Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 76
While Jay was winking and his father was smiling, Declan was moving from one foot to the other wishing Miss Anna Grace would hurry and turn up. He didn't like the way Gabriella, just call me Gabri, had looked at his father. He didn't want to seem rude, but Gabri seemed like the same sort of witch as Gloria. Thinking of Gloria gave Declan a quick bout of stomach quivers which in turn caused him to choke.
Reaching over to pat Declan on the back, Theo asked if he was alright.
"I'm fine father. I think someone's perfume was just a bit too sweet smelling for my stomach."
Theo laughed as he softly replied. "I know exactly what you mean. You may have to pat me on the back if many more witches come through bathed in scent."
Declan smiled before turning to greet the next group of guests which included Mr. Blaise and his date Miss Ginny along with two wizards who introduced themselves as Brian Ross and Donald Macomber. Donald and Brian thanked Theo for the invitation mentioning they worked with Draco and Blaise. Both wizards took a turn shaking his hand.
Declan stood with his father until 9:30 when Theo called for Reg to come get his charge. After a few whispered instructions from Theo, Reg took Declan to his room explaining he was going to the kitchen to get plates and he should get washed up and into his pajamas.
Declan did as he was told and had himself all sorted by the time Reg returned with large plates of food for them both.
"Thank you Reg. It all looks delicious. I am feeling a bit hungry."
Reg used his wand to hover the plates in the air while he enlarged the small reading table. As the plates floated softly down on the table, Reg pulled fruits, juices and waters from his inside pockets. "This is a special circumstance. Starting tomorrow, we will abide by Mother Padma's rule. We will take our meals in the kitchen or dining room. Of course I'll confirm it all with your father before we take a step."
Declan glanced over at Reg as he lifted his fork to his mouth. He really did like his new Manny.
/
Returning To His Roots: Chapter 77
While Reg and Declan were eating and conversing, a steady stream of guests had arrived. Hermione and Draco arrived a few steps before Cassie and Conor. Gloria Isles who had arrived shortly after Declan left his spot had tried to engage Theo in conversation but was shunted along when a group of WCS employees turned up. Theo had a quick thought. He was worried about entertaining two witches. Now it was looking as though he'd have three witches on his tail.
"Good evening Theo. Why the frown? Your company can't have become annoying so early in the evening."
Theo smiled as he allowed Parvati to pull him into a quick hug. "Hello Mick, Parvati. My guests are fine or will be asked to leave. No worry on that front." Theo then asked Parvati to remain at the door to greet his guests as he wanted to introduce Mick to Reg Briggs the new Manny.
Parvati put on a pout. "Declan has a Manny? I'd like to meet him too."
Theo didn't want Parvati starting with her theatrics so he gave her a firm reply. "I've asked you to greet a few guests. It's not hard. You'll have your chance to meet Reg. Right now, I'd like him to meet the wizards who live in the house. We'll be right back."
"I'm sorry Theo. You're right. I can meet him some other time. Hurry back Mick. I'm starving."
Shaking his head, Theo remarked that Parvati was nothing like her sister. Mick smiled because he had already come to realize Parvati could be a handful. He and Theo reached Declan's bedroom and stepped in.
"Hello men. Reg, I've come to introduce you to Declan's other uncle. Reg Briggs, this is Mick Byrne. Mick, Reg. Tomorrow evening, we will all sit down to go over details. While I'm thinking about it, I want to introduce Reg to Cely. I'm sure she realizes what's going on, but I still want her to have a proper introduction. I won't hold you Mick. Would you mind greeting guests with Parvati until I get there?"
"No problem Theo. Glad to help. Nice to meet you Reg. Goodnight. Goodnight Declan."
A grinning Declan wished Mick a goodnight.
Theo called out to Cely who appeared with a pop. "Yes Mr. Theo."
"Cely, this is Mr. Reginald Briggs. He has been hired as Declan's man. You will treat him as part of our family. Reg, this is Cely our household assistant. You may call on her for you and Declan's needs. As I said, Cely is an assistant not a servant. Please treat her accordingly. We will sort out details of what she will and will not do at our meeting tomorrow."
Cely gave Reg a short bow and disappeared. Theo had given her a big compliment and her little elf heart was swelling with pride. She wasn't a servant. She was a household assistant. The only thing that could make her happier was to have Mother Padma back. Since that wasn't possible, she would concentrate on the family she had.
/*/
Theo went back to relieve Mick and Parvati just in time to greet Harry Potter, a few of his Aurors and Miss Anna Grace bringing up the rear. Theo quickly greeted Harry and his boys, but held out both hands to Anna. "Welcome Miss Grace. I'm chuffed you decided to accept my invitation."
Anna eyes crinkled as she smiled at Theo.
Declan was right. Miss Grace is a lovely witch thought Theo as he realized he was still holding onto her hands and let go. It was only after Theo let go he realized there had been a burst of warmth when he connected with her hands. It was a bit unnerving.
"Although I don't know why I'm here, I thank you for inviting me Theo. The invitation was unexpected but welcome. You have a lovely home. Can I help you with anything?"
When Anna asked if she could help, a blush began at Theo's neck and ran up to his forehead. This lovely witch apparently thought he had invited her as staff. Clearing his throat, Theo quickly explained in full. "Everything has been set up to my specifications. All a guest needs to do is fill his or her plate. You are here as my guest. Do nothing except eat, drink and look beautiful. There are still a few guests coming through so I'll be tied up here for a few more minutes, after which, I'll come find you."
Anna was blushing furiously. This handsome, well off, fit wizard was flirting with her, or appeared to be. Looking around the main rooms, Anna told herself even if Theo Nott wasn't flirting with her, she would enjoy her time at Nott Estate.
After picking up an empty plate, Anna moved toward the food table where she was drawn into a conversation with a friendly wizard who introduced himself as Donald Macomber. They talked as he looked over the offerings.
"So, Anna. I don't think I've ever seen you before. Do you work in The Ministry? Have you been to any of Theo's other meet and greets? Have mercy Merlin. This Porchetta smells heavenly. Hand me your plate. I'll get us started. Do you want potatoes and sprouts as well?"
When Anna didn't reply, Donald turned to find her grinning and realized he had been monopolizing the conversation. Giving Anna a slight bow, he apologized. "Sorry Anna. I'm a natural born extrovert who doesn't let anyone get a word in edgewise."
Anna let out a soft tinkle of a laugh. "No problem Donald. Extroverts are some very fine people. To answer your questions. I don't work in The Ministry and this is my first time at Nott Estate. Theo…."
And there he was, Theo Nott in the flesh "Hello again Mr. Macomber. Finding everything alright Anna? Why don't I fix us a plate before I show you around?"
"I'd like that Theo. Thank you. Nice meeting you Donald."
Theo gave Donald a long look before taking Anna's arm. Donald stood there holding two plates feeling like a dolt. Obviously Anna was Mr. Nott's special guest. Donald was glad he hadn't asked for her information. Deciding to look like less like a prat and more like a hero, Donald walked over to Brian and handed him one of the plates.
/*/
Figuring to get things sorted before there was a need to get someone sorted, Theo guided Anna over to Jay, Leanne and Gabriella to introduce her around. Jay looked surprised but not as surprised as, you can call be Gabri, who evidently thought she was there for Theo. Leanne acknowledged the introduction thinking Jay might want to tone his rhetoric down a bit. It had been him who had talked Theo up as a possible romantic interest for Gabriella.
Theo wasn't a fool. He knew Jay had brought Gabriella in hopes that he and she would hit it off. So much for hoping he thought as he introduced Anna to Draco, Hermione, Blaise and Ginny before seating her at one of the tables.
As they sat there enjoying the food, music began playing. Theo leaned in to Anna. "I hope you will dance with me a bit later."
An ecstatic Anna didn't understand any of it, but if Theo Nott wanted to dance with her, she wouldn't refuse. "I look forward to it Theo. Thank you for asking. This food is delicious."
An exuberant Theo simply nodded.
"So Theo. Although I'm very pleased to be here, I'm wondering how I came to be here."
"Nothing spurious." Theo answered between bites. "You accepted an invitation."
"That part I know." Anna answered with a smile. "Perhaps I should be more clear. You didn't know of me before Wednesday. How did I luck up and fall into your favor?"
Theo hesitated. He could give some inane excuse, but he wasn't a liar. He was a grown wizard who didn't particularly want to sound like a fool, but would tell the truth and let the chips fall where they may. "The truth is, you fell into Declan's favor. It was he who insisted I invite you here, but now you are here I concur with his assessment. Not to frighten you, but I think my son wants you for his mum."
Anna glanced at Theo full in the face to see if he was having her on. It didn't seem so. As far fetched as it might sound, she was a witch who'd seen and heard much stranger things. Her own old Nan used to tell stories of how she used a special, old magic drawing potion to draw her father to her mother when it appeared no wizard was coming to ask for her daughter's hand.
Anna made one last thoughtful comment on the subject. "It's all well and good that young Mr. Nott sees something in me, but it's the father who will have the last say."
Theo nodded. Anna was right. It was up to him whether or not he would pursue her. Holding out his hand, Theo answered with a brave comment. "Come. Let's dance. If you don't step on my feet, we might be destined to become an item."
Taking hold of Theo's outstretched hand, Anna followed him to the dance area where she walked into his arms. "This might only be our second interaction, but I feel as though we've been introduced by an old friend who is pushing us to be together."
Drawing Anna close, Theo replied. "Interestingly enough, I feel the same. Perhaps you will join us tomorrow for Sunday dinner. I believe Declan will be glad to see you again."
"Thank you Theo. It will be my pleasure to have Sunday dinner with you and your family. Let's leave the invitation contingent on whether I step on your feet."
Theo laughed out loud. Declan was spot on. This was a very comely and likable witch.
/*/
If Jay was surprised by the interactions between Theo and Anna Grace, Blaise, Draco and Gloria were astounded.
Blaise and Draco stepped away from Hermione and Ginny to ask each other what he knew about this stranger. Neither man knew who she was.
"Whoever she is, she has Theo's attention." Offered Blaise. "I've never seen Theo this attentive to anyone other than Padma. And I definitely haven't heard him laugh like that in years. This bears some watching."
Draco was as puzzled as Blaise. "We both know Theo is a very private wizard, if he wants us to know his business, he'll tell us. I'm just wondering why the secrecy."
Blaise offered a guess. "I don't know mate. Perhaps he's getting the relationship in order."
"Perhaps, but it's more likely he's biding his time before formally introducing her to Declan. A young wizard may not understand Theo wanting to bring a witch into a houseful of wizards."
Blaise shrugged. "Whatever it is, I'm going to ask him about it. All he can do is explain or tell me to push off. Let's get back to the ladies."
Draco turned to see Hermione staring in his direction. "Prepare to be interrogated." He whispered to Blaise.
And interrogated they were. Ginny asked Blaise one question but receiving a non-answer she just shrugged. Hermione, however had several questions. None of which set well with Draco. He remembered too well what Hermione might be inclined to do with private information. He deflected and Hermione turned away with a grunt. It hadn't turned out well discussing Declan over a dinner table, so even if they knew anything, neither Draco nor Blaise was going to discuss Theo's personal business with their witch.
/*/
Gloria was in a corner sulking. Yes. The grown witch was sulking watching the way Theo had prepared the witch's plate, sat side by side with her then led her to dance floor. Who was the witch? Where did she come from? A few weeks ago Theo was at her flat pushing into her. She cursed under her breath for letting that Declan brat get between her and his father. Then she cursed again knowing it was her fault for letting her aversion for another witch's child show.
She glanced over at Theo and the witch only to see Theo pull her closer. Her witch intuition told her she could curse and growl all she wanted, but Theo Nott appeared to have stepped completely out of her reach.
While Gloria was fighting her internal battle, she looked across the room to see none other than Terry and The Della looking all cozy and happy. Another of her failures. As she sat there ruminating on her failures, someone came up on her right.
"Good evening Gloria. How are you this evening?"
Gloria turned to find Nils one of the team leaders smiling at her. Even though she didn't really feel like smiling, Gloria responded in a pleasant enough manner. "Hello Nils. How are things? Still running the best team at WCS?"
Nils grinned at what he hoped would be a sure one off. "Such a compliment Miss Isles. All of Severus' teams are his best team. You know our feisty leader wouldn't settle for anything less."
"You have me there Nils. Neither Severus nor Jean would settle for second best."
"May I get you some food or a drink? Actually, I'd be very pleased if you'd accompany me to the tables to have a bite with me then a drink and a dance."
Gloria thought about it. Why not? It wouldn't hurt anything to have a bit of dinner and a drink with a colleague. It was better than sitting by herself feeling like a lost soul. "Alright Nils. I would like a bit to eat and perhaps a drink and a dance. Lead the way."
/*/
Hermione had crossed the room to speak to Leanne when she noticed Gloria having a conversation with Nils. Without reason, she glanced over at Draco to see if he'd spotted Nils, but he had his head together with Theo and Blaise. Wizard talk. Anna must have stepped away for a loo break or something because she wasn't in view. With nothing more in mind than to say a quick hello to Gloria and Nils, she headed in that direction.
Picking up a plate, Hermione greeted Gloria then Nils. Gloria's response was less than stellar but Hermione didn't care. Gloria could pound sand. She was a non factor. Nils however, greeted Hermione with a wide grin.
"Good evening Miss Granger. How are you? Gloria and I are getting food. Would you like me to start a plate for you as well?"
"No thanks Nils. I'm quite able to fill my own plate. Everything looks so delicious. I might have a bit of everything."
"Now that's the Hermione I know and love, feisty but equitable."
Hermione felt a blush forming on her cheeks. Was this prat flirting with her right in front of the witch he was helping? What a git. Hermione glanced at Gloria who also had a bit of a blush across her nose. She obviously thought Nils was flirting too. All Hermione needed was for Draco to walk up and it would be a party. Hastily grabbing some sprouts and potatoes, Hermione said a quick goodbye then headed back to Draco which was a good thing because her wizard was staring in Nils' direction.
Not wanting any more misunderstandings, Hermione deflected by offering Draco some of her food. "Have some love. The sprouts are delicious."
Although he had a smile on his face, Hermione knew Draco was irritated by his tone. "I'll get something when the food area clears out a bit."
"Have it your way. You are definitely missing out."
"Am I?" He asked.
Anna had come back from her loo break and she and Theo had wandered away, but Blaise who recognized Draco's tone had hurried Ginny to the dance floor. There was no way he wanted to be in the middle of a Granger Malfoy argument in the middle of Theo's main room.
"You sound annoyed Draco." Asked Hermione. "What's wrong now?"
Draco didn't care for Hermione's last question. "What's wrong now? You sound like you're keeping some kind of score Hermione. To me, you are again making…."
"For fucks sake Draco." She replied, cutting across him. "It's you who had a tone, not me. Why don't I do this? I'll circle the room to speak to our friends. You can stand here and do whatever makes you happy. When you feel better, come see about me. We are out to have a good time Draco. Don't spoil it."
/*/
Hermione's words rolled off Draco's back. Perhaps he did have a tone in his voice, but so what. He was a grown wizard who was allowed to take a tone if he wished. Then he back tracked letting out a sigh. He was being an arse because he had seen Nils. It had all been explained to his satisfaction so why this particular wizard rubbed him the wrong way he didn't know. Taking a deep breath, Draco looked around. Spotting Donald and Brian, he headed in their direction.
When Draco walked up, both Brian and Donald greeted him with big smiles. They had been conversing with a third person who Donald introduced as Gabriella Abalo. As soon as she saw this handsome wizard who appeared to be on his own, Gabriella smiled sweetly informing Draco he could call her Gabri. Draco nodded commenting that it was a pleasure to meet her. The four stood there conversing with Gabriella giving Draco her biggest smiles. After several minutes, Draco excused himself remarking he should do a bit of networking. However, when he went to walk away, Gabriella took his arm asking if she could accompany him.
While all this was happening, Hermione who was talking with Conor and Cassie watched as a witch latched onto Draco. The curious part was Draco didn't seem to be pushing the witch away. Excusing herself, Hermione headed over to Draco to find out just what was going on.
Draco hadn't had a chance to pull away from Gabriella as Hermione approached, but managed to get loose by the time she reached him.
Hermione greeted Draco then stood there making small talk waiting to be introduced. When an introduction wasn't forthcoming, she introduced herself. "Hello. I'm Hermione Granger. How are you?"
Gabriella who didn't know Hermione Granger or the identity of her wizard smiled brightly as she answered. "Hello Hermione. I'm Gabriella Abalo. Are you enjoying yourself?"
"I am enjoying myself Gabriella. The food and music are amazing."
Not wanting to interfere in a witch conversation, Draco excused himself. Hermione noticed how Gabriella's eyes followed Draco as he walked away. Recognizing that this witch seemed to have designs on Draco, Hermione became petulant.
"Do you know Draco Malfoy?"
"I don't. I was just introduced to him, but he is a fine looking wizard. I won't say no if he asks for my information."
"Interesting that you think he might ask for your personal information." Hermione replied.
"How so? Asked Gabriella.
"Nothing scandalous. I'm just surprised Draco didn't mention he has a witch."
"Oh my," replied an embarrassed looking Gabriella. "That puts a different light on things. Don't think badly of me Hermione. I didn't know. Draco and I only spoke for a couple of minutes. Perhaps he would have told me if we'd spoken a bit longer. If you'll excuse me, it appears my friends are ready to leave."
"Hmph," snorted Hermione as she looked around for Draco. "You didn't know because Draco purposely didn't tell you." Spotting him in the hall now talking to Tracey Davis, Hermione muttered how the witches were coming out of the woodwork. A petty thought crossed her mind. She hoped Tracey didn't plan to suck Draco's dick in the middle of the dance floor.
/*/
The party or meet and greet had been a huge success. It was down to Conor, Cassie, Mick, Parvati and Anna when Theo suggested they have one last drink. Conor declined for him and Cassie while Mick did the same for him and Parvati. From the tight hold the wizards had on Cassie and Parvati, it was clear to Theo they'd rather be somewhere else enjoying private time. To be honest, Theo had only suggested the drinks because he wanted more time with Anna who he figured wouldn't want to stay on her own. Theo was surprised when she spoke up.
"If you don't mind it being just me Theo, I'd love to have a last drink with you."
Theo beamed. As silly as it sounded, he didn't want his time with Anna to end. "I don't mind at all Anna. In fact, it's my pleasure. Shall we head to my den? It's a bit manly, but you'll make it cozy just by being there."
Anna was happy, but skeptical at the same time. A wizard she'd only met four days ago had wined and dined her and now seemed reluctant to let her leave. A small ball of trepidation was forming in her chest as she wondered if Theo Nott thought she owed him something and expected her to pull off her knickers and spread herself which, no matter how pleasant and welcoming he'd been wasn't going to happen. Anna gave a little start when she realized Theo was speaking.
"You seem at uneasy Anna."
"I'm fine Theo." She said, accepting the drink he was handing her. "I-I..."
"You-you are a bit apprehensive about being alone with a wizard in his private den."
Anna took a sip of her wine then grinned at Theo. "That's it in one. I don't want to seem ungrateful, but I'm not a witch who jumps into bed with any wizard who invites her to his home."
The often volatile Theo Nott almost bristled. Almost, but not quite. Of course he hadn't invited Anna to his home to take advantage, but how would she know this unless he made his intentions clear, so he apologized. "It wasn't my intention to make it appear as though I expected some favor. That isn't the case. The fact is, I've met a lovely witch whom I'd like to get to know better. You must realize I invited others to drink with us so you wouldn't be uncomfortable. Unfortunately, they declined. Although I'd be disappointed, I can see you to your door right now."
Holding her glass up for a refill, Anna gave Theo her most charming smile. "And waste all this tasty wine and lovely company. I think not Theo. I'll stay for a bit longer."
"Excellent," replied Theo. "After all, we still have to discuss Sunday dinner and before. Sunday dinner is usually served at 5:00 pm, but if at all possible, I'd like you to arrive by 2:30 to have some time with Declan and meet his man. It's possible Conor and Mick will be at the table as well."
"Alright Theo. I'll be at your front doors at 2:30. I'd really like to visit with the young wizard who thinks so highly of me. I just hope I don't disappoint anyone."
Theo wanted to reach for her hand to offer assurances, but he didn't. He didn't want this witch to run away in fright. Instead, he assured her verbally that her company would be most welcome.
/*/
After one last drink, Anna stood. "Time for me to be on my way. Thanks again for the lovely night. I'll see you tomorrow."
Theo stood when Anna stood and opened a top drawer of his desk to pull out a small vial. "It's late. It is my intention to see you home safely. I keep a few short distance portkeys in my desk for situations like this. If you'll share your information, I'll be glad to speak it into the portkey and we can go."
Anna nodded her acceptance. "Not only are you handsome and forthright, you are chivalrous as well."
After Theo finished inputting her flat information, he told Anna to take his arm then touch the small vial, which she did. Fifteen minutes later, Theo landed back in his den, put away the liquor, cleared away the glasses then headed to his bedroom.
This had been a very good night.
/*/
Hermione walked over to Draco and put her arm through his. Tracey nodded in Hermione's direction before telling Draco it had good seeing him.
"Sorry love. I didn't mean to run your former admirer away. You are very popular tonight."
Keeping a tight smile on his face, Draco spoke softly. "While I detect a bit of sarcasm in your remark, I'll overlook it because at this very moment we are standing in the middle of my mate's hall supposedly enjoying ourselves. What we can do is revisit this conversation in the comfort and privacy of our home. Let's go find Theo to say goodnight."
Once they landed at Draco's, Hermione recognized she had once again been destructive and reassessed her behavior apologizing for her snide comments. "I think you misconstrued what I said Draco. It was just a bit of humor with a touch of jealousy thrown in. I hope my remarks didn't upset you."
"Nope. Your comments didn't upset me in the least. I just thought we should leave before something upset you. I'm going to take a quick shower. I actually didn't eat much. There's leftover beef in the fridge. How about we have a sandwich and a drink before turning in?"
Hermione was puzzled and a bit dismayed. Draco wasn't acting like himself. At least he wasn't responding as he normally did when she said something foolish. Yes, she knew her words had been foolish but she had been annoyed with the happenings. Now those happenings were over and she wanted to have a reasonable conversation.
/*/
By the time Draco had showered and entered the kitchen, the beef sandwiches were hot and waiting. "The sandwiches are ready. Come sit down love. I added some onions and lettuce."
Draco smiled at Hermione but the smile didn't reach his eyes. "Thank you. All the food available at Theo's and I think I only had a bite of the Porchetta. Silly of me really. You're right. This sandwich is delicious. I'm curious Hermione. Do you have something you need to discuss? I understand you said it was a bit of humor and jealousy. Which part was the humor and which part was the jealousy? Enlighten me."
Hermione sighed. Draco wasn't going to let it go. It was time to account for her foolish words. As she sat there pondering how to begin, Hermione got the feeling their relationship was once again on tilt and once again she was the cause. It seemed she was her own worst enemy.
Draco summoned his wand to clear the table as he waited for Hermione to begin. He wasn't angry. He was tired. As he sat there, the proverbial crack in the door seemed to widen ever so slightly.