahead. Secondly, I am a punctual man. Which, in my estimation, is a common courtesy. Yet you have me sitting here twenty minutes beyond my appointed meeting time. Should Kingsley comment on this fact, I expect you to explain your decision to have me sit in your office for a review."
Without responding to Severus' comments, Anthony stood. "I don't think it will come to that Severus. Please follow me."
Severus followed Anthony into Kingsley's office where he greeted the Minister before being shown to a chair at a large, square, wooden table.
"Nice to see you Severus. I apologize for the wait. As none of the Governors has made an appearance this morning, I had to send a quick reminder of this meeting. Forgive me for saying so, but some of our Governors would prefer the Wizarding world never move forward, which is something I intend to change. Anthony will be sitting in."
Kingsley's last statements didn't sit well with Severus who had been under the impression his work would remain confidential at least until he had a working model in place. Never one to mince words, Severus questioned the need to have so many people involved at the outset.
"Anthony please step out. I'd like to speak to Severus privately. Thank you." Taking a seat across from Severus, Kingsley started with a smile. "I understand your reservations. Let me assure you this is your project. You won't get any interference from anyone. However, with that being said, I want to remind you that will take a great many Galleons to get this project off the ground and keep it going. I'm sure you'd be the first to agree that not many would not sign off on something without at least a basic knowledge of what the project entails. In addition, as I mentioned, there are some who are against any sort of progress. From what we've discussed, I'm entirely in your corner. However, nothing will be done in secret. Secrecy does not bode well for any Administration."
"Of course," Severus responded quickly. "I realize we don't want to appear as though we are trying to pull off something underhanded, but at the same time, I'd rather we keep proprietary information away from the public for now."
"And we shall Severus."
At that moment, Anthony returned to tell Kingsley that three of the Governors were waiting.
"Thank you Anthony. Hand your desk over to Percy for the moment, then show the Governors in."
Severus was still aggravated but realized this was not the time to be antagonistic. This was the time to get a stamp of approval for his project.
/*/
Hermione arrived at her desk to find six new cases laying there. It appeared that OTS had been working overtime. Sifting through the cases, Hermione picked up four and headed first to Terry's office where she dropped off two, then to Justin's office to drop off the other two. She planned to have Gloria work with her on the remaining cases. Gloria needed the experience and Hermione welcomed the help.
Gloria was excited to be invited to work on a case and appeared notebook in hand at Hermione's office door.
"Hello boss. I'm ready for my close up."
Hermione smiled. "Muggle movie fan then Miss Isles?"
"I am. Although I don't spread my peculiarities around. What are the cases we'll be working on? Something scandalous I hope."
Before Hermione could speak, Gloria backtracked. "My apologies. I know better than to make light of any case that comes through our door. I'm sorry."
Hermione handed both cases to Gloria. "Take these back to your desk, review them, write up case notes then come back to see me. We'll go over your findings. Thank you."
Gloria took the two folders, but hesitated before leaving the office. "I won't disappoint you. I promise."
Nodding her head, Hermione gave a short answer. "That's what they all say. Have the cases back to me before end of day."
Gloria left the office hoping that the foot she'd just put wrong wouldn't spoil things between her and Hermione.
/*/
After a quick lunch, Hermione was on her way to the loo when she ran into Justin.
"Good afternoon Hermione. The trial went well today. The Wizengamot saw fit to convict the slimy blighter on every last count. No one will be seeing him for at least five years."
Hermione smiled at her most conscientious prosecutor. "If I might point out, that little spot of doubt you had was about nothing. You are an amazing prosecutor. My offer is still open. If there is something you want to discuss, come see me."
"I'll remember that for the future. Thanks Hermione. I saw the files you left on my desk. I'll get to them when I get back from lunch. I'm famished."
"Have a good lunch. I might call on you to sit in with myself and Gloria this afternoon. I've given her two cases to work up. I'd like your input on her work. I'll let you know."
Justin acknowledged Hermione's comments. "My pleasure. See you in a bit."
After finishing up in the loo, Hermione sat at her desk wavering on whether or not she should go see Anthony. Even though she wouldn't ever accept a date with him, Hermione felt she should have been more forthcoming. She owed Anthony an apology.
/*/
Esther was feeling the best she had in years. The pain she had suffered most of her adult life had been reduced to almost nothing. She had to practice walking upright as opposed to bent over, but she was coming along. Healer Stevenson was a miracle worker. At least, she thought he was a miracle worker. Esther admitted to herself that there might be a number of miracle workers in the world, but she never had the means to contact any of them.
Then she thought of Theo.
Theodore Nott, Jr. Her enemy and her savior. She wouldn't ever say that to him, but that was exactly what he was. No matter that he was only helping her so she would be able to take care of her son. He hated her, but he had saved her. There were so many emotions running through her body. She was in her forties and hadn't ever had anyone come to her rescue. It was hard to know how to feel, but as each day passed, she was becoming more willing to believe she had stumbled upon a miracle.
Esther had just finished dressing after her medicinal bath when Healer Stevenson knocked then popped his head in the door.
"Good afternoon Miss Nott. How are things today? Are you ready for your final procedure? After today, you will be back to as near normal as possible. Even so, I would suggest your nephew allow you to rest for one more night. He will be able to take you home as early as he likes in the morning. I will say you have been a very charming patient. I'll have transport sent to your room so we can get started."
/*/
Esther was finished with her last treatment by 3:30 and was resting peacefully when Theo knocked on the door.
"Come in."
Theo entered the room to find a somewhat drowsy Esther reclining on her bed. "Hello Theo. I've had my last treatment. Although I'm a bit drowsy, I'm feeling top of the world. Please, have a seat."
Theo entered the room and took one of the chairs situated against the wall. He had already spoken to Healer Stevenson and was pleased that Esther was on the mend and could be discharged in the morning. However, being on the mend and being willing to accept her child were two different things. Theo was glad he and Esther would have almost two days to figure things out.
/*/
As Theo sat there, he had things swirling through his mind. Things like paying off Conor Byrne to say what he wanted him to say. Yes, he'd done it, and would do it again. Declan had enough strikes against him without coming to London thinking he was some piece of shite throwaway no one wanted. So he'd paid Conor to lie. It wouldn't be the first lie in his life. As long as Declan got started on the right foot, it was worth it.
Esther appeared to have fallen asleep so Theo got ready to leave. "I'll see you at 9:00 tomorrow morning. Please be up and ready. We will be returning to my home. There are quite a few things to go over before Declan sets foot in London. I've done my part. I expect you to do yours. I'll settle the bill in the morning. Be ready for the next step. I'll see you in the morning."
Esther sighed and opened her eyes. The time was drawing closer. In two days she would become a mother again, for the first time. It was all Esther could do to keep the trembling from circulating through her body knowing trembling was the least of her problems. If she couldn't or wouldn't treat Declan in the proper manner, she knew Theo would wash his hands of her, and that was something she didn't want.
/*/
Hermione decided she would go speak to Anthony. It was only right. He could accept her apology or not, but she would have done the right thing.
Hermione didn't know how Anthony would take her apology after seeing how her disclosure about dating Draco had upset him. Anthony wasn't in his office, but Percy was quick to advise Hermione she could leave a note because Anthony was in an extended business meeting with the Minister.
"Thank you Percy, but I'd rather speak to Anthony in person. I'll try him later."
"Suit yourself Hermione. I'll tell Anthony you stopped by. Oh, wait a second. The door to Kingsley's office just opened. You may be able to speak to Anthony right now."
Percy was right. The door to Kingsley's office had opened and five or six wizards, including Severus and Anthony, were heading down the hall.
Severus nodded but kept going towards the lifts. The Governors nodded and greeted Hermione, but kept going as well. Anthony stopped in front of Hermione.
"Good morning Hermione," he remarked in a slightly curt tone. "I hope you're not here to offer me another opportunity to assist you, because I'm quite busy at the moment." Turning to Percy who was still standing by waiting to hear what Hermione had to say, Anthony snapped at the junior assistant. "Standing around in the hall while half the Board of Governors passes by doesn't look good for you or for me. If you don't have enough work to keep you busy, may I suggest you check with Hermione. I'm sure she has something to fill your time."
Percy knew he shouldn't have been idly standing about, but didn't know why Anthony was so angry. It was a simple matter. Hurrying back to his own office, Percy decided he would speak to Anthony after Hermione left. He was tired of being snapped up over every little thing.
Hermione was there to apologize, but she didn't like Anthony's tone or attitude. Following him into his office, Hermione asked if she might close the door.
"Why?"
Hermione snapped right back. "Why do people normally close a door? I'd like to speak to you in private Anthony. A simple yes or no will do."
Anthony stared at Hermione for a moment before gesturing for her to close the door. Returning to his normal, professional manner, he asked Hermione how he could help her.
"I'm not here to beg any favors, if that's what you think. I'm here to apologize for not being as open and forthright as I should have been. When you asked me out to tea, I should have informed you Draco and I are dating. You and I have been friends and colleagues for too long to be at odds over an oversight. I wasn't trying to come across all cunning or clever. I didn't think it was important. I was wrong."
Nodding his head, Anthony gave Hermione a reluctant smile. "Although this has put paid to any thought of us getting together, I appreciate the explanation and the apology. It also gives my self esteem a bit of a boost. I'm a likeable chap, so I couldn't figure out how you could resist going out with me. It was down to me thinking I had bad breath or something."
Anthony laughed right along with Hermione when she told him his breath was just fine. They conversed for several more minutes before Hermione thanked him for his time and rose from the chair.
"Thanks for seeing me Ant. Have a pleasant day."
"Ah," replied Anthony, getting hastily to his feet. "You haven't called me Ant in an age. Does your use of that pet name mean I should keep the door open for the future?"
With a smile so wide it extended from cheek to cheek, Hermione responded with a bit of cheek. "I want to be open and forthright. That answer would be no, but thanks for asking. Take care Anthony."
Anthony watched Hermione until she turned off to the lifts before sitting back down at his desk. So my lovely crush is dating Malfoy, he thought. Nothing I can do about that, but she hasn't seen the last of me. Not with Kingsley wanting me to be on Severus' telecommunications committee. Surprise Malfoy. I'm going to be sitting next to your witch.
/*/
Donald and Brian were hard at work when Draco returned to OTS. In fact, the next case was ready to be presented to Blaise.
"Nicely done," commented Draco as he took the folder to his desk. "I'll take this one to Blaise. We may not get into the field tomorrow, but we should be fine for Friday. I'll be frank with you both. I hope our next case is somewhere other than Wales."
"Agreed," answered Donald.
"That would be ideal," added Brian. "There must be crime in other places."
Draco laughed as he finished signing off on the case in front of him. "While I don't wish crime on any specific area, I'm in total agreement about Wales. I'm taking this case to Blaise. Be back in a bit."
/*/
Two members of Team2 were in with Blaise when Draco appeared at his door. However, Blaise gestured for Draco to step in.
"We are finished here Draco. Please come in." The two agents from Team2 nodded at Draco as they left the office.
Laying Team3's latest case in front of Blaise, Draco then took a seat. "It's my turn," Draco said with a smile. "I promise not to give you any back and forth. After this, we have one more case which should be ready by tomorrow afternoon."
Blaise smiled as he took the file from Draco. "You've been my mate for a very long time, but if you had come in here acting like Donald, I would have called MLE to arrest your arse."
Draco shrugged as he smiled at his superior. "Fuck you Blaise. We're the best team you have. Just see to my case."
Blaise studied the case then studied it again before making a reply. "Perfect mate. I'll get this up to your better half as soon as I can. Shall we Owl Theo for a men's night? He might need a bit of support with all that's going on in his life right now."
Draco stood. "I'm going to pass for tonight Blaise. Hermione and I are going to spend a quiet night in. Maybe tomorrow."
"Alright. Just make it before Friday, because this weekend I'm going to Scotland to show my witch a good time, and that's not negotiable."
"Understood mate," Draco replied. "We'll do it tomorrow night. You aren't the only one who will be busy this weekend. Theo has big shite to contend with. If you can, stop by the house. It's takeaway night. I'll speak to you later."
Draco returned to the Team3 offices to find Brian and Donald packing it in for the night.
"I'll see you guys in the morning. Blaise was chuffed with what we presented. If we are on point tomorrow, I think Friday might be a short day. Have a good night."
"No worries Draco. Brian and I love short Fridays. We'll see you in the morning."
/*/
Draco remained at his desk tidying up a few loose ends. By the time he was through, his Wonder Wizard Watch was showing 6:50. Jumping up, Draco gathered his belongings and hurried to the lifts. His whole intent was to be home with the takeaway before Hermione got there. To Draco, takeaway and flowers meant lots of cake, and to him, his witch gave very good cake.