Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 77

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.

/

Returning To His Roots: Chapter 78

Draco sat there listening to Hermione go on about why she made the comments and how seeing him with a witch wrapped around his arm made her feel. He nodded half listening waiting for her to get to the part he wanted to hear.

Not there yet he thought to himself as Hermione sat blaming his tone on Nils being at the party.

"We've spoken about Nils on several occasions Draco. I just don't understand why you let Nils get up your nose. You and I are a couple. Nils is a colleague. Please stop thinking otherwise. I'm the one who should have taken a tone when I spotted Gabriella wrapped around you like a cheap Basic Wear suit. The witch even had the nerve to say she would have gladly given you her information had you asked."

"I'll admit, Nils does bother me."

Hermione let out a soft huff. "He shouldn't…."

Draco held up a hand interrupting whatever Hermione was going to say. "Let me finish Hermione. The tosser bothers me not because I think he is interfering in our relationship, but because he is a smug arsehole who oversteps. As for the witch, she introduced herself while I was having a conversation with Brian and Donald. I don't know her and didn't have any intention of asking for her information. Do you want a glass of juice?" Asked Draco, summoning orange juice and two glasses.

"I'll have a glass, but have you heard anything I've said? I'm trying to explain myself."

"And a fine job you've done love. I appreciate that you even want to have a conversation. I think it all boils down to reassessing ourselves. As you say, we are in a relationship which means we both need to start treating each other better. Something pushed us off track for a moment, but we are working to get ourselves back on track. From here, we agree to stay on track. It's late." He added, reaching for Hermione's hand. "Let's settle in for the night. You plan to work on your new department and I plan to work on not being such a prat."

Hermione laughed as she let go of Draco's hand to wrap her arms around his waist. "You may be a prat, but you're my prat."

"Hahaha. That I am."Answered Draco, leaning down to kiss Hermione on the forehead. "That I am."

Even though it was late, the prat and his witch spent another hour talking and cuddling before finally falling asleep.

/*/

Miss Anna Grace was walking on air as she stood waving her wand and watching as her lovely dress hung itself, as her shoes placed themselves and her underwear dropped into the dirty clothes bin. As naked as the day she was born, Anna sat on the side of her bed and summoned an old nightdress thinking she'd need to purchase certain items in case it came down to showing her dainties to Mr. Theo Nott.

Anna felt a blush creep up her face. Here she was thinking about… about getting into a compromising position with Theo when all she'd had was a few dances, a meal together and an invitation to Sunday dinner.

After slipping the nightdress over her head, Anna sat with her arms wrapped around herself hoping that Theo Nott would still be interested in her in the light of day. Anna felt a few tears slide down her face as she thought of how proud her mum would be if she had the chance to see her daughter being pursued by a highly esteemed Realtor.

Anna stretched and yawned then snorted over her brazen line of thinking. "Being pursued by a highly esteemed Realtor, as if. It's only a pursuit if he starts pursuing me. I look forward to Sunday dinner and seeing young Declan Nott again."

/*/

Severus was leaned over the desk in his study reviewing paperwork when Jean came up behind poking him in the ribs. "It's almost Sunday Sev. Is there anything you'd like to do in the waning hours before you turn back into Snape the ogre?" She joked.

With hands still on the desk, Severus glanced at his Wonder Wizard Watch then turned his head to glance at Jean replying in his Snape drawl. "If you hadn't already worn me out with your sex, I would have had a very snappy answer for you."

"Ah! A snappy answer is it?" She asked, wrapping her arms around Severus from the back. "A better answer would have been, your very presence makes me want to spend the last hour of our Saturday kissing you all over."

Severus couldn't help the grin that appeared on his face as he turned to face his lover. "I'll assume by your cheeky response that I missed a few spots. If so, I've certainly been remiss in my duties. How about this? Allow me five minutes to put away my work then I'll be glad to tidy up all your dry ends."

Jean laughed out loud as she folded herself into Severus' arms and replied in a sultry voice. "There never has been and there never will be a time when I lie with you and remain dry, because you have the ability to make me very wet even without kissing me all over."

"Now look what you've done." Severus whispered, pushing his quickly forming erection against Jean. Picking up his wand, he gave one quick flick and the papers on the desk fluttered into a neat pile. "Your words have inflamed me to the point where standing here talking is the last place I want to be. Come with me." He said, looking back at Jean as he led her toward the Messiah's big bed. "And I mean that literally."

Jean grinned at Severus' back. Her wizard had one thing right. Nothing had spoiled their Saturday.

/*/

Blaise and Ginny were enjoying a last drink of the evening discussing this and that when Blaise brought up the elephant in the room. Pulling his witch closer, Blaise ran his hand up and down Ginny's arm. "You looked beautiful tonight Gin. Not that you don't always look beautiful…."

Ginny raised her face and pressed her lips against Blaise's lips. "Listen to you. Throwing out Zabini compliments left and right. I've been with you long enough to know when you have something to discuss but are reluctant to discuss it. You preempt the conversation with compliments. Theo's party and your presence have put me in a decidedly good mood. Tell me what's on your mind."

Lifting one of Ginny's hands, Blaise kissed the back of it. "I know you have just returned to London and probably haven't even had a chance to unpack, but….." Here he hesitated.

"But Blaise, but? Out with it please."

"You're right love. Now is not the time for procrastinating. While things are good at the moment, I'd like to discuss us. I'd like to know if there is still an us. Right now, we are all smiles and cuddles. Will we still be that during or after a disagreement."

Before answering, Ginny turned so her feet were on the floor.

Blaise sighed thinking Ginny was about to huff up and argue, so he was pleasantly surprised at what she did and what came out of her mouth.

Leaning in and resting her head on his shoulder, she replied. "Believe it or not Blaise I've done quite a bit of thinking while I was away. Of course your caring and magnanimous attitude had a lot to do with it as well. We are both strong and opinionated people, but we are brilliant as well. I think we can manage to work around any hiccups that might arise in our relationship. So, the answer to your question is yes. Yes love there is an us."

This is what Blaise wanted to hear, needed to hear because Ginevra Weasley was the witch he wanted. Grabbing his witch, Blaise locked his lips on hers. "I love you Ginevra Weasley. We can do this."

Ginny returned the sentiment because this was the wizard she wanted. This was the wizard she loved. "Now that we have the important stuff out of the way, let's make a plan to go back to Scotland to hex the crap out of that obnoxious hotel clerk."

Blaise laughed as he grabbed Ginny's hand and kissed it again. "Now, now Miss Weasley. From here, we'll leave miserable sots to themselves while we proceed merrily on our way. Besides, I've just gotten you back. I don't want you to go back to Scotland for anything."

Ginny let out a gentle sigh. "You know I don't have any control over where I'm sent, but I'll put up resistance if the boss tries to send me too far away." Grabbing Blaise by both hands, Ginny began dragging him to the bedroom. "I think we've done enough talking. It's time for you to take the witch who loves you to bed for some overdue attention."

Blaise didn't have to be dragged. "Yes. Overdue attention. I think I can manage that. If not, I'll keep trying until I get it right. It's the least I can do."

"Then nothing more needs to be said Mr. Zabini. Just come do your worst."

As Blaise undressed himself and Ginny, he ran his hands up and down her body which left his witch quivering. Pulling her into a fierce kiss, Blaise murmured how he hoped she'd never leave him. Ginny had a quick answer.

"Why would I go anywhere when I have the most handsome, sexy and sexual wizard in London."

"Just London?" Joked Blaise. "I would have thought I did Scotland justice as well."

Ginny pulled Blaise down on top of her before cheeking him back. "Keep talking git and it will be Sunday which in itself is fine, but I was quite looking forward to a hot, Saturday night shag."

Holding both Ginny's hands up beside her head with one hand, Blaise pushed himself in while staring into her eyes. "I've got your hot, Saturday night shag right here love. Come and get it."

And she did.

/*/

As she showered, Gloria Isles grumbled about how she had mucked up once again. She had thought she would get at least a few dates and a few meals out of Nils if she let him under her skirt. However, that didn't seem to be the case as Nils had skittered away almost before his dick stopped spurting. He had left an obligatory kiss on her forehead before quick stepping to the door, but nothing more. No, I'll Owl you. No, I'll call you. Not even a thank you for your time slag.

Gloria was still overthinking and grumbling as she pulled her robe around her and headed for the kitchen. Right about now, a tea liberally laced with brandy was what she needed.

As she sat there sipping the doctored tea, she began to go over the night. Miss high and mighty Hermione Granger had chucked Terry aside and was all cuddly with Draco Malfoy. If she remembered correctly, Hermione had hated Draco then suddenly she was dating him. Some witches always landed on their feet. And Terry and the Della. Another cuddly couple who looked as though nothing mattered except each other. And forget Theo. He and the Anna witch appeared to be enthralled with each other. There wouldn't be any getting back with him. Now, she had shagged Nils. Probably everyone remaining at the party had seen her leave on his arm. What in bloody hell had she been thinking? Until a witch was in a permanent relationship, one of the most important things she had was her good name.

Swatting the teacup across the table, Gloria swore. "Fuck all of them. I'm a witch on my own and will be on my own until the right wizard comes along."

Summoning her wand, she sent the dishes to the sink with the comment they should wash themselves. Then she headed to bed. However, the bed needed a bit of an adjustment before she could lie down. As quick and unfulfilling as her sexual encounter with Nils had been, the evidence was clearly showing on the sheets. Using altogether too much power, Gloria swung her wand to clean the bed only to see not only the sheets, but the blankets and pillows go sailing through the air as well. Waving her wand more gently, she replaced all the bed items before slipping under the blanket.

As she closed her eyes, Gloria mumbled it might be time to reassess.

/**/

Sunday morning began in much the same way Saturday ended for Draco and Hermione, calm, loving and peaceful. They shared some camaraderie as well as two very hot sexual encounters. Lying side by side, Hermione was the first to comment.

"This is the way it should be love. No haranguing, no animosity just love and happiness."

Turning to kiss Hermione's stomach, Draco nodded in agreement. "I concur love. I think I'll keep you."

Hermione slid off the bed chiding Draco as she went. "Is that so Mr. Malfoy? You'll keep me? I think it works both ways. We'll keep each other. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to shower. I want to have brunch with my handsome wizard before heading into my brand new Transition Department. Ah, Transition Department. It has such a lovely ring to it."

Flopping onto his stomach, Draco chuckled out loud. "Yes it does. It is my hope that with the new department will come the delivery of mobiles. It was weeks ago when you brought a test mobile home. Seems as though they should be in the hands of customers by now."

Hermione stopped in her tracks. Draco was right. Mobiles should have already been in the hands of customers. No problem. After she finished up that afternoon, there would be loads of mobiles to be picked up or delivered. "Tell you what we can do. I have copies of most orders. If you can get your lazy lout arse out of the house, come by WCS and I'll fill our order and as many of the others that I can. Best of all, you can be the delivery wizard. How does that sound?"

"Sounds fantastic." Draco remarked, jumping out of bed. "Because my witch is so accommodating with regard to our mobiles, I will prepare the brunch. I'll just throw a clean up spell over myself while you shower. By the time that lovely arse gets to the kitchen, brunch will be ready. Hurry up now. I don't want you to be late getting our mobiles in order."

Hermione smiled the entire shower. It really was nice when she and Draco were on the same page.

/*/

Draco was on point. When Hermione arrived to the table, she found an array of items, eggs, sausage, fried potatoes, toast, freshly cut chicken slices, sliced tomatoes, sliced onions, lettuce and tea.

"Thank you love. You've outdone yourself." She said, giving Draco a quick kiss that landed on his eye.

"I adore your kisses love, but that one nearly blinded me."

Hermione laughed out loud as she reached for some of everything on the table. "Sorry. It was meant for your temple, but you moved."

"Well, I hope Severus has made some of those mobiles in Braille because now I'm blind."

Hermione continued to laugh at the nonsense coming out of Draco's mouth. "Big baby." She said when her mouth was clear. "You'll be singing a different tune when you have a mobile in your hand. Speaking of mobiles. I've just had a brilliant idea. Why don't you accompany me to WCS. That way we can input mobile numbers before handing them out."

For a second, Draco didn't comprehend. "Why would we do that?"

Hermione explained how beneficial it would be if their friends had numbers of other friends already in the device when they received it. "We would only do it for a favorite few."

"I knew that. I was just checking to see if you knew that." He joked. "I'm going to shower. If we hurry, we can be to WCS by 1:30." Draco headed to the shower but turned back. "Shouldn't you run this by Severus or Jean before implementing?"

Hermione stopped chewing and gave Draco a hard stare. "Where will we be working?"

Draco paused. "The new Transition Department."

"Correct. Who is in charge of said department?"

"That would be you."

"So, what have we learned Mr. Malfoy?"

Turning and heading for the bathroom, Draco called back over his shoulder. "I don't know what we learned, but I've learned not to ask questions. Be out in twenty."

Nodding her head as if she was hearing some tune in her head, Hermione answered softly. "Right in one wanker."

/*/

Severus had eaten breakfast, finished up his reports, showered and was tapping his foot waiting for Jean. "Will you be ready in this century? I'd like us to get to WCS with all due speed."

"Calm down love. I'll be there in a minute."

"That's what she said five minutes ago." Severus mumbled very softly.

Jean hadn't heard Severus say anything, but she knew her wizard so she inquired. "Did you say something love? I didn't hear what you said."

Severus grinned at his irreverent witch knowing her questions were nothing more than supposition because he hadn't spoken loud enough for her to hear. "I didn't say a thing, but I will say, if you're ready, it's time to go to work."

"Alright Messiah. It's time to get to work."

Five minutes later, they stepped out of the floo only to hear Hermione ordering someone around.

"No. Not like that. Do one at a time."

Two steps behind Severus, Jean smiled at the loud sigh that had escaped him. "You didn't have to worry Sev. Your boss is already here bossing someone around. I'll say good afternoon then I'm going to DMTS for a bit. I won't be long."

"Alright Jean. Let's say good afternoon together."

/*/

Draco and Hermione turned when Severus and Jean greeted them. "Good afternoon Severus, Jean. Draco and I are putting orders together. We are also inputting mobile numbers into the phones of a select group of people."

"Sounds like a great idea Hermione." Jean replied.

Rolling his eyes in Jean's direction, Severus simply said. "Explain please."

Before Hermione could speak, Jean excused herself.

With a little wave at Jean's back, Hermione explained what she and Draco were doing showing him the three phones they'd already finished.

Severus couldn't find any flaw. In fact, he thought it was quite brilliant. "Well done Hermione, Draco. This is something I will pass on to DMTS. They might have to apply it a bit differently, but they'll figure it out. If I may be so bold, I'd like you to set up ten phones for Ministry personnel with all the important numbers such as Department Heads, Assistants, etc., etc. Those ten you will leave with me. The rest can be delivered as you see fit. Very nicely done. I'll be in my office if you need me."

After Severus walked away, Draco pulled Hermione into a tight hug congratulating her for once again being Severus' darling. "I'm not sure love, but I think he would have kissed you if I wasn't here."

Hermione pushed Draco away calling him a wanker and telling him to get back to work.

Draco just smiled. His witch was brilliant.

/*/

Draco and Hermione worked industriously for another two hours before they had enough to be delivered. "Why don't you take this lot and drop them off. It's Sunday. Everyone should be at home. I'll hand Severus his ten then continue to work on the rest. It might take some getting used to, but try to remember we both now have mobiles. You can call to harass me anytime you like."

"Harass you? I think not. I'll only be calling to check that you haven't worked yourself to death. Anyway, I know the only reason you want me to leave is so you can get your kiss from Severus."

Coming around the counter, Hermione wrapped her arms around Draco's neck pulling herself close. "Jealous Malfoy?"

Draco kissed her lips before responding with a bit of cheek. "Not jealous just a bit curious."

"Curious?"

"Yes, curious about how long it would take you to hex him and be sacked if his lips went anywhere near you."

Hermione felt herself flush. She hadn't mentioned her and Severus' back in the day awkward foray into kissing and never would. Let Draco think what he liked. "Ah! You'd like to see me sacked, wouldn't you? Then I'd be dependent on your Malfoy money for sustenance and shelter. Not going to happen wanker."

Draco smiled as he gathered up the phones. With a faux growl, he told Hermione he was leaving to find wizards who didn't think he was a wanker.

Hermione threw out a line she's heard in a muggle movie. "Have fun storming the castle."

Draco waved as he headed to the door softly telling Hermione that he loved her. He'd said it softly so he wouldn't upset Severus by talking romance or relationships in his place of business.

Once outside, Draco checked his list. His first stop would be Esther Nott. Her mobile only had two numbers, Theo and Mr. Casper. She could add the rest as she chose. Mr. Casper's mobile only had one number, Esther's. Casper could also add other numbers as he chose. After that, he would stop by Jay's flat to deliver his and Leanne's phones and so on down the line. Draco had an ulterior motive for saving Theo until last. He wanted to find out more about Miss Anna Grace.

/*/

Anna had dressed early and spent the hour from 1:00 to 2:00 pacing the floor. Had she dressed appropriately? Were her shoes acceptable? Should she get there exactly at 2:30 or five minutes early? Questions, questions, questions. She finally settled down at 2:15 by taking a small drink of wine. The drink had been enough to soother her case of nerves. It was a Sunday dinner. Even though she didn't have the best credentials, she did have manners and would act accordingly. Theo had already explained he didn't expect any favors. There was nothing to be nervous about. With a last sigh, Anna gathered her purse and wand and apparated to the Nott Estate.

/*/

When the door opened, what was left of Anna's fear and trepidation dissolved instantly. Theo had greeted her with a wide smile and a welcoming arm.

"Anna. Right on time. I'm so glad you could make it. You look lovely."

Anna blushed but remained composed as she listened to Theo go on.

"Declan has been in an uproar ever since I mentioned you would be coming to dinner. Fortunately for him, his man has a way with young wizards in an uproar. Come on through to the living room where I'll hand you a wine and we can dazzle each other by sharing our life stories before I get Declan and introduce you to Reg Briggs Declan's man as well. I hope you'll forgive me if I'm not calling Reg by his correct position name. I think Man sounds better than Manny." Theo shrugged. "You'll have to school me on the niceties as I haven't ever dealt with things of that nature before. Anyway, tell me something about yourself that wasn't in your application."

Anna started off slowly, but felt completely relaxed after a few minutes of looking into Theo's friendly eyes. For thirty minutes she explained how she had been on a different path but had to leave Uni when her family had been killed. To support herself she had taken a course in Household Support and come away with enough credentials to become a Nanny.

Theo reached out and took her hand telling her she shouldn't apologize for things she couldn't control because any position was a good position if it allowed a roof over the head and food on the table.

Anna was quick to explain that she wasn't apologizing. She was explaining. Theo was pleased she had spoken up. A confident witch was right up his alley.

Letting go of Anna's hand, Theo began to share his own history hoping it wouldn't scare the lovely witch away. It didn't. Anna sat enthralled through it all and was particularly interested in the part where Brendan Eilson AKA Severus Snape swooped in and saved his life. She was also highly respectful when Theo spoke about Padma realizing it was taking a lot out of him to reopen old wounds.

/*/

It would be a bit later, that Anna realized it was while Theo was sharing his heartache that she began to care about this strong wizard.

/*/

After Theo finished sharing, he and Anna sat there in silence. It didn't feel awkward to Anna. She was just giving Theo a bit of space. He'd speak when he was ready.

And he had. Back to himself, Theo stood telling Anna he was going to get Declan and Reg. "I'll be back in a second."

Anna sat there completely composed and eagerly waiting for the young wizard who found her so interesting.

/*/

An excited Declan came through greeting Anna with a wide smile on his face, but before he could speak out, Theo introduced Reg to Anna. Reg obviously had orders because after the introduction, he reminded Declan to be on his best behavior before excusing himself.

"Alright Reg, but I already know. Father has taught me to always be on my best behavior"

Reg nodded at his charge while Anna smiled. Theo didn't comment, but his look said he would be discussing the remark at a later date.

Theo then told Declan to escort Anna to the living room while he checked on dinner which he did by offering his small arm. "This way Miss Anna. Mother Padma asked me to choose you. I'm glad you came to dinner."

Being a Nanny, Anna knew young wizards sometimes spoke out of turn and this was one of those times. Declan should not be discussing Mother Padma or choices out of the earshot of his father or his Man. She gently reminded him that Nott business was Nott business. If his father wanted to share it with her, he would.

Declan blushed but spoke up for himself. "Of course Miss Anna. Thank you for reminding me. I hope I haven't embarrassed you because neither father nor Reg would be pleased. Please have a seat. I can tell you about my books if you like."

To Anna, books were a safe subject so she replied in the affirmative. "I'd like that very much Declan."

/*/

Declan was five minutes into his recitation when Theo entered the living room nodding his approval of the subject matter. However, before he could compliment his son, the doorbell rang. Wondering out loud who it could be, Theo rose from the chair to answer the door. Visitors were always welcome, but this Sunday he had planned to visit with Anna. If it wasn't anything important, he might just turn the visitor away. Theo was surprised when he opened the door to find a grinning Draco on his stoop.

"Draco?"

"Yup. That would be me. I've come to deliver your mobile and explain what my brilliant witch has done."

Theo stepped aside hoping Draco didn't want to have some long winded conversation. "Come on through mate. We are in the living room. I have a guest whom I don't want to leave sitting alone, so please keep your conversation short. After you greet her, we can speak in the study. We are having lamb for dinner if you'd like to stay."

Shite, thought a surprised Draco as he greeted Anna and Declan. I'm intruding. "Hello Declan. Nice to see you again Anna. I'll only keep Theo a few minutes."

"Hello again Draco. There's no need to rush your conversation. I'm in absolutely enchanting company."

Theo hoped Draco had caught the silent message when he had cleared his throat. Anna might not mind him holding a lengthy conversation, but he did. Dates before mates. Theo smiled to himself as he and Draco headed to the study wondering where that piece of muggle shite had come from. Dates before mates, as if. It wasn't a date. It was dinner.

/*/

Hermione was working so Draco was at loose ends anyway. Even if he wasn't at loose ends, Theo was entertaining a witch. There was no way he would turn down the dinner invitation. There was a mystery afoot which he wanted to know more about.