Previously on Returning To His Roots: Chapter 89
Narcissa waited. No one came through. Then she heard a second swish. The first thing that popped into her head was Draco had brought the muggleborn with him. However, when he appeared at the door to her sitting room, he was alone.
"Good evening mother."
"So you now remember I'm your mother. How dare you address me like this?" She shouted, waving what appeared to be his reply.
Even though his mother had never spoken to him with a raised voice or in this tone, Draco remained calm. "I'm here mother because you want to talk."
Replying in the same raised voice, Narcissa told Draco she didn't want to talk. It was his father who suggested she should. "I'll tell you this up front. No muggle born intent on trapping my son in marriage will cross this threshold. You would understand if you weren't thinking with…."
Suddenly, a glowering, irate Lucius was in the doorway. Raising his voice to a decibel Draco hadn't ever heard, he lit into Narcissa. "YOU STAND THERE SPEAKING THIS FILTH TO YOUR SON?"
Narcissa froze seeming to sink into herself. "Lucius I..."
Draco shifted from foot to foot. This was not something he wanted to see or hear. "Father. Perhaps I should come back when things have settled down."
"YOU'LL REMAIN WHERE YOU ARE. NARCISSA MALFOY WANTS TO FIGHT HER SON. SHE'LL BE FIGHTING ME AS WELL." Lucius took a deep breath. "My apologies Draco. My anger is to the point I'd probably shout at the Minister if he walked through the doors."
Even though it was a serious situation, Draco smiled within himself. Lucius Malfoy had gone all Death Eater. Someone might just get hexed.
/
Returning To His Roots: Chapter 90
Narcissa was cowed but not defeated. "You are speaking to me Lucius. Lower your voice. You wanted me to speak to Draco. I am simply speaking my mind. You know my stance on muggles and muggleborns. It's nothing new. You and I were brought up with the same views. I will not change mine because Draco thinks he's infatuated with some low blood witch.
Lucius huffed, but Draco replied in a calm and level manner.
"Low blood witch? I'm not here to argue or disrespect you mother. I'm here to state facts as I see them. I'm the son of Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy brought up with the same views as my parents. However, my views have changed. It was you who sent me to Switzerland to be educated. Well, I was educated. What did I learn? I learned my blood is neither redder nor better than any other wizard. The only thing that separates me from the masses is our wealth. I am in love with Hermione Granger and intend to marry her. I would like for you to be part of our life, but if you cannot come to terms with who Hermione is, I will not press the issue. She and I will be fine."
Turning to Lucius, Draco addressed his father. "Please don't be at odds with mother on my account. I thank you for being accepting of the witch I have chosen for my wife. Hindsight being twenty twenty, it probably wouldn't be such a bad thing if you sent mother to Switzerland to be educated. Hermione and I will keep you advised of our plans. Goodnight mother. Goodnight father."
Draco had said all he intended to say so he strode to the Apparition area to leave. His witch was probably waiting for her dinner.
/*/
Once Draco left, Narcissa lost some of her bluster knowing her husband would only take so much. However, it didn't stop her from commenting in her normal arrogant, entitled, Pureblood tone.
"Shall we talk like civilized people Lucius? You've accepted muggleborns into your circle and suddenly you're acting like one. Raising your voice will not solve anything. You should be trying to talk your son out of his involvement with that witch instead of encouraging him. I…"
Lucius remained silent for several seconds during which Narcissa began to fidget. She wanted Lucius to come down on her side, but she didn't want to lose everything making him see the truth.
"You've had your say Narcissa as I've had mine. I'm not about to belabor the point in my own home. I suggest you pack up your things and go visit one of those vapid, single-minded witches you call a friend until Draco and Hermione are bonded. After that, I'll decide whether I want you back in the Manor. A word of caution. Your pureblood friends show deference to you while we are together. If they think we've separated, I'm sure one or more will be at the Manor door to console me. You of all people know my lusty mindset. I don't know if I'll turn them away. Think what you will about Draco's choice of a wife, but think it somewhere else. Advise me where you'll be going. I'll have Portkeys set up."
As Lucius turned to walk away, his words sunk in. The thoughts running through Narcissa's head became a kaleidoscope. The divorced Lena Greengrass would love to step into her place as would Thalia Wilkins and Caroline Everly, especially Caroline Everly. She had always shown interest in Lucius. Narcissa Malfoy had no intention of being thrown to the side over a small matter.
"Lucius, love. There's no need to go to extremes. As much as I believe in my Pureblood mores, I do not want to be thrown out of my home over things that can be rectified. Let's have dinner and talk."
Lucius was not ready to be pacified. "Eat dinner by yourself Narcissa. I have nothing more to say. You've made your decision and I've made mine. Leave your information on the desk in my study. There won't be any need for you to come to our bedroom. I'm not interested in any intimate contact. I'll save myself for those who show up at the Manor doors after you've left."
Narcissa was now beside herself. Lucius was serious. He wanted her gone and someone in her place.
"Lucius please. Talk to me. Perhaps I was too quick to make judgments."
Lucius turned back to look at Narcissa. "There is nothing I want to hear from you. Quick judgments? That never bodes well for anyone."
Highly emotional and frightened she was being thrown away, Narcissa replied in soft, trembling voice. "Alright Lucius, alright. I am set in my ways, but just as Draco learned in Switzerland, I can learn from you. Just help me."
Lucius who was striding from the room turned back once again. Narcissa was extending an olive branch which he was willing to accept. "You are my wife, Draco's mother. If you are seriously asking for help, I'm willing to help you. We'll start by agreeing that our grown son is able to make life decisions on his own."
"I agree Lucius, but…"
"There aren't any buts Narcissa." Lucius replied in a growl. "We can have a discussion, but I won't listen to any bullshite. I'm going to have a quick shower before dinner. Come to the table with an open mind or don't come at all. I'll be at the table in thirty minutes."
Narcissa flounced off to her personal area vowing to stay true to her Pureblood views without being chucked out of her own home.
/*/
Draco was in a less than stellar mood as he waited on queue to collect the takeaway order. His parents were going at each other in a way he'd never seen. He was third from the register when his mobile rang.
Lucius Malfoy was calling. Draco sighed. He'd had enough for one night but it was Lucius. He had to answer.
Hello father.
Hello Draco. There is a matter that needs to be settled. If possible, your mother and I would like you to come back to the Manor.
Draco glanced at the takeaway he had in his hand. Hermione was probably waiting for him at the house. He made a decision.
Alright father. I'll be there shortly.
Fine. We'll hold dinner for you. Bring Miss Granger.
Draco didn't know what to say. Bring Miss Granger was not something he expected to hear. He was not about to allow Hermione to walk into a Narcissa Malfoy tirade. Draco said the first thing that came to mind.
I'll be there shortly father, but I believe Hermione has a meeting with Severus. It might be better if I came alone.
Lucius counted to ten. He was trying to get things sorted but his patience was being tried.
We are holding dinner Draco. Bring Miss Granger. We'll expect you within the hour.
Draco grabbed the takeaway. He'd have to find his fiancee. He hoped Hermione wasn't somewhere talking Severus' ear off.
Of course father. Hermione and I will be there shortly.
Draco turned into Apparition and landed softly in the living room. He wouldn't have to hunt down his fiancee. From the loud humming coming from the study, he would venture to guess she was already home. Now all he had to do was convince her to accompany him to Malfoy Manor.
/*/
Hermione came out to meet Draco still humming.
"Hello love." She said, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Give me one of those Malfoy kisses."
Draco smiled as he pulled Hermione close thinking the conversation with Severus must have been a good one.
"I'll kiss you all night long, but right now I need you to put on shoes and a jumper."
Hermione stepped back to look Draco in the face. "Why? Judging by the takeaway sack in your hand we are about to have dinner. Why do I need shoes and a jumper?"
Now came the hard part. Speaking as he went to put the takeaway in the kitchen, Draco steadied himself for Hermione's response. "We have been invited to dinner at the Manor. Therefore, you'll need shoes and a jumper."
Hermione replied with some Granger cheek. "Really? Am I being invited in order to give your mother a chance to curse me? I'll be sure to bring my wand."
Draco who wasn't sure why they had been invited to dinner shrugged. "I'm as much in the dark as you. When I was at the Manor a bit earlier, I wasn't sure I'd get another invitation. Be that as it may, we now have an invitation. Father is expecting us. Let's get going. Bring your wand."
Hermione smiled as she grabbed Draco around the back and left a kiss. "Alright love. I'm willing to hear what Lucius and Narcissa have to say. You are charged with getting me out of there alive. I will not be visiting the drawing room."
Draco nodded unwilling to even reply to Hermione's drawing room comment. "I'm charged with getting both of us out of there alive. Give me your arm."
They were off.
/*/
No matter whether they were invited to the Manor or not, Draco Apparated them to the front doors. They would ring the bell like any other visitor.
Elder answered the door giving a small bow when he saw Draco. "It's Mr. Draco sir and Miss Hermione at the front door."
He obviously remembered Hermione from the time he helped set up house for the repast.
"Mr. Lucius and Mrs. Cissy are in the big study."
Taking Hermione by the hand, Draco led her into the cavernous room which, except for a bare area on the right wall, was filled with books. Even though the room was in Malfoy Manor, Hermione was impressed. She could read for months if the room was located somewhere else.
Lucius stood with his hand extended. "Good evening Draco, Hermione. Thank you for accepting our invitation."
"You're welcome father. Thank you for the invitation."
"Yes. Thank you for the invitation Lucius." Hermione repeated careful not to glance in Narcissa's direction.
Realizing Narcissa had not risen from her chair or even moved, Lucius turned to her with a frown. "Have you forgotten our recent conversation Narcissa?"
Narcissa rose from the chair. "I haven't forgotten Lucius." Turning to Draco and Hermione, she walked over to greet her son with a quick kiss on the cheek and a smile in Hermione's direction. "Welcome to Malfoy Manor Miss Granger. Missy and Binney have put together a lovely baked chicken dinner. Would you care for a wine before dinner?"
Hermione tightened her grip on Draco's hand. Narcissa Malfoy was speaking to her in a reasonable manner. Draco squeezed her back because Narcissa Malfoy was speaking to her in a reasonable manner. Merlin must be twisting in his trousers.
"Thank you Mrs. Malfoy. Baked chicken is a favorite of mine. I'll pass on the wine. Perhaps I'll have a small one with dinner."
Narcissa surprised everyone yet again. "Please, call me Narcissa."
Hermione gazed directly at Narcissa. "Alright Narcissa. Please call me Hermione."
"Hermione it is. Dinner is ready. Let's make our way to the dining room."
/*/
Initially, dinner conversation was sparse with everyone except Lucius keeping their eyes on their plate until he spoke.
"I understand things are going well at OTS Draco. It was quite a change in careers. Does Hermione know you were a prominent prosecutor in Switzerland?"
Hermione nodded. She did know all about Draco's time in Switzerland, but Lucius wasn't addressing her.
Glancing from Hermione to his father, Draco answered in the affirmative. "Yes father. Hermione knows all about Switzerland. In fact, she and I have discussed opening a law firm of our own down the line. Malfoy & Malfoy has a lovely ring to it."
Hermione didn't dare look at her fiance who was lying through his teeth. They hadn't ever discussed opening a law firm. Malfoy & Malfoy indeed.
Lucius actually smiled. Hermione wasn't the only one who knew Draco was stretching the truth. If anything, Hermione would be dragging Draco into telecommunications.
"You're right Draco. Malfoy & Malfoy does have a lovely ring. Doesn't it Narcissa?"
Narcissa glanced at each of them in turn with a smile on her face. Not a warm smile, but a smile nonetheless. "That's surprising. I would think with all this talk about telecommunications and Severus' return their eyes would be on that field, but those are only my thoughts."
Lucius, Draco and Hermione were all surprised. Narcissa Malfoy wasn't the type of witch who commented on business. It was at this point that Draco, Hermione and Lucius realized Narcissa knew a lot more about her son's relationship than she had previously let on.
A surprised Lucius replied that it was a distinct possibility then changed the subject. "Although it is customary for the mother of the groom to be involved with her son's wedding plans, your mother is thinking about taking an extended vacation which means she won't be available to take part….."
Narcissa stiffened but replied in a level voice staring directly at Lucius. "Your father is getting a bit ahead of things. While I might have mentioned a trip, I do have any firm plans to leave the Manor. Although I haven't been invited, it would be my pleasure to assist with any wedding plans."
What? Did those words just come out of Narcissa Malfoy's mouth?
It was a full five seconds before either Hermione or Draco could reply. Draco deferred to Hermione.
"Thank you Narcissa. Although Draco and I haven't started planning, it would be our pleasure to have you assist."
Lucius was smiling inside. Narcissa Malfoy had been outdone. The mother of the groom would now have to assist, or at least pretend to assist in wedding arrangements. The smile from inside appeared on his face. "Well that's settled. Perhaps Narcissa will now agree to get one of Severus' newly minted mobile devices so she, Hermione and Draco can keep in touch. Anybody for dessert?"
Although Hermione's head was spinning over the fact one of her most fierce detractors had seemingly accepted her into the family, she saw another sale.
"If you would feel comfortable with my help, I'd be glad to put together a mobile package for you including instructions most of which are self explanatory. Draco knows as much as I. I can give the parcel to him and he can go over it all with you."
Narcissa hesitated. She felt she was getting in over her head, but responded positively. "That would be lovely Hermione. I look forward to learning something new. Thank you for offering."
If Hermione's head had been spinning, Draco was doubly spinning. In the matter of a few hours, his mother had done a one hundred eighty degree turnaround. On the surface, everything appeared fine, but he wasn't convinced yet. He'd just have to wait and see. He was certain of one thing. He wouldn't allow anyone to disrespect Hermione. No matter who it was.
/*/
Severus had just finished a discussion with Wil, Thom and Mick. The Swiss lads had picked up quickly. Mick was a very thorough teacher. Mick was on his way to Theo's while Wil and Thom were headed to the hotel to change and meet up with Mick later. As far as he was concerned, the day had gone well. Hermione had a new assistant who appeared to be a very smart choice. Wil and Thom knew as much as most of his staff and he'd had a long winded message from Lucius about Narcissa losing her mind.
Severus smiled. The vitriol was bound to come out. The last thing Narcissa Malfoy would take lightly was her only son marrying a mudblood. He still had a smile on his face when Jean appeared at the door.
"Good evening Severus. That smile speaks volumes. Things must be going well at WCS."
The smile immediately disappeared.
"A small smile in the privacy of my office means nothing. However, it was a fairly decent day. How are things at DMTS? We have hired an exceedingly sharp witch to assist Miss Granger. Mr. Baker and Mr. Clarke have picked up quickly. Mick will finish up with them on his own which means I will be free to visit the Ministry to see how my better half is running her department."
Jean sat down and handed Severus a few sheets of paper. "Everything is on point at DMTS. In fact, I'll soon have resumes for you to look over. I have an idea which I will keep to myself for now, but I will be setting applicants in front of you as soon as Tuesday. It seems there are a fair few interested in joining the Severus Snape bandwagon. One more thing. I've opened an additional account at Gringotts. It will be dedicated to hiring and salaries."
Severus nodded as he glanced at the papers then set them aside. "A dedicated account is a good move. Thank you. As far as Severus Snape having a bandwagon, it wouldn't be a bandwagon without you and great many others. The wiring is coming along nicely. Wil and Thom have agreed to be ambassadors in their portion of the world. I don't think we'll even need to send any of our people unless there is an emergency. As product is ordered, we will increase staff in that area. With that in mind, keep an eye out for applicants who might not fit in at DMTS but could fit in here."
"Excellent. I will do that." Jean replied nodding her head enthusiastically.
"I think that's all for now. Let's go home and have some dinner. I'm in the mood for beef with rice and gravy. I'm hoping my significant other will make it so."
Jean laughed. "I think she is able to do that. One last thing Severus. I know we are busy but how would you like to take a weekend trip to Oregon. We could leave tomorrow evening and return on Sunday afternoon. Wouldn't it be nice to enjoy that spectacular view once again?"
Severus had been ready to stand so they could be on their way, but Jean's question gave him pause. Leaning back in the chair he stared at her for several seconds.
Jean wasn't one to fidget, but Severus' stare made her want to.
Finally, Severus replied. "That's not a bad idea. Let's see what tomorrow brings. I don't want to leave Wil and Thom hanging since they came here at my request. Well, Draco's request. Pack us an overnight bag just in case. I really would like to enjoy that spectacular view. For now, let's get to the house. I'm hungry and hungry."
Jean replied with a lowered voice and a wide smile. "Are you giving voice to a bit of sexual innuendo? If so, I like it."
Severus smiled as he got out of the chair. "Take it as you will. For now, let's get to the house."
"Yes Messiah." Jean replied in a very soft voice as she followed her wizard to the floo.
/*/
Theo came through from his bedroom heading to Declan's room. He wanted to check on his son. There really wasn't any need because Reg was always on top of things. However, he was the father. It was his duty to double check whenever he liked.
The door was slightly ajar so Theo knocked.
"I'm just finishing up Reg. I'm combing my hair."
Theo stepped into the room. "It's not Reg lad, it's me."
"Father! Am I late? Is Anna here?"
Theo exhaled. His son was already in a state. "Slow down son. You are not late and Anna is not here yet. I am just checking to see if you are ready to greet our guest."
"I'll be ready as soon as I finish combing my hair. Reg has already checked on me. Both he and I are wearing ties tonight. We want to be impressive."
"Theo smiled at his outspoken son. You and Reg are impressive enough without ties, But I appreciate the effort. When you've finished combing your hair, I'd like you to sit in the living room."
"Reg too?"
"Yes Declan, Reg too." Theo called over his shoulder.
Declan finished combing his hair then walked down the hall to Reg's quarters and knocked on the door. "It's Declan. Father asked us to sit in the living room until Anna arrives. You don't have to, but I do."
Stepping into the hall, Reg gave Declan a few cautions which the young wizard took in stride.
"Thank you for reminding me Reg, but you have already taught me cautions. I'll be on my best behavior."
"Fantastic. Let's get to the living room before Theo has to come looking for us."
"Right." Declan replied as he followed Reg down the hall.
/*/
Theo, who was already sitting in the living room looked at Declan and his man and was proud. There was no one better than Reggie Briggs. Because Reg was technically off duty, Theo offered him a drink which was refused.
Theo shrugged but added. "Tonight I'm not your employer. We are here as a family and you are off duty. Don't feel embarrassed about hoisting one with me. I'd do the same if it was Mick or Conor."
Reg smiled at Theo and Declan in return. "Well, as one of the family, I accept your offer of a drink. I'll have a whiskey."
Theo poured the drink then poured a juice for Declan. "I propose a toast. To family."
"To family," repeated Reg.
"To our family," parroted Declan.
The three wizards drank in silence until the doorbell rang. A minute later, Missy came through announcing their guest. "Miss Anna here Mr. Theo."
All three wizards stood and greeted Anna who returned their greeting with a smile.
"Good evening. I am in the presence of three extremely handsome wizards. A witch couldn't ask for more."
Theo was grinning like a sixteen year old who had finally worked up the courage to talk to a pretty witch. Reaching out, he pulled Anna to him and kissed her cheek.
"Welcome to our home. Would you like a wine before dinner?"
"I'd love a white wine. So, what were you talking about before I interrupted?"
Declan spoke up. "You're not interrupting Anna. We were waiting for you to come. You're our guest."
"Thank you for that declaration young Mr. Nott."
Theo handed Anna her wine before sitting down beside her. "Dinner is ready. After you have your wine, we'll eat."
"I don't want to hold up dinner. If you don't mind, I'll take my wine to the table."
Theo held out his arm to Anna. "Fair enough. Come on wizards. It's time for dinner."
/*/
Hermione and Draco were still speechless when they landed at the house. Hermione removed her jumper, laid her wand on the dresser and went straight to the bathroom. Draco removed his jumper, placed his wand on the table then sat down on the couch staring straight ahead.
"You alright Malfoy?"
"I'm alright Granger. How about yourself?"
"Thought you'd never ask." She joked. "You're a Malfoy. Tell me what exactly happened this evening. Tell me while you're heating up the takeaway because I don't think I tasted any bit of food I put in my mouth at Malfoy Manor. When your mother began speaking to me in a sane, level manner, I thought it was a trap to take me off my guard. For a second, I thought Bellatrix was going to jump out from behind a curtain."
Draco frowned at the mention of his lunatic aunt but said nothing as he headed to the kitchen to heat up the takeaway.
"So…."
"So what Hermione. If you're asking me to explain my parents behavior this evening, I can't. All I know is something dire must have transpired between them after I left because earlier I thought my father was going to hex my mother. They were both in the foulest moods I've even seen. Fast forward a few hours and it's suddenly nothing but honey up there. I'm stumped."
"If you're stumped, I'm doubly stumped. If I have it right, Narcissa Malfoy is now down to help me with wedding planning." Hermione laughed. "First I'll have to get a plan."
Draco chuckled as he called Hermione. "Come eat. It's your favorite. Food to be eaten not at Malfoy Manor."
Leaving a quick kiss on Draco's shoulder, Hermione sat down to eat. "Food is so good when I don't have three Malfoys staring down my throat."
Draco continued chewing until his mouth was clear. "Keep it up Granger and one of those Malfoys is going to rip the clothes off you and spank that lovely butt."
Giggling, Hermione promptly replied. "Promises, promises. I'll clear away if you promise to carry me to the bedroom. I'm too tired to walk."
Draco burst out in laughter. "If you're too tired to walk, then you're obviously too tired to give me some of that Granger loving. Where's the benefit for me?"
Hermione stood and walked over to Draco and began rubbing his dick. Two rubs and he grabbed her in his arms whispering she shouldn't stop. Abruptly pulling away her hand, Hermione whispered back that he should rub his own dick because she was too tired.
Draco whined out his reply. "Alright, alright. I'll carry you."
Hermione wasn't having it. "Too late wanker. By the way. If you have plans with Wil and Thom tomorrow night, I'll just busy myself with wedding catalogs. I want to be ready when your mother calls me to chat. Shall I deliver the mobile to her, or will you?"
Draco sighed knowing this night would go down in the Malfoy-Granger relationship as the weirdest night ever. As he strode to the bedroom, Draco called out a truce. He didn't want to hear any more about Lucius, Narcissa or Malfoy Manor.
He was too tired to rub his own dick.