Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 81
"Believe it or not, my most salient point to Severus was he should give Anna the same chance he has given Conor and Mick. I thought I might have gone too far with that one, but surprise, surprise he agreed with me. If all goes well during the interview, I expect Anna will have to give notice at the shop. It's only proper. She can be at WCS by June 3rd."
"Sounds fantastic," mumbled Draco between bites. "Let's just hope Severus and Jean like Anna as much as you do."
Hermione gave him the fish eye. "Don't be negative Draco. Why wouldn't they like her? She's a perfectly lovely, intelligent witch who just needs a hand up."
Draco thought about holding his tongue, but he didn't. "I'm not being negative love. I'm being realistic. You see a waif you want to help while Severus and Jean want someone who will fit in and work well at WCS." Before the conversation went left, Draco elaborated. "Anna strikes me as a soft spoken witch. You'll be having dinner with her tomorrow night. All I'm saying is be sure she is prepared for a Severus and Jean interview."
Hermione thought about it for a moment. Draco was right. Anna was soft spoken. It wouldn't hurt to share a few pointers. After all, many witches who interviewed with Severus didn't live to tell the tale. "Excellent point love. I will give her a few pointers. Thank you. I've talked so long the food has gotten cold." She remarked while waving her wand to heat up their food. "This chicken is delicious."
Then, looking Draco directly in the eye while waving her fork around, Hermione asked why he had been in to see Severus when they both had mobiles.
Draco held Hermione's gaze as he took another forkful. She had run out of things to say. It was his turn to talk, so he did.
/
Returning To His Roots: Chapter 82
Between bites, Draco explained about his epiphany regarding mobiles in Switzerland, his spur of the moment visit to WCS admitting he had forgotten about having a mobile until he was walking across the floor to Severus' office. He went on to explain ringing Severus later to offer his idea.
Hermione was almost as excited over Draco's idea as she was over her own. "What did Severus say? Is he…."
Draco cut across Hermione sporting a wide grin then shared how Severus just about told him to get his arse to Switzerland. "He is chuffed. I explained that I had to refuse going to Switzerland because Blaise had already denied me a vacation until I was with OTS for a year. He then told me if it became necessary he would go to Switzerland himself. I volunteered to get in touch with Wil and Desmond to set up connections and get back to him. When I heard back from Wil, Desmond and Clarke, I got back to Severus who made the decision to send the wiring and set up teams to Switzerland instead of Germany if he could get everything sorted. We left off…."
"What vacation? You haven't mentioned a vacation?"
Draco sighed. Suddenly his information about mobiles in Switzerland had become less important than a tentative at best holiday, but he answered frankly. "When we were having our little troubles, I thought about taking time to go back to Switzerland for a short holiday, but as I said, Blaise denied holiday time because I haven't been with the department long enough."
"You were going to Switzerland without me?" Hermione asked with a sniff.
Hermione was being annoying and Draco was getting annoyed, but patiently elaborated. "At that point in time, I believed we needed some time apart, so yes. I planned to visit my mates without you. That was then. This is now. Our relationship has since gotten back on track. Anyway, it's neither here nor there now. Wil and possibly Clarke or Desmond will be coming to London to meet with Severus and stay for a few days. We'll see them then."
"We'll see them then? We as in you and I or..."
Leaning back in the chair, Draco glared at Hermione. "I've explained my reasoning. I don't see why you're upset."
"I'm not upset Draco. I was simply questioning why you'd plan a holiday without me. However, you've made it clear enough. Now I know. I apologize for getting you off track."
Even though Hermione was saying the right things, the air in the kitchen suddenly seemed stuffy. Summoning his wand, Draco cast another reheat spell over both plates before silently tucking back in.
/*/
Suspecting her questions had driven Draco into silence, Hermione tried to restart the conversation.
"Finish your story love. I want to hear the rest."
With a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes, Draco shared the last little bit. "There's not much more to tell except Severus thinks if all goes well he could possibly have Switzerland up and running by Sunday evening."
Reaching across the table, Hermione grabbed Draco's hand. "Amazing. Severus certainly doesn't waste any time."
Draco replied, this time with a real grin. "You say that as if we didn't already know it. If the past is any measure of the present, my godfather will be going to Switzerland or he'll send Mick to ensure everything is done right."
Hermione made a soft chuckle. "Too true. If something has his name on it, Severus will make sure it's done right. Anyway, it will be nice to see Wil, Desmond and Clarke again."
"Yes it will. By the way, Wil sends his regards. He mentioned if we weren't still dating, I should put a good word in for him. I told him to sod off."
Hermione chuckled even louder. "Still a tosser then?"
Draco gave Hermione a hard stare as he replied. "Perhaps, but he'll be a tosser without my witch."
A now giggling Hermione twirled her wand a few times to clear away the dinner remains. "Excellent dinner Mr. Malfoy. Let's go relax for a bit where you can expound on how many witches tried to catch your attention because of that gray suit."
Draco responded with his own bit of humor. "Although I am a fine specimen of wizard and my suit is quite handsome, the answer to your query would be none. Actually, if any witch was oogling me, I wouldn't know because I am not a witch watcher. I have the witch I want to watch."
Hermione threw her arms around Draco's neck. "I love it when you spout shite because you don't want to get your arse hexed."
Crushing his lips to hers, Draco mumbled. "Yes, there's that. Let's go relax."
/*/
While they were relaxing, Hermione remembered she had invited Anna to dinner. As she laid there running her hands across Draco's chest and through his hair, she reminded him they would be having company for dinner tomorrow.
Just before he relieved Hermione of her pajamas, Draco murmured. "Lovely."
/*/
Mick Byrne was a bit surprised when Severus personally stopped by the wiring department Monday afternoon to request a short meeting in his office in ten minutes. Mick, who was sure there wasn't any fault with his work wondered what Severus had on his mind.
Ten minutes later, Mick was in Severus' office listening to him explain about Switzerland and how there was a slight possibility Mick might have to travel if a top wirer was needed to oversee the project.
Although, in the past, he had to travel from one bum position to the next to keep money in his pocket, Mick had found what he hoped was his forever home in London. He'd have to go if required, but wasn't chuffed about it. However, he had good sense to answer with a positive response. "This sounds like an outstanding opportunity Severus. I'll be happy to do my part. Is there a scheduled departure date?"
Severus wanted to smile. He might be much older than most of his employees but he recognized hidden reluctance when he saw it. His top wizard in the wiring department no more wanted to go to Switzerland than he did. However, if that's what was needed, that's what would be done. "Thank you for being so receptive Mr. Byrne. I will stress that you going to Switzerland will be a last resort. I'm hoping it won't come to that. In the immediate future, all that might be necessary is for you to make yourself available Thursday mid-morning to the Swiss wizards who are coming to London to acquaint themselves with mobiles."
Mick felt a bit relieved. He wasn't being sent to Switzerland on the next portkey. He was simply a backup measure if all didn't go to plan. Mick answered accordingly. "As I said, I appreciate you extending me such a great opportunity. I'm even more chuffed to find out I'm only the backup plan. I can make myself available at any time with ten minutes notice."
This time, Severus did smile as he mentally patted himself on the back. He had such excellent insight. "That's all I have for now. If anything changes, I'll let you know."
"Alright Severus. Good day to you."
"Good day to you as well Mick.
On his way back to the wiring department, Mick stopped off in the men's where he let out a huge sigh of relief as he glanced in the mirror over the sink. "Thank Merlin Mick Byrne is just a backup plan."
/*/
Jean was pleased with the way things were going in DMTS. The entire team was stepping up. Cassie had the front end running so smoothly, Jean barely had to check on her. Conor was another exemplary team member. He had set up demonstration booths at the front end to teach new mobile owners the ins and outs of their new devices. To make it easy, he had posted a large sign just inside the doors informing clients that the demonstrations went off every twenty minutes for those who cared to sign up. He had even requested authorization to set up a small tea area where the clients could wait for the next demonstration to begin. He was as busy as Cassie. Jean loved it.
The only small wrinkle was Gloria. Although she was doing a great job, it seemed to Jean that Gloria wasn't chuffed to be stuck in a Ministry department. It was with that thought in mind Jean had been quick to offer Gloria up when Severus mentioned giving Hermione an assistant.
Severus had been surprised when Jean mentioned Gloria as a possible candidate, and questioned her at length with the upshot being Jean didn't have a problem sending Gloria back to WCS. However, Hermione would be the deciding factor. It would be she who had to work with the assistant, so it should be she who had the last say.
When Severus got back to her with Hermione's input, Jean had been chuffed not to have approached Gloria with the proposition because Hermione already had a witch in mind. Her name was Anna Grace and they would be interviewing her Thursday morning. For now, unless Gloria specifically asked to be moved, she would remain at DMTS.
/*/
Conor and Cassie didn't mind any extra work. They were happy to oversee the front end together as it gave them time to sneak a few kisses when they were alone. In between demonstrations, Conor and Cassie sometimes met up in the tea room to do a little more than kiss.
This particular Monday they had nearly been caught with their hands in places they shouldn't be during work hours. Severus had popped in to compliment them on the job they were doing seconds after they had pulled apart. Severus noticed but didn't comment on Cassie's beet red countenance or Conor's quick turn away to hide a burgeoning bulge. He had given his compliments then left the area.
"Oh Merlin. We would both be out on our arses if Severus had entered the room several seconds earlier." Carrie whispered.
Conor concurred. "You're right on that front love. Jean and Severus trusts us to do our jobs, but we are taking liberties because we can. That stops today. I don't think a quick rub and tug at work is worth either of us losing our esteemed positions in a prestigious department."
Cassie nodded. "I agree love. From here, we keep our minds on our work and our hands to ourselves."
They both hurried back to their positions still thanking Merlin Severus had not walked in seconds earlier.
/*/
Earlier, Gloria had dawdled a bit when passing Jean's office after hearing her name come up in conversation. Hermione Granger who was now in charge of The Transition Department at WCS was looking for an assistant and Jean had recommended her. For the several seconds she listened in, Gloria was chuffed. DMTS was an excellent department if one wanted to be stuck inside all day doing the same mundane things over and over. Initially, it had been great being chosen for the newest Ministry department, but lately…. Lately she had been regretting leaving WCS.
/*/
As the day went on, Gloria became antsy waiting for Jean to call her into the office to discuss the Assistant's position. When Jean hadn't called her by late afternoon, Gloria made an excuse to visit Jean's office.
Knock, knock.
Jean who was in the middle of documenting that days business looked up to see Gloria at her door. "Gloria. Come on in. What can I do for you?"
Now that she was in the office, Gloria had to reach for a reason for appearing at Jean's door, so she pulled one straight out of her arse. "I'd like to request a late start on Wednesday as I have an important engagement. The appointment should be over and done by 10:30."
Jean didn't hesitate to give Gloria the requested time off, but had a strong feeling something else was going on. Realizing it wasn't her place to step into a staff member's business, Jean didn't press. Instead, she tried a bit of psychology when Gloria didn't move after having her request granted. "How is everything going? Nice bit of magic Hermione used setting up the mobiles with telephone numbers. It's nice to be able to offer our clients a few perks."
Gloria straightened up in her seat. She'd hard everything Jean had said but discarded it all when Jean mentioned Hermione's name. Perhaps she would also bring up the topic of Hermione needing an assistant. No such luck though. Jean didn't mention anything about the position so she did. "How is everything going with The Transition Department upgrade? I heard Hermione is looking for an assistant."
It was at that moment Jean realized Gloria might have heard her conversation with Severus and was fishing for the outcome. Smiling to herself, Jean gave Gloria a mental compliment. The witch was way ahead of her. No one had come to her so she was coming to the Head. All well and good but she wasn't going to like the consensus. "The Transition Department upgrade has been a smooth one. Both Severus and Hermione are quite satisfied. In fact, Severus is so satisfied he has granted Hermione's request to hire an assistant."
Gloria sat up even straighter as she replied to Jean's statement. "An assistant? That sounds promising. As fast as Hermione is moving up, the assistant might well be Head of Transition Department before very long."
Jean shook her head. "That thinking may be getting ahead of things. While true Hermione has been through three positions in a short period of time does not mean she will be Minister before morning. For now, she and her assistant will remain where they are. Hermione has a candidate she feels is most promising. Severus and I will be interviewing the witch this Thursday coming."
With Jean's last words, Gloria seemed to slump in her chair with her hopes dashed. Hermione Granger had obviously rejected her as a candidate which must be the reason Jean hadn't mentioned the position. Gloria's last thought before rising from the chair had been, Hermione Granger can kiss my arse. Knowing she had lost before even entering the race, Gloria thanked Jean for authorizing her time off and left the office.
Jean shook her head. Gloria wasn't happy where she was. She would have to mention this bit of news to Severus. He had so much on his plate he definitely wouldn't be pleased. However, he would have to be told.
/*/
Instead of going back to her office, Gloria stopped in the Ladies to quietly vent her frustrations. Pulling her mobile from her pocket, she dialed Nils. She needed to hear a soothing voice. He answered on the fourth ring.
Hello love. I'm in the middle of a transaction. What can I do for you?
How thoughtless of me calling you in the middle of the day for a cozy chat. Those of us stuck inside the Ministry all day forget there are people who have to move from place to place during the day. I actually wanted nothing more than to hear your voice. I've heard it so I'll let you get back to work.
Nils was puzzled. Gloria wasn't sounding like herself.
Listen sweet. I can't speak freely now and I have four more stops after this. Why don't we plan for a nice dinner tonight. We can order takeaway or we can have a date night out. I'll call you after my last stop.
Gloria was feeling foolish for interrupting Nils day.
I'll look for your call, but I've heard your voice so I'm fine. I look forward to spending the night in your arms.
Nils lowered his voice.
Naughty witch speaking to me in that manner when I'm unable to do anything about it. I must get off this call. I feel like having a pork roast. I'll see you this evening, pork roast in hand. Have a good afternoon.
Alright. See you then. You have a good afternoon as well.
Gloria had just ended the call when Cassie came through the door rushing to the toilet. "Hey Gloria. I couldn't hold this pee one minute longer. How's everything?"
"Everything is good Cassie. How is it going out front?"
"It's a bit quiet at the moment, but Conor will be doing a demo in ten minutes. Things will liven up then. He makes learning the mobile interesting. Even if he's my wizard and my view a bit slanted, I must say he's brilliant. How is Nils? We four should set a date night. I think it will be fun."
Gloria wasn't the least bit interested in going out with the brilliant Mr. Byrne or Jean's little favorite, but had to keep up a front. "Date night does sound like fun. I'll mention it to Nils. I'd better get back to my office before the others think I've gone missing. Have a good afternoon."
Still sitting on the toilet, Cassie spoke to the air around her. "So enthusiastic. I guess that was me getting the brush off. Just another day at DMTS folks. Nothing to see here."
/*/
It was coming up on 8:30 pm on Monday evening and Wil Baker and Thom Clarke had been sitting at the bar in Haller's since 6:30 drinking and discussing their upcoming trip to London. They both were on their third akvavit and it was showing. Not only were they sharing stories about Draco but themselves as well.
Karl the bar wizard at Haller's had just moved away to serve another customer after sharing a lowly spoken risque story about a night in the life of Draco Malfoy with Wil and Clarke two of his favorite customers which left the wizards convulsing with laughter.
"Good one Karl. You'd probably have a fight on your hands if Draco heard you telling that story." Wil called to Karl's back.
"Too true." Added Clarke, lifting the glass to his mouth. "Mr. Malfoy doesn't take kindly to remembrances of that nature. I'm looking forward to seeing that boy again. His antics are missed here in Switzerland."
Wil was nodding his head. "Absolutely. We were such a good team. An outrageous team, but a good one. However, Draco has settled into a serious relationship with the lovely Miss Granger. I believe he isn't generating any scorching gossip these days. The lad is in love."
Clarke held up a finger to get Karl's attention. "We'll see. Mr. Malfoy is not known to have a long attention span. He might be onto the next witch by now."
"Not this time Clarke. This time I think the witch has caught and held his attention, which, while good for Draco, is unfortunate for me. I was definitely interested in….."
Clarke laughed out loud. "You're barking Wil. Hermione Granger wasn't the least bit interested in your sorry ass. Get over yourself before Draco has to help you do it."
The two mates chuckled as they started on their fourth akvavit which was half gone in record time.
"It's getting late. I think I'll go home, throw together a quick meal then get myself sorted for the trip. I suggest you do the same Clarke. We meet on Thursday, but we don't yet know if Severus Snape wants to see us before then."
"That's true." Clarke replied, finishing his drink before getting off the stool. "Since you'll be the so-called leader in this, I suggest you also put together some sort of presentation. We can't stand in front of a master entrepreneur with our bare asses hanging out."
Wil clapped his mate on the back. "I'll do that because I don't feature standing in front of anyone with my bare ass hanging out. Those days are over." He added with a chuckle.
"Hahaha. Those days might be long over, but I'm sure a fetching witch wanting to show her knickers will change your mind."
Remembering back to what transpired with Betty Goyle, Wil stood there with a beet red face. "Yeah well. That was a fluke. How did I know that a pair of pretty knickers would almost get me killed at the hand of her nutter brother? I've learned my lesson."
"Bullshit," snorted Clarke. "I'll probably have to come to your rescue if some lovely lass shakes her ass in your face. Anyway, the issue is moot as Hermione Granger will probably want to monopolize all your free time."
Waving to Karl, Wil started for the door throwing a last barb at Clarke. "You're just jealous no witch wants your sorry ass. I'll see you at work."
"I'm right behind you mate. Don't splinch that sorry ass getting home. I don't want to go to London without you."
"I'll take your words under consideration. Night mate."
"Goodnight Wil. See you in the morning."
With a wave, Wil was gone.
Karl inquired if Clarke wanted a last drink, but Thom declined. It wasn't any fun drinking alone.
/*/
Although he was supposed to be reviewing documents pertaining to the Swiss set up, Severus had an eye on Jean who seemed to be treading lightly ever since they arrived at the house. He knew she would share what was on her mind in her own good time, but was annoyed she wouldn't come right out with it.
"Severus?"
Finally, he thought.
"Yes Jean? Is my dinner on the table?" He asked being an arse.
Jean huffed at him. "No Severus. Dinner is not ready. The mashed are giving me a hard time."
Severus let out a soft sigh. Now he was sure Jean had something to discuss. She wasn't ever short with him unless she was joking or under stress. Getting up from his chair, Severus went to the kitchen to find no dinner and Jean drinking a wine. Pulling Jean to her feet, Severus kissed her forehead offering a bit of Snape cheek. "It would seem that the mashed are not only giving you a hard time but have completely disappeared. You are my backbone love. It's hard for me to function when I think you are in distress. Please tell me what's on your mind."
Jean took in a deep breath releasing it as a soft sigh. Her wizard didn't miss a thing. "You have so much on your plate love. I didn't want to burden you with yet another thing."
A number of things ran through Severus' mind, but he couldn't think of anything Jean would think would upset him. One thought that did try to settle in his head was Miss Graham and Mr. Byrne had been caught in flagrante, but he quickly tossed that aside. They might be two horny twenty somethings but they weren't stupid. Almost being caught out had probably set them straight. "Burden me? Don't be annoying Jean. If you have something to discuss, please just get to it so I can get back to my business or have dinner, whichever comes first."
Pulling herself away from Severus, Jean sat back down and came right out with it. "I believe Gloria is unhappy at DMTS."
Severus dropped into a chair. He didn't need this shite right now. "Has she mentioned she is unhappy?"
"No she hasn't."
"Please don't make me have to pull it out of you. What makes you think Miss Isles is unhappy at DMTS?"
Jean began to explain herself. "Along with a prevailing sad demeanor which is why I suggested her for the position in the first place, she came to my office inquiring about the Assistant position at WCS then seemed quite despondent when I mentioned Hermione already had a candidate in mind. She may have heard part of our conversation."
Severus was amazed. An unhappy employee was making his witch lose her mind. "This isn't like you. Why are the unspoken thoughts of this particular member of staff wreaking such havoc? The witch will continue to perform satisfactorily or she'll be out on her arse free to pursue any position she likes. I suggest you ignore your feelings on this until Gloria tells you exactly what is on her mind. Until that time, I insist you keep a close eye on my mashed because I'm quite hungry."
Reaching out for Severus' hand, Jean gave him the direct stare and called him a git.
Ignoring the insult, Severus headed back to the study calling over his shoulder. "If it will ease your mind, let me assure you Hermione might think she has the last say, but if Miss Grace doesn't work out we will do what we needs to be done. If Hermione wants any assistant at all, she'll go along or work alone. Simple."
"I love you Severus Snape." Jean called back.
"Suddenly you love me. A few seconds ago I was a git. Make up your mind witch or I will take a page out of Hermione's book to find myself a new assistant.
Laughing to herself as she waved her wand to fix dinner, Jean replied in a very low voice. "If the git had an assistant, I might be worried. Since I'm his second in command, he has no power here."
As softly as Jean had spoken, Severus heard every word and smiled.