Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 65

Blaise stared at Draco. "Trust but verify mate. Trust but verify."

Draco knew Blaise was on the mark. No matter what. He should trust but verify. "Alright then. Give them here. I'll look them over right now."

Blaise handed the cases to Draco along with a cheeky reply. "Don't let Donald know you are second guessing him, or he won't stop grousing for a week."

"Funny Blaise. I plan to let Donald know first thing that I'll be reviewing the cases. If he has an issue with that, he can…. grouse all week. The cases will be back on your desk within the hour."

Draco's reply caused Blaise to chuckle. "I need to speak with Kingsley if he is available. You may leave the folders on my desk if I'm not here."

"Will do," replied Draco before heading to his office.

/*/

Theo's day had gone well. He'd stopped by Esther's to make a quick check on Declan only to find they were out and about. Theo couldn't stop himself from thanking Merlin that things had turned out as they had. The once reviled aunt had turned out to be a decent witch and a life saver as well. Theo had left a short note to let Esther and Declan know he had stopped by and would see them later. Then it had been on to his appointment which had gone well. Even though he and the client parted without a confirmed sale, Theo was sure he would be hearing from the wizard again. It usually took some clients a day or two to realize they wanted the property.

When he arrived home, Theo showered, ate two cheesy biscuits then checked the mail Cely had left on his desk. There were several real estate magazines, an owl from Jean asking him to stop back by WCS that afternoon and another owl from Gloria asking why he hadn't spoken to her after the meeting. Exchanging the towel around his waist for jeans and a long sleeved jumper, Theo apparated directly to WCS to see what Jean needed and possibly speak to Gloria as well.

/

Returning To His Roots: Chapter 66

Upon his arrival, Theo immediately sought out Jean who invited him to step into the office where she explained her purpose.

"I'll preface this conversation by saying I know my request could have been down by Owl, however, I like to look into the faces of people when I beg a favor." She remarked while gesturing Theo to a chair.

Theo smiled at Jean as he took the seat directly across from her, replying with a bit of humor. "Begging doesn't become one of two people who are taking the magical world into the future. How can I help?"

Jean got straight to the point. "Severus and I are hoping you won't be adverse to become part of our marketing campaign."

Many scenarios ran through Theo's head as he listened to Jean. His first duty was to his own company. He had been willing to attend meetings and lend support, but….. What had Jean just said? Sitting up straighter, Theo tuned back in to Jean.

"So. What do you think having a mobile and presenting it to your clients? Severus and I realize you serve mostly mid to upper scale clients which is a segment of the market we really need. Not that one segment of our population should be considered better than another. However, if that segment of the magical world comes on board, most others will come aboard as well."

Theo wasn't opposed to the idea, but had set Jean straight about the different levels of customers he served. "Thank you for inviting me to be part of your marketing campaign. However, just so you know. I have a good balance among my clients with whom I'd be glad to regale with the amazing properties of your device."

Jean immediately reiterated and apologized. "Forgive me Theo if it sounded as though I was putting one group of customers over another. That was not my intent. All consumers are welcome," remarked Jean with a smile. "I'll allocate two test mobiles to our little venture. That way you can tell your friends and clients as well as show them."

Theo didn't think he'd be scurrying about foisting his spiel on everyone in his path, but would do his part. Jay and Leanne suddenly popped into his head. They would be his first subjects. Jay was pliable. He'd be glad to help out a mate. "I accept the challenge Jean. When should I expect the mobiles?"

As usual, Jean was on top of the subject. "If you have a few minutes Theo, I'll get them for you now."

"No time like the present." Theo replied, shifting himself in the chair. "Shall I wait here?"

"Please feel free to visit the large conference room to have some refreshments. Otherwise, feel free to remain where you are. It may take me a few minutes to get the mobiles."

"A coffee would be welcome. I'll see you back here in the office."

/*/

Theo followed Jean out of the office and headed to the conference room. He hadn't finished adding cream and sugar to his coffee before Gloria appeared at the door. "Hello Theo. I'm surprised to see you back in the building."

Theo intended to remain composed until he could sort out just what was going on between Gloria and Declan. "Hello Gloria. I'm here because Jean wanted a conversation. Is your day about over?"

Gloria perked up a bit. It sounded as though Theo wanted to see her after work. "Yes. The work day is almost over. Do you have plans for tonight?"

"Nothing special outside of spending quality time with Declan. How about yourself, any plans?"

"Just home to dinner and a book. Would you like me to come spend time with you tonight?"

Theo was trying his best to remain composed. She wanted to spend time with him. Didn't he just say he'd be with his son? Why not ask to spend time with him and Declan? Theo gave Gloria an answer she probably didn't want to hear. "I've been running around like a maniac these last several days. Declan needs some of his father's attention."

Gloria was bound and determined. "I wouldn't mind spending time with you and Declan. It will be fun."

As if, Theo thought to himself. Then he spoke his mind. "I'm surprised you'd want to spend time with me and Declan. He's somehow gotten the idea you are uncomfortable around him."

For several seconds, Gloria couldn't find her voice. The little shite was scuttling her plans for his father. "Uncomfortable around Declan? I think he's mistaken. It just takes time for children to adjust to strangers."

Theo knew Gloria was pulling shite out of a hat because Declan had taken to every person he'd met since arriving in England except her. "Declan and I will take a pass for tonight. Perhaps this weekend. I have it in mind to have a small get together which you are welcome to attend. I'll let you know. I'd better be getting back to Jean's office. I don't want to keep her waiting. Have a nice evening."

Gloria watched Theo as he headed to the office sure this thing with Declan was some sort of mix up. She'd been nothing but nice to Theo's son. Heading back to her area, Gloria wondered if a wizard with a son was worth pursuing. Perhaps the handsome and single Philip would be a better choice. Speaking of better choices, Philip was still in the building chatting with the wizards in the wiring department. Perhaps she could feel him out.

/*/

Jean hadn't made it back to the office when Theo got back so he took a seat and run his conversation with Gloria through his head. Theo hadn't been able to give his conversation much thought as Jean was back no more than five minutes later with the two test phones.

"Thank you for waiting Theo. Here are the two mobiles. Please keep them at least a week if not more. Severus and I appreciate your participation."

"It's my pleasure to help out." Theo replied, getting to his feet. "If you like, I'll call in a report every few days just so you know how things are going. In fact, if you give me a few customer application forms, I can go the step further and try to sign up a few people."

Jean was beaming over Theo's thoughtfulness as she summoned one customer application which she replicated. "An excellent idea Theo. Thank you for your critical thinking. We look forward to your reports. Have a good evening."

"You as well Jean. I'll be in touch."

/*/

Draco had the two files reviewed and signed in no time. As expected, Donald had been on point. Draco had expected no less. Because had anything been out of order, he would have blistered Donald's ears. As he passed by the workroom, Donald hailed him. Stepping back, Draco stood in the doorway.

"What's up Donald?"

"Well, I was just sitting here wondering if my work on the two cases had met with your approval?"

Draco stepped in closing the door behind him. "Why the tone Donald? Have a hair across your arse because I did what I'm charged to do? If so, get over it. We are a team which will support each other. However, as Team Leader, I will review any file I choose. If you suddenly have a problem with that, I hear they are looking to add a man to Team2."

Donald who had been ready to bitch, moan and complain about not being trusted hadn't expected Draco's response. "I like the team I'm on just fine Draco. I was just a bit ruffled that you'd need to review my work."

"Really? Ruffled is it? Perhaps you should take a moment to recall who normally reviews all team work."

"The cases were finished, done. That's why I handed them to Blaise for his signature."

Draco took the proverbial step back because Donald was right. Blaise could have signed off on the cases. "I understand what you are saying and am in agreement. However, Blaise is Head of our department. If he chooses to have me review one hundred cases, that's what I'll do because it's my job. That doesn't make me trust your judgment any less. Please keep that in mind for future reference which will probably eliminate the need for any more Macomber tantrums."

Donald offered up a smile. "Thank you for your explanation. I apologize if you misconstrued my tone as I'm quite aware the only wizard on this team allowed tantrums is you."

Draco chuckled. "Careful with your words Donald, or I'll begin to think you meant to speak to me in an aggressive tone. Now, instead of just sitting there wondering, why don't you get back to work. Next time, Mr. trying to impress the Head, leave your finished work on my desk not Blaise's."

"Now that I've gotten my daily telling off, I'll get back to work. Thank you Mr. Malfoy for stopping in."

"Always a pleasure Donald," remarked Draco as he opened the door and stepped into the hall. "Always a pleasure."

/*/

As he passed Brian, Draco inquired if he had any complaints seeing how this seemed to be complaint afternoon.

"Not me boss. My name is Brian not Donald."

Draco grinned at Brian. "So, working alone with Mr. Macomber isn't easy."

"Working with Donald is fine Draco. It's his mouth that sometimes gets in the way. Besides, I have enough going on with this pillow spell. Every twenty minutes I have to recast the spell. I'll be glad when my arse heals."

"Good point." Draco remarked as he walked away laughing. "Here's hoping your arse heals quickly. I'll be in my office if you need me."

The rest of the day proceeded along quietly with each of the three wizards concentrating on the files before him. At the end of the day, a subdued Donald stood by waiting for Brian to tidy up. After wishing Draco a good evening, the two wizards headed to the lifts while Draco remained behind tidying up his own ends and thinking he'd have to keep in mind the way to subdue Donald was to suggest he move to a different team.

Collecting his belongings, Draco muttered, "As if I'd give another team a shot at my favorite assistant." After a quick shout out to Blaise, Draco was on his way home hoping Hermione's day had gone well as he was looking forward to a peaceful night and some Granger loving.

/*/

Hermione spent the last half of the workday extremely happy. Jean had informed her that Severus was chuffed with her ideas which had been implemented as promised. Hermione couldn't help herself. She had to stop the wiring and assembling area to see the result of her ideas. What she saw was amazing. In the short space of time between her initial ideas and now, the witches and wizards charged with the task had outdone themselves. If her count was correct, there were at least twenty five finished product laying on the table. Even though Hermione knew several of the assemblers who had been first to arrive, she had been told Mick Byrne was the wizard to see if one needed something from W&A. So that's who Hermione approached.

"Excuse me Mick."

"Hello Hermione." Mick replied without taking his eyes from his work. "What can we do for you?"

"If it won't be a problem, I'd like to borrow one of the finished mobiles for a moment."

Mick looked up. "I think you should check with Severus or Jean. Not to be an idiot about it, but my job is to reassemble the mobiles not lend out. Please see Severus or Jean."

Hermione was a bit put out over Mick's response, but only for a few seconds because Jean appeared asking if there was a problem.

Hermione had circumvented and was caught. "There's no problem Jean. I simply wanted to examine one of the finished mobiles."

This trifling witch, Jean thought. Who died and left her the Messiah? She could have taken Hermione off to the side, but she didn't. Enough was enough. "I'm not sure why you are asking to handle anything in this area when you have been charged with an entirely different aspect. The finished mobiles will be handled when Severus determines they should be handled. You might feel as though setting up mobile numbers isn't important, but they are. For the time remaining in the work day, I ask you go back to your area to work on what you've been charged to do."

Hermione knew Jean was right, and for once didn't offer a clap back. "Certainly Jean."

Jean shook her head as she watched Hermione walk away. She then turned back to Mick who had kept his head down as though he hadn't heard any of the dialog. "Thank you Mr. Byrne for being the voice of reason. A few of our employees feel as though their name is Severus Snape. For the moment, no one is allowed to take a mobile away from your area."

Mick didn't want to get in the middle of anything knowing who authorized the paychecks. "You're welcome. As I told Hermione, it isn't my job to lend out. If it is acceptable to you and Severus, a few of us intend to stay over to get as many mobiles reassembled as possible."

Jean grinned at her worker crush. "Severus and I got very lucky when you appeared at our doors. Work as long as you like, but don't overwork yourself. Severus and I appreciate your effort."

Mick smiled. "It's good to be appreciated. Thank you."

Jean walked away a little tingly. Young Mr. Byrne seemed to be catching more than her business sense. Hastily glancing around, Jean chastised herself for being an arse.

/*/

The work day was over for many. Part of that many happened to be Conor and Cassie who happened to meet up at the front doors.

"Hi Conor. How was your day? Isn't it exciting to be where we are?"

"Hey Cassie. My day was great, and it is definitely exciting to be part of WTS."

"I'm on my way to my flat. If you don't have plans, why don't you stop by. I'll make you a lovely dinner."

Although Cassie interested him, Conor didn't want to get into anything heavy his first minutes in London. "I'm grateful you are so welcoming to this newly landed London transplant, however, there are things I need to do this evening."

Cassie wasn't about to let it go. She had shagged this wizard the first time he'd come to her flat and wasn't about to give up on a possible suitor. "I understand Conor, so I'll just leave it as an open ended invitation. If you complete your tasks at a reasonable time, I'll expect you to come share some pasta with chicken and broccoli and maybe some…."

Cassie was about to say some drinks, but an embarrassed Conor was thinking of other things. Lowering his voice, Conor started to apologize for having taken advantage of a witch he'd just met. "I would love to share a meal with you Cassie without imposing on you in other ways."

Reaching out to touch Conor on the arm, Cassie whispered that his imposition on her had been the best part of his visit and she was looking forward to more. "I'll expect you by 8:30. You may leave your boxers at home if you wish."

Conor chuckled loudly, but responded in a low voice. "Pasta sounds great. However, it's the other part that has my attention. I'll see you at 8:30, without boxers."

Cassie waved before turning into apparition. No way was she giving up on this wizard, especially since she had gotten to him first. Hard working, handsome wizards were hard to come by and she had scored one.

Conor landed at the house in a very positive mood. He had a new position in a well respected company. He had a roof over his head where he was welcome. He'd met a witch who was interested in his attentions. Best of all, he was close to Declan. His mum was definitely somewhere smiling.

/*/

When Jean got back to the office, Severus had returned. Taking one look at Jean's face, Severus raised his wand to close the door. "The look on your face speaks volumes. It appears there is something I need to know."

Jean plopped herself down in one the chairs before speaking. "Our favorite employee tried to put another foot wrong today."

Severus sighed, wondering just how long this seeming battle of wits would go on. "Are we speaking about Hermione?"

"Yes Severus. We are speaking about Hermione. She approached Mick asking to borrow one of the reassembled mobiles, but he was astute enough to direct her to either me or you."

Severus sighed again. When would Hermione learn? "I understand your point Jean. However, you set Hermione straight and she didn't get the phone. No harm done."

Jean glared at her mentor whom she thought was being obtuse. "While you're observation about no harm being done is correct, I'm wondering why she thought it proper to ask in the first place. If or when we are ready to disperse the mobiles, she'll know along with the rest of our staff."

Severus who didn't have a ready rebuttal turned to another subject. "Enough about Miss Granger. I have news to share regarding my discussion with Kingsley."

Jean was annoyed, but decided a conversation would be better done at Severus' house. She wasn't a wasn't a vindictive witch, but, at that moment, Jean decided it might be time for her to spend a few nights in the cottage as Severus seemed to be dismissing her comments as unimportant. "Alright Severus. What did Kingsley have to say?"

Severus realized Jean wasn't chuffed with him shunting her concerns aside, but they could discuss it later. For now, what the Minister said was much more important. "Kingsley has agreed that getting our message out is important. As such, is amenable to us sending out flyers in his name to potential customers. Our next step will be to have flyers made up and sent which I'd like done immediately."

"No problem Severus. As the day has ended for most employees, I'll see to it myself. Shouldn't take too long with a few well placed spells." With that said, Jean rose from her chair to get started, but Severus stopped her before she could open the door.

"You are not a petulant person Jean. Don't let Hermione throw you off your game. We'll discuss it at home."

Jean gave a Severus a desultory smile. "No problem Severus. Your company, your rules. The mailings will probably take a minute. There's no need to wait for me."

Watching Jean walk out the door, Severus realized he had once again supported Hermione's behavior over Jean's concerns. He'd have to straighten it all out later. It was also obvious he needed to have a discussion with Hermione. Even if Hermione could be considered a friend, he wasn't going to let her put him at odds with Jean. Rising from his desk, Severus decided there was no time like the present. If Hermione was still in the building, he'd deal with it now.

/*/

Hermione was clearing up for the night when Severus approached. "Good evening Severus. How are you? I understand there are a number of requests for mobiles including Lucius Malfoy. How exciting." Hermione spoke the last sentence with a distinct tone in her voice.

Severus ignored the tone knowing Hermione Granger wasn't one of Lucius' favorites which didn't concern him in the least. His godson would do what he wanted to do regardless of his father's mindset. "There have been inquiries, but that is not what I'm here about. When you are finished at your station, please come to my office."

Initially, Hermione was chuffed thinking perhaps Severus had more important work for her. On second thought, Hermione imagined she was being called to task because Jean had complained. "Nosing bint." Hermione muttered in a low voice as she grabbed her purse and headed to Severus' office.

/*/

When Hermione appeared at the office door, Severus asked she close the door and take a seat. Which she did.

"What's this about Severus?"

"I asked for this discussion. Let me explain why you are here."

Hermione let out a soft huff, but remained silent as Severus began to speak. "I was advised you tried to borrow one of the completed mobiles. My question is why."

"Really? That's why I've been called to the Headmaster's office. Because I asked to inspect one of the products I helped improve."

Severus snapped back. "Careful with that tone you are so fond of using when you feel hard don by. You take too much on yourself. You are an employee who will abide by the rules Jean and I have set. Either Jean or myself will inspect the finished product. After that, we'll decide who gets to handle the mobiles. You are a skilled, brilliant witch that I'm glad to have in my company. However, you will stop trying to insinuate yourself into places you haven't been asked. If you can't control your behaviors, perhaps this isn't the company for you."

Hermione was shocked and a bit surprised. "Are you asking me to leave WCS?"

Looking Hermione directly in the face, an annoyed Severus spoke frankly. "You've known me a long time Hermione, so you know I don't beat around the bush. If I was asking you to leave WCS, I would have asked you to leave. I'm suggesting you review your priorities then decide if here is where you want to be. At some point you may be given a higher position and more interesting duties. However, this is not that time. If you are interested in remaining with the company, fall in line with the rest of staff."

Hermione knew Severus wasn't joking or making off the cuff remarks. Even though she didn't feel she had overstepped, this was the reality. If she wanted to remain at WCS, she would fall in line. "My apologies to you and Jean Severus. I was only trying to push things along. I'll refrain from pushing my nose in until asked."

This is what Severus wanted to hear. "Thank you Hermione. I understand your strong work ethic and appreciate it. Speaking of work ethics. I'd like you to choose a partner, because as soon as tomorrow, we will be delivering mobiles to customers. Select someone with a good head on their shoulders because part of the process will be to teach the buyers everything there is to know about our product. I'll have a list in the morning. As of this moment, you have permission to handle the mobiles."

As Severus' words sunk in, every ounce of annoyance dissipated from Hermione. Severus was assigning her to something more than fiddling around with numbers and names. "That's wonderful. I choose Conor Byrne. He is super intelligent and understands every aspect of our mobiles. I believe he has left for the evening, but I'll Owl him when I get home. Thank you for this opportunity Severus. You won't regret it. I'll say goodnight. I want to get home to tell Draco and Owl Conor. Thanks again. I'll see you in the morning."

Severus sighed. He didn't know how well his decision would go over with Jean, but Hermione Granger was an astute witch whose skills should be utilized to the fullest. Raising his wand to close his office door, Severus got back to the list of people requesting a mobile phone.

/*/

Draco landed in a quiet house. Evidently, Hermione hadn't made it home yet. For some reason, he was hungrier than normal. With a few swipes of his wand, Draco had leftover pork roast and vegetables warming up and a kettle set to boil.

While he waited for the food to warm, Draco checked for mail and was chuffed to find letters from Wil and Clarke spouting their usual nonsense. Draco was laughing to himself when Hermione apparated in.

"Hello love." She greeted, leaving a kiss on the top of Draco's head. "What's so funny it has you in the study laughing to yourself? Is Brian's bum still acting up?"

Draco laughed at Hermione's guess hoping she'd never mention to Brian he had shared his secret. "No love. Although not altogether healed, Brian's bum is coming along fine. I've received a letter from both Wil and Clarke. Those boys don't know how to write a proper letter. They've invited me to visit when I have time off. You seem chuffed. How was your day?"

Hermione had been chuffed right up until Draco mentioned visiting Switzerland. They'd have to have a conversation about that. Putting that bit of information to the side, Hermione quickly explained the highlights of her day before excusing herself to change clothes and Owl Conor.

Before Hermione could suss out just what she wanted to say to Conor, Draco appeared at the bedroom door. "Dinner is piping hot. Let's have dinner where you can flesh out the remainder of your day."

"Alright love. Serve us up. I'll be there as soon as I get this Owl off to Conor."

"Conor? Conor Byrne? Why are you Owling him?"

Hermione stopped writing to frown at Draco. "Yes Draco. I'm Owling Conor Byrne. I'll explain it all over dinner. Let me get this finished and I'll be right out."

Hello Conor,

I'm writing because Severus has offered me a superlative opportunity which requires a partner. Because I feel you and I work well together, I'm inviting you to assist me with getting mobiles out to our customers. Severus will have a list in the morning. It will be fun. If you are interested, it will be necessary for us to meet at 7:30 tomorrow morning to make our preparations. Please Owl me back with your answer. If you aren't interested, I'll have to ask someone else. I hope you can see your way to partnering up with me.

Regards,

Hermione Granger

Hermione called for an owl before taking her overly chuffed bum to the kitchen to have dinner and explain her good fortune.

/*/

Hermione shared her day carefully omitting her small back and forths with Jean and Severus.

Draco wasn't impressed. Nowhere in the entire recitation had Hermione mentioned Conor Byrne. "Sounds like you had an exciting day love. What does any of it have to do with Conor Byrne?"

"He and I work well together. I've asked him to partner with me. That's what the Owl was about. If he agrees, he and I will meet at 7:30 tomorrow morning to get ourselves sorted. I'm hoping for a return Owl before long."

Although Draco knew this was about work, he'd rather Hermione worked with a witch. "I thought you and Gloria were a team. Why not partner up with her?"

Hermione gave Draco a roll of the eyes. "For your information, I want to partner with someone who is sharp and knowledgeable."

"Sharp and knowledgeable? She was sharp and knowledgeable enough to be hired at Granger and Associates. What's changed?"

"What's changed?" Huffed Hermione. "Why this sudden interest in Gloria? It's simple. She's not the partner I would choose for the project at hand. If you'll excuse me, I believe Conor has returned my Owl."

Draco sighed as he summoned a glass and a bottle of brandy. It was true he didn't like Hermione partnered up with any wizard, but he'd have to be careful how he addressed it with her, or he might find himself sleeping alone while Hermione was partnering up. Finishing up his brandy, Draco went to find out what Conor Byrne had to say.

/*/

Conor had showered, spoken to both Theo and Declan and was ready to get to his dinner invitation when Declan appeared at his door holding out an Owl.

"Hello uncle. This Owl is addressed to you. Father asked me to bring it to you. It's from Miss Granger. Shall I read it to you?"

Conor grinned as he took the envelope from Declan. "Mind yourself Declan. If the Owl is addressed to me, I'll be the one to read it."

Moving quickly towards the bedroom door, Declan called over his shoulder. "The uncle has become quite full of himself since I taught him to read. Goodnight Conor. I hope your Owl is good news."

Still grinning over Declan's cheek, Conor turned the envelope over in his hand. It was from Hermione. Wondering what it was all about, Conor glanced through the letter before going back over the single paragraph. Hermione wanted him as a partner. Although they got along well, he never expected to be her first choice of anything. Hurrying to find pen and paper, Conor wrote back that it would be his pleasure and he'd see her at 7:30 sharp.

Conor couldn't believe the luck. From banging from one paltry job to the next to where he was now, made it appear as though Merlin himself was watching over him.

And he could live with that.