Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 49
After they finished up, Theo shook Declan's hand giving him a well done for his efforts before sending him out to the gardens.
A relieved Theo put Declan's wand in a desk drawer. His son was more aware than most seven year olds, but it wasn't because of any extra power. His son was a normal, boy wizard. Theo gave a soft thanks to Merlin as he pulled out several folders to review the properties he had for sale.
/*/
Hermione had found what she felt was a delightful gift for a seven year old wizard. A bound, pristine copy of The Tales Of Beedle The Bard. It would give Declan years of enjoyment. Just once it passed through Hermione's mind that maybe a book wasn't the best present, but she shook off the thought. Of course the book was a lovely present.
With her duty done, Hermione Apparated back to her office where she was approached by Terry from one side and Gloria from the other before she could hang her cloak.
Terry was beside himself. "Walter gave Gloria and I your message. I imagine it's about this bloody letter," he groused, holding up a piece of paper. "It's bull shite Hermione. You know it as well as I do."
"Allow me a moment to catch my breath Terry, and please shut the door."
Terry shut the door then he and a pink faced Gloria took a seat.
Pulling out her own letter and laying in front of her on the desk, Hermione looked from Terry to Gloria before speaking.
"These letters have opened a hellhole, possibly of my own making. Let me tell you how my day has been."
/
Returning To His Roots: Chapter 50
Terry huffed while Gloria remained mute.
Hermione wasn't amused. "Huffing and posturing won't get us anywhere Terry. The truth of it was you were going out with Della, now you're in a relationship with Gloria. Is there any truth to this letter?"
"Gloria and I have declared ourselves to you as asked. What else matters?"
"First of all Terry, that doesn't answer my question. Secondly, have you done right by Della?'
Gloria kept her head down with eyes on her lap, but Terry was angry.
"To answer your question Hermione, there is isn't any truth to that letter. Della and I were finished and I moved on." He snapped, gesturing towards Gloria.
Hermione took several seconds to form her reply. When she was ready to speak, the words came out as a torrent. "Save your rage for someone who will be impressed. For your cause, I humiliated myself in front of Kingsley today. I wanted to get in front of any disparaging reports that might come out of this piece of rubbish I'm holding in my hand. The Minister of Magic was very dismissive of me today He went as far as to suggest I move our firm somewhere where we could circumvent the rules willy nilly. So as your relationship flourishes, my level of respect diminishes. The sad part about it is I'm to blame. The right thing would have been to sack one of you. But, I didn't, so that ship has sailed. All this is to say that I might take Kingsley up on his suggestion to move the offices to another location."
Gloria finally spoke up. "There's no need to find a new location Hermione. I'm the last in, so I'll leave. With recommendations, I'm sure I can find a suitable placement."
Fairly shouting, and so incensed that spittle was flying from his mouth, Terry was now beside himself. "No Gloria. You aren't going anywhere. If you are made to leave, I'm leaving as well. Hermione gave us her blessings. If she didn't want Kingsley coming down on her, she shouldn't have gone to him in the first place. This business should have been handled in a different manner. This is bull shite. Really fucking sloppy."
Hermione was on her feet with wand drawn before she could stop herself, but Terry would not back down.
"Really? You think to hex me? Go ahead. Let's see where that gets you. Let's just see how the princess fares when she is brought in front of the CW. Go ahead, hex me."
Terry was right. Hexing him would only bring more problems. Laying her wand down on the desk, Hermione responded to Terry's tirade in a frighteningly cold voice. "You've had your say Mr. Boot. Thank you for your vitriol as well as your candor. You've become such a big man you think you can speak to me any way you like. My answer to that is fuck you. Whether you meant to or not, you've crossed a line with me that no number of apologies will ever undo. I know you very well. You will try to apologize, but don't bother. Never bother. Here's my plan. Since you are so disenchanted with my management style, I'll give you a choice. Turn in your papers by the end of the day, or I will sack you at the end of the day."
Turning to Gloria, Hermione spoke in a softer tone. "Mr. Boot was emphatic about what he would do if you were made to leave. I imagine you feel the same way. I'll make it easy. You have a choice as well. Turn in your papers by the end of day or I'll release you from your position at the end of day. And trust me. This is not bull shite. Close the door on your way out. Thank you."
Gloria tried to plead with Hermione. "Can't we…..?"
Hermione was having none of it. They wanted to be together, so they could be together at some other offices. "I've said everything I needed to say. Please close the door on your way out."
Terry stood motionless until Gloria took his arm to lead him out.
After the door closed, Hermione found herself gasping for breath. For several seconds it seemed as though she would black out. It was only after she grabbed her wand and uttered a strangled calming spell that her throat opened.
Taking a few deep breaths, Hermione began to contemplate the carnage that had gone on in her office. With her surge of anger abated, she realized her predicament. She had just sacked her two best Prosecutors. This was a shite show for sure. It would now be down to her and Justin to keep the office running. In addition, Walter was studying for a position within the Ministry. The office would be down three people. Basically, it would be her, Justin and the three researchers. She had some thinking to do, but first, she had to speak to Justin.
/*/
Hermione could tell by Justin's hesitant manner and wide eyed look that he'd been informed of what she'd done.
He shot to his feet like a rocket was tied to his arse. "Hermione! What can I do for you?"
"First of all Justin, you can take your seat. There is information I need to share with you about our staff. As of this evening, Terry and Gloria are no longer associated with Granger & Associates."
Even though Terry had come to his office in a rage explaining the situation, it was still a shock to Justin's system to hear the news from Hermione's mouth.
"I-I-I…."
Hermione held up a hand. "I haven't come to discuss what has gone before. I'm here to discuss how you and I will handle the cases we have going before the Wizengamot this week. After that…. Well after that, we'll see. We have cases tomorrow, Thursday and Friday. If agreeable to you, I'll take the morning cases and you may take the afternoon cases."
Justin was trembling. This was almost too much to absorb. He knew things had gone downhill between Hermione and Terry, but sacking him was something he never thought would happen. "That's fine Hermione. We'll make it work. If you need assistance in court, I'll be glad to sit second chair."
Justin's thoughtfulness brought a smile to Hermione's face. "Thanks Justin, but I'll be fine. I have things to think over tonight. I may need to call an all inclusive meeting tomorrow. You've always been there for me, no matter the situation, and I appreciate that. We'll get through this one way or another. Now I'm going to get myself a tea then get back to work."
Hermione was almost out the door when Justin called her name. "Hermione. Is there anything that can be done to change your mind? I mean about… about Terry and Gloria?"
"You're a great mate to Terry. Always there to take up for him. I hope he places the value in you that you deserve. In this instance, even a great mate speaking up for him will not change my mind. What's done is done."
Justin had no rebuttal.
/*/
Behind the closed door of her office, Hermione began to reflect on something that had crossed her mind a time or two. She wasn't that mesmerized witch anymore who thought the be all end all of life was prosecuting criminals. Maybe there was something else in the magical world which would suit her more. Hastily pushing that thought from her mind, Hermione mumbled that she shouldn't be getting ahead of herself.
She and Draco had plans to visit Theo and Declan, but perhaps she would stay at her own flat after instead of at Draco's. She needed to think, and didn't want any distractions, even one as sexy as her wizard.
/*/
Even with all the rubbish that had gone on earlier, the day seemed to speed by. At exactly 5:05, Walter knocked on the door frame.
"Excuse me Hermione."
"Walter! Come in. What can I do for you?"
Walter walked into the office with his hand outstretched. "I was asked by Justin to deliver these two envelopes on my way out."
Hermione immediately realized what the envelopes contained. "Thank you Walter. I'll see you in the morning."
"Right then boss. I'll see you in the morning." Walter walked away wondering if what he'd heard about Gloria and Terry turning in their notice was true. One of his first thoughts had been was he hoped not, but if the information was true, he hoped it wouldn't interfere with his future plans, or he'd be turning in his notice.
/*/
Back in her office, Hermione looked at the two envelopes as if they were snakes intent on biting her. She opened the one from Gloria first and caught the employee badge and access pass that fell into her hand. Gloria had remained professional. Her message was simple.
Please consider this my formal resignation from the position of Prosecutor at Granger & Associates.
Gloria Isles
Hermione put Gloria's note off to the side to open Terry's. Terry hadn't bothered to turn in his badge or pass, but his message was simple as well.
Shove the position up your arse. I quit.
Mr. Boot
The situation was not humorous, but Hermione smiled. It was obvious Terry was still in a rage. He had to be to put something that derogatory down on paper. In the past, she and Terry had laughed over this error numerous times when one solicitor or another had contacted them to share their anger over being bested. Never put anything down on paper in anger that can be held against you in the future had always been their mantra.
Hermione filled out forms which would revoke all access and privileges to Granger & Associates for Miss Gloria Isles and Mr. Terry Boot effective immediately. Even though she had done what she'd seen fit, the enormity of it all hit her as she sent out the Intra-Ministry packet knowing as soon as it was received, it would be stamped and filed. And that would be the end of it. Terry and Gloria could still enter the Ministry, but access to the Granger & Associates floor of offices would be blocked.
With a sigh that sounded a great deal like resignation, Hermione gathered up Declan's gift along with her own things. As she stowed her wand, Hermione was reminded how she had drawn it on her one time best champion, and was ashamed.
/*/
Draco wished Donald goodnight then stopped by Blaise's office to say goodnight to him as well. As usual, the office was empty so Draco headed to the lifts. His plan was to wait for Hermione at the back lobby lifts instead of going home then turning around to go to Theo's. It made more sense for them to go directly from the Ministry.
While he stood there waiting, Draco wondered if he should check on his mate Brian. He'd sent a card by Owl Services, but knew he should do more. After all, he'd been team leader when the accident happened and should take more responsibility for a wizard who didn't have any other family. Draco Malfoy couldn't believe his thoughts. He was thinking about the welfare of someone else. Who knew that would ever happen? He was in the middle of a laugh at himself when the lift doors opened, and out stepped Hermione.
Hermione who had been in deep thought stepped out of the lift in the middle of Draco's chuckle.
"Hello love," she said, automatically giving Draco a peck on the cheek. "What a nice surprise. You're in a good mood. Has Blaise come to his senses? I'm glad one of us has had a good day."
Taking Hermione by the arm, Draco asked how she could have had a bad day when she worked with her most ardent admirer.
At that moment, the enormity of the day overwhelmed Hermione and she teared up. "I sacked my most ardent admirer and his witch today."
Not really caring about the reason, Draco stepped in front of Hermione so no one could see her distress, Draco who was internally rejoicing over the news, kissed her on the forehead. "My apologies love for my untimely bit of humor. What did Boot do to get himself sacked from the best position he'll ever hold by the witch he most admired?"
Hermione sighed. "Not now love. We are expected at Theo's, and I want to be in good spirits when we meet Declan."
Draco didn't argue. All he knew was Boot must have really crossed a line if his best confidante had given him the push off. Draco wasn't a fan of public displays of affection in the Ministry, but he leaned in to put a quick kiss on Hermione's lips. "Alright love." He replied softly. "We'll discuss it another time. It's only 5:30 or so. Would you mind if we stopped by Brian's flat. I'd like to bring him dinner and check on him."
"I don't mind." Hermione agreed somewhat listlessly. "As long as we get to Theo's by 6:00. I do not like being late."
"Our stop will be quick. I promise."
/*/
And the stop had been quick. Donald was already there and had brought a dinner as well. So Draco dropped off the dinner and dessert, left a few irreverent remarks then he and Hermione had been on their way.
"Brian is mending well. Things could have been so much worse. I'll be glad to see the bloke back at work."
Hermione nodded. "I'm sure Brian will be glad to get back to work."
Knowing that whatever had transpired that afternoon at Granger & Associates was bothering his witch, Draco simply placed her arm in his then Apparated to Theo's.
/*/
Hermione turned on her brightest smile as she and Draco stood there waiting for Theo to answer the door. The smile was somewhat wasted as it was Cely who answered the door to welcome them in.
"Welcome to Nott House Mr. Draco, Miss. Mr. Theo asked you be brought through to the living room when you arrived. Please follow me."
Not wanting Hermione's current frame of mind allow her to bump heads with Theo….again, Draco gave her hand a little squeeze of assurance as they followed Cely to the living room.
Theo came towards Draco with his hand outstretched and Declan on his heels. He shook hands with Draco then stepped aside so Declan could do the same. Small wizard and big then turned to Hermione offering a small bow.
With a nod from Theo, Declan began to speak. "Welcome to our home wizard Malfoy and witch Granger. It's a pleasure to meet you both. We have prepared a lovely dinner for your visit. We will be dining shortly."
"Declan. You may call Draco Mr. Malfoy and Hermione Miss Granger. You may also beware of how loosely you hold your tongue. We've spoken about this. Please go get your Aunt Esther so she might greet our guests, then come back and have a seat on the couch."
Theo smiled and shook his head. "My son, the loquacious orator. He'd talk your ear off if you let him, but we're working on that. How have you both been faring? Let's have a seat in the living room. Would you care for a before dinner drink?"
Hermione didn't respond, so Draco answered for them both. "We've been well Theo. Thanks for asking, and a drink sounds fine. I'll have a brandy."
Turning to Hermione, Theo inquired why she wasn't very talkative.
Turning her bright smile back on, Hermione answered that he had caught her on Tuesday which was her quiet day."
"Theo laughed. "As if. But if that's your final answer, that's the answer we'll go with. Would you care for a white wine?"
"A wine would be lovely. Thank you."
/*/
By the time the drinks arrived, Declan and Esther were seated on the long couch alongside Hermione. Declan kept stealing glances in Hermione's direction before actually coming out with a compliment.
"You are lovely Miss Granger. My mother…"
"Enough Declan. I do not want to speak crossly in front of visitors, but I will if you continue to speak out of turn. Apologize."
Even after he'd been warned, Declan had an easy answer. "I don't want you to speak crossly in front of visitors either father. My apologies Miss Granger if I spoke out of turn."
Hermione reached over to pat Declan's hand. "I don't want to make your father cross either, but I will say that it was a lovely compliment. By the way." Hermione added, reaching into her beaded bag. "With your father's permission, I'd like you to accept this gift from Draco and myself."
Declan glanced at Theo who answered with an affirmative nod.
Accepting the package with a wide smile, Declan almost went spastic when he removed the wrapper to find the expertly bound, gold trimmed copy of The Tales of Beetle The Bard." Thank you so much Miss Granger and Mr. Malfoy. I've never had so many books in my life. I know this will end up being one of my favorites."
"That's lovely," echoed Esther. "Cely will be calling dinner shortly. Please put the book in your room for now."
"Yes Aunt Esther. I'll be quick. Perhaps after dinner you'll sit with me while I read."
"As long as your father agrees, I'll be glad to sit with you."
"Not a problem Esther, but not too late."
Declan gave a happy shout as he left the living room to put away his book.
Draco and Hermione gave each other a quick, puzzled glance. This Aunt Esther was entirely different from the witch who had upended the Repast for Padma.
Theo was not obtuse. He recognized the look between Draco and Hermione and lowered his voice to answer the unasked question. "Esther and I have come to good terms. We are family. Additionally, she has been an exceptional help with my son." He continued, emphasizing the words my son.
There wasn't any more time for Theo to expand on his comments as Cely called dinner.
/*/
Hermione did join the dinner conversation while Declan did not unless he was addressed directly. It was a pleasant meal which was over all to soon. Hermione and Draco followed Theo back to the living room, but Declan bid his father good night, thanked Draco and Hermione for his gift once more then grabbed Esther's hand leading her towards his bedroom.
After a bit of conversation and a last drink, Hermione and Draco bid their own goodnights to Theo. Outside, Draco was ready to turn into Apparition, but Hermione put a hand on his arm.
"A minute love. I'd like to spend the night at my flat."
"Alright then. To your flat we'll go."
Hermione tightened her grip on Draco's arm. "No love. If you don't mind, I'd like to spend the night at my flat alone.
The comment caught Draco off guard. "Alone?" He sputtered before catching himself. "Is everything alright?"
Wrapping her arms around Draco's neck, and laying her head on his chest, Hermione whispered her reply. "I have a big decision to make Draco. I'd just like to be alone to make it. I'll see you tomorrow after work."
Draco remained standing on the spot with his mouth hanging open. Hermione had just Apparated away without so much as an I love you or a kiss.
"Thinking my arse," Draco mumbled to himself. "This strange behavior must have something to do with that piece of shite Boot. I swear to Merlin, if he's asked to meet up to beg for his position, I'll curse the shite out of the bloody simpleton."
Draco didn't have a chance to further curse out Boot because Theo threw open the door wand in hand.
"Bloody hell Draco. I thought you were some stupid jackarse come to try his luck at dying. Why are you standing out here alone cursing up a blue streak? Where's Hermione?"
An embarrassed Draco told Theo Hermione had gone on ahead.
Remembering how volatile Draco and Hermione's relationship sometimes became, Theo decided not to pry any further. "Rather than stand out here acting like a villain. Why don't you come inside? I can put up with your company for a few more minutes."
Draco didn't have anything else planned, so he took Theo up on his offer even as he thought about what might be happening at Hermione's flat.