Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 66

"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.

/

Returning To His Roots: Chapter 67

When Draco entered the study, Hermione gave him a cheeky grin as she held out Conor's return Owl. "It seems Conor doesn't mind being partnered up with me. I guess the sharp and knowledgeable Gloria will have to find something else to do."

Draco wasn't at all pleased with Hermione's sarcasm and ignored the letter she was holding out and responded in kind. "No need for sarcasm Hermione. I respect your work. However, I don't understand why you are suddenly disparaging a witch who, according to you, had the makings of a best friend."

With a line of pink showing across her nose, Hermione drew her hand back giving Draco a steely glare. "Really Draco? Am I not allowed to change my mind, or is that option only allowed to you? I don't feel as though Gloria is the partner for me. The end. If she is so interesting, why don't you partner up with her?"

"She's not my type. I have Brian and Donald." Draco shot back over his shoulder as he left the study heading for the bathroom. Closing the door behind with a snap, Draco muttered about how much more annoying his witch had become since getting her position at WCS. He loved her, but at times he couldn't stand her. Since he was in the bathroom, Draco decided to have a quick shower but was interrupted by Hermione rudely opening the door and pulling back the shower curtain.

"If your temper is about Conor Byrne, we are at odds over nothing Draco. I am not interested in him in the least. Perhaps you'd do well to remember I am your witch not his."

Wiping the soap from his face, Draco turned to face Hermione. "While that's all well and good, I'm confused. It seems you have turned a simple conversation about your sudden dislike for Gloria into something about Conor Byrne. We'll have a complete round table if Boot shows up at the door with no expectations of sex."

That was it for Hermione. Draco was obviously trying to get on her last nerve. "Ah, going there Malfoy, are we? Although it has been lovely conversing with you, I think I'll take my slag arse home to think about the wizards who are after me. Let me know when you are sure I'll be able to live up to being your witch. Goodnight."

Draco could have hurried out of the shower to try and catch Hermione before she left, or followed her home, but he didn't. After rinsing himself off, Draco pulled on a pair of pajama bottoms and headed for the study to answer the Owls from Wil and Clarke. If it could be managed, perhaps a bit of time away wasn't unwarranted.

Draco's response to both Wil and Clarke was: Don't be surprised to look up and find me at your door.

/*/

Once home, Hermione made tea then sat back to reflect on her and Draco's conversation. He'd been bang out of line, especially his comment about Terry. He was always so sensitive whenever she mentioned another wizard. True, she may have been overly exuberant about partnering up with Conor, but this was her opportunity to shine. What part of that didn't Draco understand? He should be happy for her instead of throwing accusations about wizards who were irrelevant to their relationship.

Hermione took a sip of tea then let out a sigh. Sip of tea and a sigh. Finally, when the tea was finished and Draco hadn't turned up at her door to get things sorted, she put on her pajamas and climbed into bed only to lie wide awake for an hour mulling things over. Hermione's last thoughts before dropping off to sleep were how she and Conor would become the stars of the shop and of Draco's storm cloud eyes when they were arguing. In Hermione's mind, one thought negated the other. Draco Malfoy would just have to get over himself.

/*/

Even though Jean had suggested he go on ahead home, Severus waited for her in his office figuring he could explain himself just as well there as he could at the house. While he waited, Severus marveled at how far he'd come in the past months. From drawing board to production in less than two months. While he marveled over his own prowess, Severus knew if it wasn't for the welcome he'd received Kingsley, his hard work would probably still be notes, files and ideas on that drawing board. It was far from proper, but Severus also thanked the dead, ne'er-do-well Goyle for injuring Theo and becoming the impetus for his return to London.

When Severus looked up, Jean was standing at the door staring at him. "You seem lost in thought. I thought you were going to the house."

"I decided to wait for you. We arrive together, we should leave together."

"Oh, and here was me thinking I'd have a lovely dinner waiting when I got home."

Severus grinned at Jean. Although she was speaking in a reasonable tone and uttering reasonable words, he recognized she was two minutes away from hexing his arse. "We will have dinner together as always. In fact, I thought we might enjoy a bit of lovely, British takeaway."

Jean sighed as she slid into a chair. Her lover, superior, and confidante was trying to pull the proverbial wool over her eyes and she wasn't having it. "Sounds lovely Severus, but before we get into a discussion about takeaway, I'd like to discuss this predilection you have for dismissing or overriding my opinions. I understand from Miss Granger herself that you have chosen her to deliver mobiles. I am an even tempered witch, but it took every bit of reserve I have to keep from wiping the smirk off her face with any number of well placed spells."

Severus pulled himself up straighter in the chair. Even though Jean remained composed, he could tell she was on fire.

Jean wasn't finished. "I'm not sure why this one witch sets my teeth on edge, but she does and has from twenty minutes after I met her. And you condoning her bad behavior doesn't set well with me either. Knowing me as you do, I imagine you realize I wouldn't be this defensive without some solution in mind. My suggestion is that you share your realization for DMTS then let me handle the inception. I believe I'll be of more use to you at The Ministry rather than here where I'm just some talking head."

Without meaning to, Severus expelled a sharp breath. "Slow down Jean. You are not some scatter brained talking head. I respect your opinions." Severus then clamped his mouth shut because he really wasn't acting as though he valued Jean's opinions. At least not when it came to Hermione. "You are my Second Jean. You are the most valuable person in my life. It simply comes down to you and I having differing opinions of Hermione Granger. We've had differences of opinions before. Why is this different? I'd like you to remain here. Then when we have everything running smoothly here, we'll begin to work on setting up DMTS.

Jean smiled at Severus. "Why wait? I've had some thoughts. It's my opinion we'll get farther along if I begin laying the groundwork for our ministry department. I'll choose a few support people to go with me and we'll get on with it. By the time everything is settled here, your department might be up and running."

For several seconds, Severus remained silent. When he finally found his voice, it was to question whether all this was…..

Jean cut across Severus before he could finish his second sentence. "Yes, Mr. Snape. This is exactly how it looks and sounds. I'd like for you to handle the business here and I'll handle the business at The Ministry. I've even had thoughts on who I'd like to assist me. For the time being, I believe Cassie, Gloria, Conor and Philip will be the best fit. Brains and muscles. We'll have the department sorted in no time."

When Jean paused her recitation, Severus began speaking. He was a bit troubled that it had come to this, but was also a bit resentful Jean would pull such a stunt. She was upset over a simple matter, but taking it to the extreme. As he carefully chose his words, other thoughts crossed his mind. Why was he agitated? Jean working from The Ministry would solve two problems. DMTS would be functioning sooner than expected, and she and Hermione would be in separate corners, so to speak. If he really thought about it, Jean's idea wasn't bad at all. However, whether the idea had merit or not, it wasn't the way it should have been presented. "While this seems well thought out Jean, it appears you are trying to punish either me or Hermione, and that's just not you. I suggest we continue this discussion over dinner. Perhaps we can come to a meeting of the minds."

"That's fine Severus." Jean replied. "Just as long as that meeting of the minds ends up with me as the winner. Now, as my stomach is fiercely rumbling, I'd like you to Owl in our dinner order. I'm much more pliable when I've been fed."

Opening his middle desk drawer to sort through the medley of menus they kept, Severus remained wary even though Jean appeared to be back to herself. She had her mind firmly set on putting some distance between herself and Hermione, and from the looks of it, he'd be hard put to talk her out of it.

/*/

Theo sent a wizard-to-wizard Owl to Jay asking to have a quick meet up. Jay, who had been lazing about waiting for Leanne to get home quickly replied with an invitation for Theo to come through.

When Theo arrived, Jay had gone from lazing about to preparing dinner. "So, you've taking up cooking then mate?" Asked Theo with his face covered in a wide smile.

Returning Theo's grin, Jay quipped right back. "A good witch does wonders for a wizard's soul."

"Ah, yes. That's a fact. If you can put the mashed under a warming spell, I'd like to discuss a very important and impressive matter."

Jay wiped his hands before taking a seat. "Well then Mr. Nott, explain away. I've always been interested in the important and impressive as long as it doesn't have a bad ending."

Theo smiled at his mate as he pulled the two mobiles from his case. "We are looking at the best wizarding invention since…. Well since Hermione invented a bag with an extendable charm."

"Extendable charm?" Inquired Jay.

"Never mind Jay. Have a look at these. They are mobile phones for the wizarding world courtesy of Severus Snape and Jean Bradford. I'd like you and Leanne to be two of the first to have them."

Taking one of the mobiles in his hand, and turning it from back to front, Jay gestured for Theo to show him the what's what. "I know you wouldn't steer me wrong Theo, so show me. Hang on a second. That will be Leanne getting in from work. You can show us both."

Theo stretched a bit waiting for Jay and Leanne to come back through. When Leanne did come through, Theo stood to kiss her on the cheek. "Good to see you Leanne. It's been a while."

"Good to see you too Theo. Jay says you have something to show me. Let me just freshen up a bit. Be right back."

While they waited for Leanne to get back, Theo informed Jay he was expected at the small get together he was throwing Saturday evening.

"Leanne and I will be there. I won't have to duel Malfoy, will I?"

Theo laughed out loud then lowered his voice. "I'd like to say no, but if you try to put moves on Hermione, all bets are off."

Jay grimaced. "I'll tell you once again. I was not trying to put moves on anyone. I was being friendly."

Theo was still chuckling when Leanne returned. "That's a very naughty sounding chuckle Mr. Nott. What did I miss?"

Jay answered before Theo could say anything. "My mutt of a mate is still talking about the night I met Hermione Granger. He's a prat."

Leanne let out a giggle. "Old news Theo. Try again."

Theo had the courtesy to blush. He'd been outdone by his mate. Leanne knew everything. "Just my little joke Leanne. Now to business. I have shown Jay the newest product on the wizarding market. I will now dazzle you and get your opinion." From there, Theo went over all the details. When Theo was finished, both Leanne and Jay were convinced. They both wanted a mobile.

Theo was chuffed. He'd gone over the workings of the mobile in detail and made two sales in the space of two hours. At this rate, he just might sell all the phones before morning. After getting Leanne and Jay to fill out an application form, Theo collected their drafts, assured them they would have their mobile within twenty four hours, thanked them for their orders then stood up to leave. "Thank you both. I think you will be very pleased with the product. I expect to see you both on Saturday. Have a good evening."

"He expects to see us on Saturday?" Questioned Leanne. "Where and why?"

Grabbing Leanne around the waist, Jay squeezed her tight. "Nothing mysterious love. Theo is having a get together and we are invited."

"Oh, okay. That's settled. Let's go eat. I'm starving."

"Alright love. We can do that as soon as I finish up the mashed. I just adore a witch who doesn't have a problem waiting for the mashed."

Leanne giggled as she grabbed her wizard around the waist. "More mashing and less talking. As I said, I'm starving."

Jay kissed her forehead as they headed for the kitchen.

/*/

The house was quiet when Theo got home. No telly going. The door to Declan's room shut as were the doors to Conor and Mick's rooms. Theo realized Declan must be with Esther. One thought led to another. He had an excellent idea. One quick Owl to Esther let her know he was on his way there. Theo had his sights set upon signing up two more subscribers, Esther and Ellis. Still patting himself on the back, Theo had a quick wash up before Apparating to Esther's house.

Declan met his father at the door. "Father, I'm so happy to see you. Aunt Esther and Mr. Casper are expecting you. Will we be having dinner here or at home?"

Theo grinned at his overly verbose son. "Slow down Declan. We will have dinner at home after I've spoken to your aunt."

"Yes father. Dinner at home sounds fine."

While he and Declan were conversing, Esther entered the room with Ellis following closely behind. "Hello Theo. I hope you aren't upset that Declan hasn't eaten. I remember you saying you would be spending time with him this evening. However, I did set orders with Cely to have dinner ready and waiting for you two."

Theo answered Esther warmly. "Thank you for that Esther. Declan and I will be on our way as soon as I have shown you and Ellis these mobile phones."

"Mobile phones? I do remember you mentioning Severus Snape's project."

"Well," replied Theo. "It is now more than a project. Severus and his Second Jean Bradford have done it. I believe it would benefit you and Ellis to have one. Communication would be so much easier than sending an Owl."

Declan who was listening to every word coming out of Theo's mouth was so excited he almost couldn't contain himself. Almost. He knew his father didn't look kindly on antics, so he kept his enthusiasm under control, for now. He would wrangle information about mobiles out of the uncles.

Even before Theo's demonstration, Esther and Ellis were nodding their heads certain they would purchase a mobile. They might be in their forties, but they were young enough to recognize a good thing when they heard it, and after Theo's demonstration, they were sold. Theo took their applications and drafts before rounding up Declan to head home.

/*/

After Theo and Declan left, Esther set out the dinner during which she and Ellis exclaimed over the wonderful device. "I'll be calling you five times a day," joked Ellis.

Esther smiled warmly at her wizard as she answered with a teasing reply. "And I will answer five times a day."

"Let's finish our dinner," responded Ellis hoarsely. "I want to feel your skin against mine."

With a faint blush covering her cheeks, Esther murmured lowly that she would welcome his skin against hers.

/*/

Theo and Declan hadn't been in the house for than five minutes before there was a knock at the front door. As he headed to the door, Theo gave Declan an order. "Go wash up Declan so we can have dinner."

Theo was and wasn't surprised to see Gloria at his door. "Hello Gloria. What brings you here?"

Gloria heard the tension in Theo's voice but chose to ignore it. "I thought we agreed to spend some time together tonight."

Theo kept her standing at the door. "I think you misunderstood. Perhaps I wasn't clear. I haven't been able to spend much time with Declan over the past few days and, as I said, I plan to spend time with him tonight. Sorry for the confusion. Perhaps we can have a nice chat Saturday evening at my get together. You are welcome to come."

For several seconds, there was an awkward silence between them. Then, as if to save face, Gloria agreed that she must have misunderstood. "Sorry for the intrusion Theo. I must have gotten my signals crossed. Say hello to Declan for me. I'll see you Saturday."

Theo felt a bit foolish as he shut the door. He hadn't ever shut the door on a witch until that moment. However, he didn't have time to dwell on his behavior because Declan appeared waving a very clean pair of hands.

"I'm ready for dinner father. We are having one of my favorites, creamed cod."

Theo ruffled his son's hair as they made their way to the kitchen. "Creamed cod?" Questioned Theo. "I haven't had that in a while. I look forward to a bit of decadence."

Declan was puzzled but didn't question Theo. His father knew best. If he thought creamed cod was decadent, it was decadent. Declan only knew it tasted very good on top of mashed.

/*/

Conor was a hair late to Cassie's house, but she still greeted him with enthusiasm. "Welcome Mr. Byrne. Rest you jacket and fix yourself a drink. Our dinner is almost ready."

Conor did as asked. He rested his jacket and fixed himself a brandy before asking Cassie if he should fix her a drink as well.

"Thank you Conor. I'm good. I had a few butterbeer before you arrived. Besides, I want to be completely sober when you impose on me."

Conor crossed one leg over the other. The sex between them had been steamy and very satisfying, and Cassie's words were helping him relive their night together. "I'm glad you look forward to my next imposition because your words are taking my thoughts in a specific direction.

Cassie immediately seized on Conor's words and came from the kitchen to stand directly in front of him. "It seems we are thinking along the same lines. I say we leave dinner until a bit later so we can impose ourselves on each other."

Conor was all for it. Taking Cassie in his arms, he whispered. "In the scheme of things, a late dinner sounds fantastic."

Wrapping her arms around Conor's neck and planting a wicked kiss on his lips, Cassie concurred.

/*/

Draco was having a solitary drink in the living room when he heard the swoosh of an arriving owl. Getting up off the couch, Draco went to collect the message which was a return response from the ever irreverent Wil Baker.

Hello once again my mate:

If you seriously mean what you wrote, and you can tear yourself away from the lovely Hermione, I think you, me and Clarke should come to some agreement. Clarke and I can plan a holiday week the end of June, or the first of July, your choice. Let us know. As quiet as it's kept, I wouldn't mind coming back to London as long as all the killers and miscreants have been dealt with. However, knowing you, if you want to get out of London for a bit, that's what will be done. Anyway, give us a shout when you've firmed up your plans. I look forward to seeing you drunk off your ass at the local bar. Good times.

Regards

Wil

Draco chuckled over Wil's response mentally going over the state of OTS. Stuart Johns the new hire would be coming aboard within the next two weeks which would leave plenty of time to get him trained up if he decided to take a holiday in Switzerland. Then two thoughts crossed Draco's mind simultaneously. Stuart Johns would most likely be on Team2 or 4 which would have nothing to do with him or Team3. Additionally, there was Hermione. He'd probably have to stun and bind her in order to take a holiday away from England without her. Shrugging, Draco went petulant. Hermione probably wouldn't worry about him taking a solo holiday as long as she was partnered up with Conor Byrne.

Draco returned to the living room to finish his drink. As he sat there recalling the argument with Hermione, he had to admit he was being petty, and one petty arse in a relationship was enough.

Sending the glass to sink, Draco let out a loud huff. Here he was at 11:30 at night grousing over words that had been said when his tired arse should be in bed getting some sleep. Beside, he'd definitely have time enough on Wednesday to rehash the shite. Hermione would make sure of it.

Draco tossed and turned for a bit before he began to drift off. His last thought before succumbing to sleep was to wonder if Hermione would like to see Switzerland.