Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 62
Draco eyed his witch. She was full of nervous energy. "This is only the beginning love. What you do in the coming weeks may not be where you ultimately end up. Customer support might be fine for now, but you'll go mad being a subordinate. It's a top of the line position for you, or the mental ward, either one."
Hermione danced away from Draco's grasping fingers, answering his drivel with drivel of her own. "Subordinate? Go made, will I? Top position, or mental ward. You have me pegged Mr. Malfoy. I'll always strive for top position, or haven't you noticed."
Draco grabbed a giggling Hermione and pulled her onto his lap. "Now that you've mentioned it. I have noticed your proclivity for being on top."
"Let go of me you prat. I have to go get ready. I want to be camera ready when the Daily Prophet reporters turn up to take my photo."
"You know you're barking, right?" Draco called to Hermione's back. "You'll be lucky if Jean allows you to work an entire day before chucking you out."
Hermione turned on the shower, but called back loudly. "Really git? First, she'll have to put me on suspension."
"Hahaha Granger. Is that supposed to be funny? I'm going to get an early start. I'll see you after work. Takeaway for 8:30. Have a good day."
"Good day to you too Draco. I'll see you tonight."
/*/
Even though it was early, Draco planned to stop by the manor. He had mentioned stopping by for Sunday dinner, but other things had popped up. A small smile appeared on Draco's face as he turned into Apparition. A very big Malfoy thing had popped up.
/
Returning To His Roots: Chapter 63
Draco did stop by the manor, but it was evidently too early for his parents. The house was very quiet. Draco left a note in his mother's sitting room apologizing for not making it to Sunday dinner promising to make it the following Sunday. He then had a quick tea and piece of toast before apparating to the Ministry.
/*/
Even though his first client wasn't until mid afternoon, Theo rose early specifically to give Mick and Conor a shout. It wouldn't do for either of the Byrne men to be late. Conor to his new position and Mick to his early interview. Theo promised himself this would be the first and last time he'd check on the grown men, but for now his name was on the line. If either brother messed up, it would be him Severus and probably Jean would track down.
Before stopping by either uncle, Theo peeked in on Declan who was still sleeping. His boy. His handsome boy. Padma would have loved him. Padma. His lovely Padma whom he had chased away with his self serving arrogance. So strange how she was adamant about him finding a loving witch and up pops Gloria. Theo let out a loud sigh. Gloria was a beautiful, intelligent witch, but….. But, there was something going on. Declan seemed to have a problem with her. Even though Declan and Gloria had assured him there wasn't anything wrong between them, he knew what he knew. Something was off. Breaking out of his reverie, Theo moved down the hall.
Sticking his head into one bedroom after the other, Theo realized at once his interference wasn't necessary. Both beds were empty and each shower running. Heading back to the kitchen, Theo asked Cely to make a grand breakfast for her family of wizards. By the time Mick and Conor were dressed, the food was on the table.
"Top of the morning to you Theo. The breakfast smells aoibhinn."
"Good morning Theo. In case you don't recognize the word. My brother said the food smells delicious. He's probably not aware as of yet that you are unfamiliar with some Irish terms. Be that as it may, Cely has put together a fine smelling breakfast."
Mick gave Conor a slight eye roll but kept his mouth shut.
"Good morning gents. I may not have recognized the word Conor, but I understood the sentiment. Have a seat. I know you both have early schedules so eat. Please put a plate aside for Declan Cely. I'll have a bit now, but wait for my son to have a full breakfast. So, are you chaps looking forward to your day?"
Mick glanced over at Theo. "Just so you know how serious I am. I'll let you in on a secret. I'm wearing my lucky boxers. They're covered in shamrocks."
Both Theo and Conor laughed out loud.
"Thanks for that bit of information Mick," replied Theo still chuckling. "However, it will take more than lucky underwear to get on the good side of Severus Snape. Just show your best self and go from there."
Conor was nodding at the words coming out of Theo's mouth. "You'll do fine brother, especially with this grand breakfast under your belt. Myself, I'm excited to see what Severus and Miss Bradford have in store for me. I heard that Miss Granger might be heading up The Department of Magical Technical Servicesat the Ministry. I wouldn't mind working along side her to get some knowledge in the business end of it."
Theo hadn't been prepared for this bit of information, and his mind had gone straight to Draco. It would probably be fine Conor working with Hermione, but Conor would do well not to specifically ask to work with Hermione. That would bring on a Malfoy tantrum of vast proportions. "I imagine you'll just have to wait and see where you'll be placed. For now, you'll probably be working at Wizarding Communications Systems. It was my understanding that Jean and Severus want to get WCS off to a rousing start before staffing the Ministry department. However, they will advise you what's what. I'm going to check on Declan. Good luck to you both. I'll see you this evening."
"Thanks Theo."
"Yes. Thank you Theo. Shall I bring anything in with me?"
"No Conor. Just bring yourself. The house is well stocked, but thank you for asking. Now is the time to start putting away your Sickles. You don't want to be stuck to me and Declan for the rest of your life."
Conor grinned. "So my invitation to remain here as long as I like has been rescinded then?"
Theo clapped Conor on the shoulder. "Of course it hasn't. I've given my word, but it wouldn't be a bad thing for you and Mick to open an account in Gringotts. You know. For the future."
"Alright future man. As soon as I get my first pay, I'll be sure to visit the bank. At that time, I may need you to accompany me as I find Goblins quite scary."
Theo just shook his head. "Nonsense. I don't think there's much that can scare a Byrne."
"True. Very true," remarked Mick. "My brother is becoming an Engl-. My brother is having you on. I'll be leaving now that I've almost put my foot in it. Wish Declan a good day for me. If all goes well, I should see you shortly with a position under my belt. Good day to you all."
/*/
Conor knew he might be stepping into private business but he had to voice his opinion for Declan's piece of mind. "I have a few more minutes Theo. I'd like to share some thoughts."
"Why the face Conor? We won't be drawing wands, will we? Share your thoughts."
"Last night while you and Declan were in the den, Gloria and I had a conversation."
"Okay."
"If I may be frank, the conversation annoyed me. Gloria had the idea you were in the den to scold Declan. I didn't like her assumption but kept my mouth closed. Then I seemingly asked the wrong question. Did she have children? She nearly fell over Theo. Her response was Merlin no, and I'm not looking to have any anytime soon. Then she asked about Padma. I told her I hadn't had the pleasure of meeting her. I also commented something along the lines of a good witch taken way too soon. This is the part that galled me most of all. Gloria replied it was a shame Padma wasn't more versed in using a wand because she could have saved herself. I didn't respond in the manner I would have liked because she was your guest. However, Mick overheard her comments and answered quite roughly. He told her he thought someone trying to get into your good graces would refrain from implying Padma wasn't smart enough to save her own life, or discussing your deceased wife with anyone except you. I chastised Mick, but I felt like an arsehole because I should have said something along those lines."
Theo remained silent so Conor continued.
"You know what Mick is like. He apologized, but commented the subject was no business of his or mine. I might be wrong Theo, but I believe Declan can feel that Gloria isn't chuffed being around him. Knowing him like I do, I figure he won't reveal his feelings so you won't be upset or annoyed. That's the long and short of it. I apologize for being so frank, but I love Declan and don't want him tiptoeing around because a witch doesn't like him. It's time for me to get to work. I'll see you tonight. I hope I haven't overstepped."
Have a good day was all Theo could think to say to the spot where Conor had last been standing. A few errant thoughts began to roll around in Theo's head, but a washed up and dressed Declan appeared in the doorway.
"Good morning father. Is that the breakfast smelling so good? I'm hungry. Will you be eating with me?"
"Good morning son. Cely made you a lovely breakfast. I was just waiting so I could eat with you."
"Thank you father. I like it when we eat together. Have the uncles left already?"
"Good man," replied Theo reaching over to run his hand through Declan's hair. "Yes. The uncles have gone. After breakfast, I'd like to have a talk with Cely then you. After that, we will visit the barbershop in Diagon Alley to get that hair cut."
Ignoring the part about another talk, Declan remarked that a visit to Diagon Alley would be welcome.
/*/
Draco came through the door calling out a greeting to Brian. "Welcome back dumbarse. Donald and I are convinced we can dress you but can't take you anywhere."
"Very funny Mr. Malfoy. I for one will not be taking any further shortcuts. I looked like some kind of pink niffler. I was glad for the visits, but I want both you and Donald to know it was hell putting on clothes to receive visitors. My entire pink body tingled at the slightest touch."
"Tingled is it?" Quipped Donald with a side glance at Draco. "With the grunts and groans emanating from your mouth, I thought your sensitive skin was about to start peeling off in strips. Nonetheless. I'm very glad you're back. We can get back to some sort of normalcy. Draco and I didn't want you to feel unloved, so we have left tons of mundane shite for you to work on."
They had bantered around enough. Draco thought it was time to get started. "Alright men. Let's get to work. There'll be time enough to take the mickey out of Brian. We have an entire week."
"Only a week? I call foul." Donald called from the hall. "Oh Brian. Don't forget to check the mail morning, midday and afternoon. We wouldn't want anything important to get by us."
"Sod off Donald. Don't worry about my work. Worry about your own."
"ENOUGH!" Shouted Draco. "It's time to get to work.
Blaise suddenly appeared. "Ah!" He exclaimed, stepping out of his office. "The dulcet tones of Team3. If you don't have enough to keep you busy, I can help with that."
None of the three said a word because they knew their superior was quite correct. The time for messing about was long over. The work week had begun.
/*/
When Mick appeared for his interview, the building was fairly quiet. There were a few people here and there which gave Mick the idea that WCS wasn't all that of a big deal. He only had to wait about five minutes before Jean Bradford came out, introduced her and invited him into her office. Mick had an answer for every question. Jean, as she asked to be called, was thorough and friendly. Best of all, she thought he would fit right in with the wiring section. After concluding the paperwork, the interview and explaining the pay rates, Jean asked if he would be willing to start training right away. Mick acquiesced.
"Lovely. As you know, this is a fledgling company where issues will not be tolerated. Do what is asked and you'll be fine. There are quite a few new faces including your brother so you aren't alone in this. I'm going to put you with the senior wirers where you'll be taught your duties. Listen up and study up. Make WCS proud. One more thing before I release you. You'll need a strong wand hand. If you've let your skills lapse, I suggest you work on them. That's all I have. Let me take you over to wiring to introduce you."
Mick was chuffed. He'd landed a job with a reputable company and was on his way to his first paycheck. Jean was two steps ahead of him, but he had to take two steps back. The fairly quiet, fairly empty building was now a bustling little city. There were people everywhere. Mick was quick to notice the select groups of witches and wizards who appeared to be part of training groups. Mick caught sight of Conor and gave a small nod. Conor grinned and nodded back. By the time Jean dropped him off in the wiring area, Mick had seen several people he'd previously met including Gloria Isles, Hermione Granger and Cassie Graham. No Parvarti though. No matter that he didn't see Parvarti. With a steady paycheck coming in, he would keep his promise. He would conduct himself as any good wizard would and ask her out on proper dates.
Jean introduced Mick around and left him to learn.
/*/
Hermione was excited to find out where she would be placed and a bit deflated when she was shunted to a training group beside Conor. Hermione perked up quickly when she learned she would be part of two groups. The WCS group setting up new accounts and customer numbers, and the Department of Magical Technical Services. Before she could come to her senses, Hermione had grabbed Conor by the arm.
"Long days and long nights ahead of us Conor. I'm chuffed. We will be the pioneers."
Not wanting to be disrespectful, Conor didn't mention Hermione's hand on his arm but he did give it a long look. Hermione hastily removed her hand when she realized she was manhandling Conor.
"Sorry Conor. I'm just so excited. Until we hear more, it will be you and I setting up a brand new department. I can't wait to tell Draco. I should Owl him. No, I'll tell him tonight. Well come on. Lets go get started on our menial job so we can start roughing out our big job."
Hermione had gone into overdrive.
"I like your enthusiasm Hermione. We are going to be magnificent. I wonder who else will be joining us in DMTS. I hope whomever they are they'll be brilliant like us."
Hermione chuckled softly. "That's my hope as well." From the corner of her eye, Hermione could see Gloria gazing in their direction and couldn't help thinking, yes dear. I'm back on top again. As she and Conor approached the work space for their menial job, they were joined by Cassie, Gloria and the others who had been chosen for the jobs.
Everyone had just started their tasks when Anthony appeared at the door. "Good morning team. Let me congratulate you all on being hired at this marvelous company. I'll also extend an extra congratulations to Hermione and Conor who will be joining me in setting up a brand new Ministry department. Congratulations to you both. I know you'll be straight out, but keep in mind we'll need to choose additional people to work the department."
"Thank you Anthony. Conor and I are chuffed to have been chosen."
"That we are Anthony," added Conor. "We'll be brilliant and only hire brilliant people."
Anthony responded in a professional manner, but was unhappy that the handsome Mr. Byrne seemed to be getting quite chummy with Hermione. That he didn't like at all. Perhaps Conor shouldn't be part of the new department. Anthony gave Hermione a soft tap on the shoulder as he circled the room checking on the work.
Conor was a grown wizard who had often found himself in different situations immediately recognized that the arrogant Mr. Goldstein might have designs on Hermione. "Not good."
Conor had not meant his comment to be heard, but Hermione had heard. "Is something wrong Conor? What's not good?"
"Everything is fine. Thank you. Just thinking out loud." Across the room, Cassie gave Conor a sly wink which he didn't return. This was work. Not the time for winks.
/*/
For such a fastidious wizard, on Monday, Severus was running hither, thither and yon trying to get as much accomplished as possible. He had first stopped at Owl Services to send off a very large order of necessary supplies. He crossed over to muggle London to browse an electronics shop to get some idea of what their mobiles looked like. Severus was pleasantly surprised by the size of some of the newer models, and purchased five different models. It wasn't cheating. If the models could facilitate his builds, he welcomed the insight. His thoughts were to give a muggle mobile to each of his teams to see what they could do with them. If one of his enterprising staff could reconfigure a model so it would work magically, so much the better. There was absolutely nothing wrong with being able to offer more than one type of magical mobile. Severus was annoyed he hadn't thought of purchasing muggle mobiles before. With all the work he, Jean and the workers had put into building from scratch, it would aggravate him to no end if simple, magical adjustments could be made to the bloody, muggle mobiles.
Severus' next stop was The Ministry where he would ask Anthony to give him a tour of the DMTS offices, stop by Magical Transportation to get floos set up and Magical Legal Offices to make the company and department name changes. Anthony turned his office over to Weasley and had been glad to assist London's newest magical star. He and Anthony, who insisted he see Severus through all his tasks, got everything accomplished. Severus was on his way back to WCS within two hours.
/*/
When Severus arrived at WCS, one of his first thoughts was to get the conference room set up for Kingsley and the Board's visit in the morning. The appointment was scheduled for 11:00 am. Figuring on thirty minutes for a tour, that meant lunch had to be offered. They would need to put a working lunch together. Sandwiches, salads, tea, drinks and a few sweets should be enough. The Board consisted of wealthy wizards who could afford to buy their own lunches if they didn't get their fill.
Jean was on the floor overseeing the wiring department. Hailing her, Severus asked if she would come to his office.
Jean appeared at his door five steps behind him. "Hello Severus. I hope your morning went well. I have a few things I'd like to go over with you if you have the time."
"My morning was very productive. Might we put your things aside for a bit as I have tasks I would like to see accomplished as quickly as possible." Pulling the muggle phones out of his inside pocket, he laid them on the desk in front of Jean, and explained what was needed.
Jean grinned at her boss and paramour. "Well done Mr. Snape. Why don't we replicate the five muggle phones, and have our best and brightest work on the update until they get it right."
Severus chuckled. "That might call for an overnight shift as I'd like more than our original ready for Kingsley's visit tomorrow. Which brings me to the next matter. Our conference room will need a bit of sprucing up before tomorrow's meeting. We will also need a luncheon set up to be delivered by 11:00. Sandwiches, salads, tea, coffee and a few sweets. By 5:00 pm today, will have floos from the house to here and the Ministry, and from here to the Ministry. It will be up to you to set permissions for certain of the staff. Not everyone needs access. Your call. Last item. WCS and DMTS are now properly registered. I don't think I've left anything out, but I reserve the right to have another conversation."
Jean never wanted to kiss her wizard more than she did at that moment. "You really have been busy Severus. I'll get right on your requests. First I want to inform you I've hired the second Byrne brother Mick. He's good Severus. I've been watching him off and on since I put him with the wiring group. He doesn't have the formal education, but he definitely has experience and knowledge. If you don't have any reservations, I'd like to assign him to work on one of the muggle phones. Everything else is going well. We have three fully working phones which have been given to the team to set up numbers. Along with the phones we brought to Kingsley's meeting, we now have six. I've also had a thought about the Geminio Charm. We have six of our original phones. Why don't we charm one or two to see how it works out. When we get the muggle phones adapted over, we can use the charm on them as well."
Severus smiled so widely, Jean thought he might crack his jaw. "I am indeed slipping. As the Messiah, shouldn't I have already thought of this? You are my light Jean. You cannot imagine how much I appreciate you."
"Thank you Messiah. I'll go get everything sorted. I hope the Hermione team has conjured enough numbers and customers to get us started. I believe we should Geminio enough phones to give one to each of the staff. Not only would be a great marketing tool as they show their phones around, but it would be great to show the usage off to Kingsley's group tomorrow."
Severus closed the office door with his wand. "Your words and brilliance have left me with a long, hard stick between my legs. I want nothing more than to throw you on this desk and have my way with you. You are amazing."
Jean blushed, but returned the sentiment in a low voice. "I suggest we change the subject Severus, because this one is making me moist. I'll got get everything started. Good luck to us."
Severus watched as Jean hurried across the building admiring the body that could get him so excited. Who knew a dead man could get so lucky.
/*/
Draco's day had gone much better than anticipated. Brian might be assigned to a desk, but he was as sharp as ever, and had caught Draco and Donald up on all the minutia that went along with their cases.
At 5:45, Blaise went to check on Brian. "How was your first day back? I imagine it wasn't too bad because I didn't hear any wailing from the other two on your team."
Brian smiled. "My day went well Blaise which I put down to Draco and Donald spending the day in the conference rooms tying up two cases. For which I am thankful. I'd also like to apologize for the muck up. Who knew criminals attacked lowly evidence collectors?"
Blaise wanted to chuckle over Brian's words, but he didn't. The team had broken one of his clearly stated rules. "Yes, about that. I'm glad you weren't hurt too badly, but I will also say. The first time is the last time. If any of you skirt the rules again, you will be let go without a word of explanation. You've had your first fuck up. Let it be your last. Well, everything seems fine here. Don't overwork yourself. Plenty of time for that. In fact, it's coming 6:00 pm. Get your desk straightened out then let Draco know you're leaving. I'll see you in the morning. Have a good night."
"Thank you Blaise."
Brian did as told. He went to the conference room to inform Draco he was leaving for the night.
Before Draco could speak, Donald interjected himself into the conversation. "Leaving? Didn't you just get here. What some fellows will do to get a bit a time away from work."
Brian huffed at Donald. "Shut up Donald. My arse is throbbing so I don't need any of your bull shite right now. If you have more to say about my leaving, take it up with Blaise. He was the one who suggested I get on my way."
Draco was smiling down at the items in front of him. Brian had just given Donald a well deserved telling off. "Alright mate. Donald and I are just about through in here for today. We're just tidying up a few loose ends. By the way, if that arse is still throbbing in the morning, I suggest you cast a some kind of pillow spell before you sit down."
Brian held his tongue, but Donald didn't. "Well go ahead. Give Draco a telling off. I'm waiting Mr. Ross."
"I'm not even going to dignify that with an answer. By the way, just so you'll feel better about yourselves. Blaise read me the riot act, so from now on, don't get me involved in any of your bloody schemes. Goodnight. I'll see you both in the morning."
Draco chuckled at the look on Donald's face. "I guess he told us."
"Yes he did," replied Donald. "The little snot."
"If you've finished, let's call it a night. I'll lock up. You go on ahead. I want to speak to Blaise anyway. I'll see you in the morning."
"Alright boss. I'll see you in the morning. Try not to get into any bloody schemes tonight. Brian won't like it."
Unfortunately for Donald, Blaise was at the door and heard everything. "Well Mr. Macomber. Team3's little scheme may be humorous to you, but I'm with Brian on this. Any more bull shite and you're out on your arse."
Donald was understandably flustered at being overheard. "Understood sir. Goodnight Draco. Goodnight Blaise."
/*/
Draco stood. "I think you might have scared some sense into Donald. I've never seen him move so fast. May I help you with something?"
Following Draco into his office, Blaise took a seat. "I really don't have anything pressing. "Just looking for a chat."
"Oh Merlin. Sounds serious," replied Draco, gazing intently at his mate. "Tell me. If I can help, I will. Have you and Ginny had words?"
Blaise looked surprised. "No. Ginny and I haven't had words. In fact, I'd like to hear your thoughts on me getting her an engagement ring."
"Wow Blaise! An engagement ring. That's huge."
"Calm down mate. I was only asking for an opinion. Doesn't mean I'm going to run out tomorrow to purchase one."
Draco became a little miffed. Here Blaise was sitting in front of him asking an opinion but huffed up over the response. "Perhaps I'm the wrong person to ask as I know nothing about engagement rings."
Blaise knew he had come across a little sharp and tried to backtrack. "It might not sound like it, but I value your opinion. I want to ask Ginny to marry me, but then we fight. We make up then we fight. And still, I can't pass a jewelers shop without thinking about rings."
Draco leaned back in his chair. "I believe you already have the answer but just don't want to admit it. Buy a ring, but hold onto it until her birthday or the holidays. If you feel the same way then, get engaged."
"Is that what you're going to do for Hermione?"
Blaise was nosing. "The subject hasn't come up. Besides, with all that's going on with Hermione right now, she'd probably hex me if I presented her with a ring. It is my ultimate goal to marry the obnoxious Miss Granger, but not any time soon. Now that you've pulled my most intimate secret from me, may I finish clearing up so I can go home?"
Blaise laughed as he extended his hand. "No worries. Far be it for me to keep you away from the obnoxious Miss Granger."
"Watch it Blaise. I'll say what I want about Hermione, but you need to temper your tongue. I'll see you inn the morning."
"I meant no offense. Just a bit of friendly humor. I'll see you in the morning."
Draco sat back in his chair. Blaise was thinking about getting bonded. Theo would never believe it. After locking up, Draco hurried to the lifts. He had takeaway to buy for the witch he was going to marry….. somewhere down the line.
/*/
After their breakfast, Theo had spoken to Cely in private. She had basically regurgitated Conor's words about Gloria while wringing her hands in fear she was insulting her master. The gist of it. Miss Gloria pretended to like her and the little mister, but her eyes showed she didn't. Theo thanked Cely after assuring her she wasn't in any trouble for speaking up.
"This is our family Cely. You have the right to protect us at all times, especially Declan. No one will ever be allowed to hurt him. If you don't feel comfortable about doing certain things because you think it will upset me, come to me. I'll sort it out straightaway. Thank you. You may go."
Internally, Theo was heated. Had he brought some duplicitous witch into the house? It would seem he had. The more he thought about it, the more confused he became. Gloria had put on such a lovely front. Theo had now heard from two different sources that Gloria didn't seem to care for Declan. Even though the realization was setting in, Theo still wanted to speak with Declan.
/*/
Declan looked up and was happy to see his father watching him from the bedroom door. "Hello father. Are we ready for our trip to Diagon Alley? I'm looking forward to getting a wizard hair cut."
"We'll be leaving in a bit. I'd like us to have a quick chat about Gloria, and I want you to answer honestly. There will never be a time I'll get angry or upset over something you want to share with me. We are family Declan. No one is more important than you. Do you understand?"
"I do understand father, but children shouldn't speak badly about, about….. Please promise you won't get upset with me. I don't like it when you're upset." Declan answered before breaking into soft sobs. "Your friend doesn't like me. Her eyes don't smile and she moves away when I go near her."
Theo jumped up and hugged Declan. He had let a stiff dick almost come between him and his son. Conor's words suddenly flashed through Theo's mind. Declan is tiptoeing around so as not to upset you. Not wanting to scare his son, Theo spoke softly even though he was burning up inside. "Stop crying Declan. You haven't done or said anything to cry over. You will never be made to feel uncomfortable in your own home. I'll get this sorted. Go wash your face so we can be on our way. Perhaps we'll stop in the ice cream shop to get a cone and leave our regards with Mr. Casper."
With bent shoulders, Declan walked slowly to the bathroom.
Theo was so livid inside. So, she doesn't care for my son. Well kiss my arse in the middle of the Leaky. Theo knew he would be hard pressed to contain himself until he could speak with Gloria face to face. His Padma was gone. No one came before Declan. No one.
Declan came back to stand beside Theo's chair. Searching his father's face as if checking for signs of anger, Declan touched Theo's arm. "I'm ready father."
"Well then, let's be off." Theo replied, in what he hoped was a jovial voice.