Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 86

By the time Emiliano and Ilaria were stepping out of the floo at Malfoy Estate, Grace Leyton had returned Hermione's text. She had an opening on Wednesday, 11/11 at 10:00 am. Hermione took ten seconds to accept the appointment before greeting the mum and the Nonno.

/*/

Emiliano and Ilaria hadn't stepped foot all the way into the house before the lilting voice of young Scorpius Malfoy rang out. "Mum, mum. I think I hear Nonna and Nonno. Hi Nonno and Nonna. I'm studying my letters and numbers. Can I come downstairs?"

They also heard Crissy fussing at Scorp. "Stop that shouting. You know Mrs Hermione and Mr. Emilio don't like it."

"Sorry Crissy, but Nonna and Nonno are here. I want to go downstairs."

Hermione stepped into the crisis. "Thank you Crissy. Scorp may come downstairs. He's overly excited. Please hop him down."

"Yes Mrs. I'll be hopping him down."

Hermione sighed as she greeted Ilaria and Emiliano knowing a good many things would get on her fragile nerves before the pregnancy was over. Nonna Ilaria immediately knew what needed to be done. After greeting Scorp, she went to the kitchen.

Remembering that Emiliano wanted a tea to calm his nerves, Ilaria decided to kill two birds with one stone. "Have a seat Hermione. I'll have a cup of tea in your hands before you can say seven more months."

A confused Scorp laughed because his mum and Nonno were laughing but was unsure why.

"You'll spoil me mum, but I happily accept. There are raspberry muffins in the tin as well. Might as well make it a party."

Scorp glanced at his mum. He was now doubly confused because his mum had called his Nonna mum and because he didn't see a party. However, with a raspberry muffin halfway to his mouth, Scorp just sat back to wait for the next confusing thing.

/

A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 87

With her nerves back on center, Hermione sat across from Ilaria and Emiliano while Scorp sat between them to discuss their itinerary for the day.

Emiliano explained some of it. "Our plan is to first get the floos set up. Ilaria and I were thinking to get floo connections from Pavia to the new home, from the new home to Malfoy Estate and from Pavia directly to London Proper with the latter floo subject to being disconnected at a later date. If it's alright with you and Emilio, we'll work on a floo from 2 Tudor to 4 Tudor at a later date."

Reaching over to touch Emiliano on the hand, Ilaria added a few things. "While the London Proper floo might be disconnected at a later date, I think Em and I need more of a discussion because I might want to go shopping directly from Pavia. Even if we move house to Wiltshire permanently, there are things I can purchase to update Pavia on the off chance Celia and Ron want to move into the house."

Scorp chimed in. "I know Celia and Ron. Celia is my auntie and Ron is my uncle. Celia told me.

Everyone smiled at the verbose, little wizard nodding their agreement.

Hermione turned her smile on mum and Nonno. "You live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world mum. Why would you want to shop in London?"

"Just for something a little different. Again, Em and I haven't discussed it at length. More than likely the floo will be disconnected at some point. We'll see."

Emiliano winked at Hermione knowing if Ilaria wanted a direct floo to London Proper, she would have it. "Speaking of witches who want to go shopping, Ilaria wants to visit Diagon Alley and Charing Cross Road in search of items for the Wiltshire home. If I might offer a suggestion, not knowing how long it will take to apply for two floos, why don't you ladies go shopping while I'm at the Ministry and we can meet somewhere in Diagon Alley. I mean if you are feeling up to it Hermione."

Hermione didn't really feel up to it but she didn't want to let Emiliano down. "Sounds good. I know all the best shops. How does some time in Diagon Alley sound Scorp?"

"Okay mum, okay. Scorp wants to go to Diagon Alley. We can show Nonna and Nonno where Emilio and Uncle Matt live. It's The Luxe."

Hermione didn't reply to Scorp knowing if she did, they would get into a never ending conversation about The Luxe.

Ilaria was a bit annoyed with her husband for putting Hermione in a position where she felt she had to say yes. "It's not a problem if you'd rather pass on walking around Diagon Alley Hermione. I can wait here with you until Emiliano gets back from the Ministry and we'll go together. And if you'll allow, we can take Scorp with us."

Hermione pooh poohed Ilaria's words. "I'm fine mum and Scorp would love an excursion. I think you, me and Scorp should go to Diagon Alley while Emiliano is at the Ministry and he can meet us after. In fact, off the top of my head I know two lovely stores you might like."

Scorp was getting excited. He was going to Diagon Alley and he would show Nonno and Nonna where Emilio lived. Today he was going to be a very big boy.

Emiliano stood up. "I think I'll get a move on ladies and Scorp. The longer I wait the longer I'll have to wait. I just thought of something. After I get authorization for the floos, I'll have to test them. Perhaps I'll let you two do some shopping and I'll wait at Tudor Lane."

Ilaria wasn't happy. "Tudor Lane is only a short portkey away. You can test them after we go shopping. If we stay for dinner, Emilio can assist you. Anyway, you'll need to see him to hand over the application. Let's just go with what is planned. Hermione, Scorp and I will go shopping and you'll meet us by Diagon Place."

Hermione didn't want there to be a confrontation between Ilaria and Emiliano so she stepped in. Please mum. We are two strong witches. We can handle a few packets if Emiliano needs to…."

Ilaria wasn't having any of it. "No Hermione. He'll meet us at Diagon Place and be glad to do it. He can text Emilio, explain the situation then request his assistance with the floos. That's what a father and son should do. In fact, send Emilio a text right now."

Emiliano wanted to growl at his wife but not in front of Scorp and Hermione. He excused himself to the den. "I'll text Emilio. If he is too busy, we'll set up floos another day."

All the tension was getting to Scorp who began pulling on Hermione's sleeve. "Mum, mum. I need to use the bathroom. Call Crissy. I want to study my numbers. Please mum."

Hermione hugged Scorp to her. "Calm down little wizard. Everything is okay."

Scorp spoke in a very low voice. "No mum, no. Nonna is talking mean to Nonno. I want Crissy."

"Crissy please."

Pop. "Yes Mrs. Hermione. I'm here."

"Please take Scorp upstairs. Let him use the bathroom then set him up with his numbers. I'll be up in a few minutes to see about him."

"Yes Mrs. Come on Scorp. You going to the bathroom then your numbers."

Scorp grabbed Crissy's hand and walked quietly away.

Ilaria was on the verge of tears for having upset Scorp. "I'm sorry Hermione. I'm mortified to have used that tone in front of Scorp. What will he think of me?"

Even though Hermione would rather Ilaria not have spoken in the tone she had, Scorp loved her. He would get over it. "Now now mum. All relationships have their little bumps. I don't know about Emiliano, but Scorp will be fine."

Ilaria let out a soft giggle. "It's been years since I've really had to growl at Em. He did well refraining from growling back, but his magenta hue makes me think this isn't the end of it.

/*/

A calm, seemingly relaxed Emiliano entered the living room. "I took a few minutes to mull things over. Neither the floo set up nor the shopping has to be done today. Additionally, I didn't text Emilio. I remembered him mentioning how busy it would be at MCC today. Ilaria and I will wait for a more opportune time to conduct our business."

"Em….."

Ilaria and Emiliano were standing face to face. Hermione felt this was a good time to excuse herself. "I'm going to see how Scorp is getting on with his numbers. I'll be back."

Neither Ilaria nor Emiliano answered. On the way up the stairs, Hermione heard Ilaria speak softly to her wizard. "Let's go talk in the study. I've upset Hermione's household enough."

Emiliano reluctantly followed Ilaria into the study where she closed the door behind them. After apologizing, Ilaria threw her arms around Emiliano. "I love you Em. I want us to go on as planned. Please. We don't have to bother Hermione. Let me accompany you to the Ministry and from there we can find our own way around Diagon Alley. It can't be that hard. If we find ourselves turned around, we can apparate back here. Please Em. I don't want you to waste your day."

Taking a deep breath, Emiliano pulled Ilaria to him. "Okay sweet. We can do that. We can explain it all to Hermione then be on our way. I will tell you this Ilaria. We argue. Sometimes I speak roughly. However, I haven't ever done it in front of our family. If you ever do it again, you won't like the measures I take. Give me a kiss.

Ilaria gladly kissed her husband exceptionally glad he was back to himself.

"Now let's go see if Hermione is back downstairs. I'd still like to stay until Emilio gets home even if we don't stay for dinner."

"Okay Em, okay."

/*/

Hermione came back downstairs to find Emiliano and Ilaria smiling and holding a conversation. When she sat down, they both apologized for upsetting Scorp. Hermione waved their apologies away telling them Scorp was okay. Emiliano informed Hermione that he and Ilaria were going to The Ministry to get floo authorizations then make a few stops in Diagon Alley. Hermione half halfheartedly suggested she and Scorp accompany them, but they both politely declined. Hermione didn't push.

Because Ilaria wasn't keen on apparating to a place she'd never been before, they borrowed two short trip portkeys from Draco's leftover stores. Hermione waved goodbye as Emiliano and Ilaria stepped outside to engage the portkey.

While Hermione sat there, she remembered she and Emilio wanted a visit to the obstetrician, so she called Obstetrics Healer Carol Franks to make an appointment. The earliest Healer Franks could see her was Thursday 11/19/09 at 10:30 which Hermione accepted. With a firm appointment in hand, she decided to text Emilio with details and a bit about what had gone on with his parents.

Hermione was sitting with her feet up enjoying the peace and quiet when the lovely, lilting voice of Mrs. Potter wafted through the room.

"Hello! Hello! Is anyone about?"

Hermione chuckled over Hannah's nonsense as her Best Witch could see her sitting on the couch. "What am I, chopped liver?" Hermione asked.

"Oh, Mrs. Hermione. I didn't see you sitting there. My mistake. How are you love?"

Laughing, Hermione stood to hug her big bellied friend. "Oh my Mrs. Potter. Your belly is so big. Is there room enough at Casa Potter for your big belly and your husband's big head? Have a seat. Do you want some water or some water?"

Hannah grinned at Hermione. "I'll have some apple juice. As for your spurious remark about my husband's large dome, I resent your implication. However, if you'd like to speak about something huge, we can speak about his…."

Hermione nearly spit out her juice before shouting at her witch. "Hannah!"

"What Mrs Hermione? The truth will set you free."

"Never you mind Hannah. I don't ever want to be that free. Forget big things. On to better. Do you care to share the sex of your coming child with me?"

"Nope. You might tell Harry."

"As if. I've made my own obstetrics appointment. I'll know what's what on the Nineteenth."

"Speaking of babies on the way, have you told mum and the in-laws?"

Suddenly aware she had left Hannah out of the visit to Idelle, Hermione felt a bit awkward. "All the parents are aware. Emilio and I spoke to them before we went to see the dressmaker."

A look of surprise covered Hannah's face. "You visited the dressmaker without me? I thought I was your favorite sister witch. I'm crushed. Okay, enough dramatics. How did it go? Will Miss Scalia be able to give you what you want?"

Hermione smiled at her best witch. "I'm sorry I was so excited about spilling the pregnancy news, I left you out. The appointment went well and I will have the dress of my dreams. And, as you might realize, our wedding date has to be changed. The new date is January Tenth at 2:00 pm, so adjust your calendar. Emilio and I won't know the venue until we speak to Grace. I have an appointment for Wednesday. I'll let you know when I know."

"Yah sure. Unless you forget about me." Hannah muttered in a faux snit.

Both witches smiled at each other before beginning a conversation about Scorp, big bellies and thick ankles. Hannah finally got up to leave calling back over her shoulder.

"My regards to all. I'll stop in to greet Louis before I leave. Love you Mrs. Hermione."

"Love you more Mrs. Potter."

/*/

Seth and Sal had taken a few minutes for themselves after contacting Theo and Andrew before sitting down to call the losing contractors and developers thanking them for their applications and their time. The stage was now set. Depending on the schedules of Devlin & Nott, SSE London could begin as early as this week.

"I'm chuffed Sal. We haven't built anything from the ground up for years."

Toasting Seth by holding a muffin in the air, Sal concurred. "We are the shite. After this, I don't think we'll be building anything else anytime soon. After getting things settled with Devlin & Nott, I think one of us should go do a spot check on our other satellites."

Seth gave Sal a roll of the eyes. "Okay. You go because I have no intention of leaving London at this particular point in time."

"You don't get to dictate whether I come or go." Sal snapped.

"You're the one who made the suggestion arsehole. Personally, I don't think either one of us has to check on anything. Our satellites are in great shape. Send an Owl. Make a call. Send a text. Do what you feel is necessary, but we are keeping our arses right here in London for the next few months."

Sal sighed. Seth was correct. Their satellites were in fine shape staffed with only the finest people. Even if there was a problem, every branch manager knew how to contact either of them.

"Alright. Neither of us will go anywhere. Happy now?"

Seth was sporting a wide grin. "Why yes. Yes I am. It's coming up on 12:15. I'm going to have a pee and a face wash. I want to present a clean, fresh face to our new team. I suggest you go try to wash off some that ugly. We don't want to frighten Theo and Andrew away before they even start."

"Hahaha. Very funny. You're one to talk about ugly….."

Before Sal could finish his thought, Matt stuck his head in the door. "I stopped in for a check and find the partners in a battle of words. My suggestion is for you both come correct because both members of your new team are in the building. We wouldn't want either wizard to think they've just signed on to work with two idiots. Get yourselves together mates. I'll send Theo and Andrew down in five minutes. Good luck."

"Damn. What got up Matt's nose? Be right back."

"My brother is known to be a bit rude from time to time. Think nothing of it."

Five minutes later, Theo Nott, Jr. and Andrew Devlin stepped into the room.

/*/

After all the chit chat, signing of papers, and hearty handshakes, it was established Devlin & Nott would be the partners in charge of building and renovating the company which would become SSE London.

From there, the owners and their team Heads went over plans until 2:30 when they were summoned to Matt's conference room where Matt, Gas, Emilio, the FF and several Fourth Levels were there to celebrate the beginning of the huge project. Theo was his normal outspoken self.

Expanding his arms wide, Theo had a few words to say. "Well thank you for the welcome. Andrew and I intend to build an awesome building. If Sal and Seth stay out of our way, SSE London will be built in under a year, especially if I can count on loads of free food."

Matt and Emilio shook their heads. The truth of it was Theo Nott could put his money where his mouth was. They had no doubt SSE London would be done and functioning by May or June of the following year.

Andrew nodded in Theo's direction before adding a few thoughts of his own. "It was my lucky day when Mr. Nott agreed he and I could work together as a team. Even luckier for me was to find support in the largest investment company in magical Britain. So, thank you for your trust. We will get this done."

With a cup in one hand and a large chicken salad sandwich in the other, a petulant sounding Seth reminded Theo and Andrew that he and Sal were the impetus behind it all and he should be thanking them.

Everyone laughed out loud when Theo commented that his favor lay with the wizards who paid the bills and offered the food.

Sal nudged Seth. "I think we judged too soon. Our chickens have come home to roost."

After another round of laughter and several toasts, the teams separated to go their separate ways. Theo, Andrew, Seth and Sal back to the conference room and Emilio, Matt, Gas and the others back to work.

/*/

The day had been so busy Emilio hadn't had time to respond to Hermione's text. At 3:15, he made time.

{Sender} Emilio

{Recipient} Hermione

I'm a bit perturbed my father and mother upset Scorp. So unlike them. Neither would intentionally upset our boy. I'll get it sorted tonight. Just finished meeting with Devlin & Nott. IMO, Sal and Seth have chosen the right team. Thank you as well for the healer update. Can't wait. Need to get back to work. See you this evening. Hugs to Scorp.

Love you madly

After the text was sent, Emilio made a quick trip to the Men's then back to his desk to clear up the outstanding paperwork, think about the obstetrician visit and wonder what was going on with his mother and father.

/*/

Ilaria and Emiliano arrived back to Malfoy Estate ten minutes before Emilio landed from work. Scorp, who was watching some telly called out to Emilio as he had to his Nonno and Nonna.

"I heard something. I think it's Emilio."

"Hello young wizard. It is indeed Emilio Lozier come home for dinner and a visit." He remarked as he headed for Hermione to kiss her cheek then greet his parents.

Scorp let out a laugh and gave Emilio a reply. "You always come home for dinner and a visit to see me and mum and today to see Nonno and Nonna. Can I come out there?"

Glancing quickly at Hermione to get her assurances, Emilio told Scorp to come on out.

Scorp came bounding out of the telly room. "It's me. It's Scorp. Emilio is home. I think it's dinner time."

Grabbing his someday son up in a hug, Emilio gave a father answer. "I'm home little man, but we always defer to mum and Nonna. It is dinner time when they tell us it's dinner time. Agree?"

A forlorn looking Scorp nodded. "Okay Emilio, okay. It's dinner time when mum and Nonna say so. Nonno got new floos."

Emiliano was a bit embarrassed as he wanted to explain it all to Emilio, but what was done was done. "Since Scorp has given it all away, I must admit that your mother and I went to the Ministry today to apply for two floos in which we were successful. We now have floos directly from Pavia to Two Tudor Lane and from Two Tudor to Malfoy Estate. We also left an application for Pavia to London Proper which we will follow up on a later date. We are set."

Emilio was pleased. "Well done father. Did you find anything interesting in Diagon Alley?"

Emiliano was pleased as well. "Your mother found many things which were delivered to our new home. It was a bit hairy with the items we purchased in muggle London, but we managed. I think you mother will be living in her new home by the end of the week. Be prepared to have a dinner guest every night of the week."

Ilaria nudged Emiliano. "Stop it Em. You know I won't be at Hermione's door every night of the week. There is such a thing called decorum."

Emilio smiled knowing his mum would be at their door as much as possible. "I see everyone has had a very productive day. I'm chuffed. Let me stop away for a moment then we can have dinner."

Scorp watched Emilio walk away and mumbled softly. "I don't know why Emilio didn't take me. I'm his boy. I have to get washed up too."

Quick on the uptake, Emilio did a one hundred eighty degree turn. "Forgive me little wizard. I thought the someday grandfather had already seen to things. Let's go get this done because I'm very hungry."

Scorp smiled as he reached out for Emilio. "Nonno helps Nonna. You help me."

"Emilio smiled at Emiliano. "Fair enough little wizard, fair enough."

/*/

Hermione was feeling extra tired, but she smiled through dinner listening to Scorp, Emilio and Emiliano chat about things. She and Ilaria didn't add much to the conversation. They just basked in the light of their wizards.

Near the end of the meal Emiliano asked Emilio for a few minutes of his time after dinner.

Emilio didn't hesitate but glanced at Hermione. "Of course father. If Hermione permits, we can have a conversation in the study."

"Fine with me love. Go have your conversation while Ilaria and I clear up. Scorp, go have a seat on the couch. Nonna and I will be there in a minute."

Scorp went to sit on the couch as ordered but had a few mumblings. "I'm a boy. I need to to have a conversation too."

No matter how she tried to hide it, Hermione, who was on her last nerve admonished Scorp. "You'll sit on the couch as I asked and be glad to do it."

Ilaria knew she didn't have the right to override the mum added her thoughts anyway. "Do what mummy says Scorp. You know Emilio wouldn't like you talking back."

Scorp was surprised his Nonna mentioned Emilio and started to cry. "My Nonna doesn't like me anymore. I always do what mum says. Emilio…."

Emilio and Emiliano had just returned from the study. "What's this Scorp? Are you arguing with your Nonna?" Reaching out for Scorp's hand, Emilio told the upset little wizard to come with him.

Scorp cried harder but took Emilio's hand. The someday father and son needed a chat.

Grabbing Emiliano by the arm, Ilaria whispered they should be getting home. Emiliano concurred. Standing and lifting Ilaria, Emiliano walked over to hug Hermione and say goodbye. Ilaria did the same.

"Tell Emilio and Scorp we said goodnight and we'll catch up with them soon."

Knowing Emiliano and Ilaria didn't want to stay around to see Scorp scolded, Hermione hugged them back assuring them she would tell Scorp and Emilio goodnight. By the time Emilio and Scorp returned to the living room, Emiliano and Ilaria had been gone for ten minutes. Scorp looked around asking for his someday grandparents.

"Nonna and Nonno had to get back home. They told me to give you a hug. We'll be seeing them soon."

Emilio, who wasn't sure his parents leaving before he and Scorp returned was a good thing glanced at Hermione trying to read the room. Hermione smiled at both her wizards. Emilio had only been doing his fatherly duty. Emilio was relieved. With the talk out of the way, the little family spent some time enjoying a happy conversation.

/*/

James returned to Milan in the best of moods. His time in London had been amazing. As he sat on the couch in his own living room reliving the weekend, there was a wide smile on his face. Not only had he had an enjoyable time, he had met a potential person of interest. As he sat there, memory upon memory passed through his head. The good and the bad. No matter what happened from here on out, James was sure the correct path of his life had been set. It seemed he was destined to be in the same orbit as Emilio Lozier his most favored mentor. With a quick jump up from the couch, James pulled out his wand to begin getting himself in order knowing he was only a few weeks away from a brand new life.

/*/

Sal, Seth, Theo and Andrew were sitting in the Luxe bar chuffed at the way the day had gone. SSE London was a thing. The plans had been sanctioned, and as early as Thursday the project would begin. Theo had estimated SSE might be built withing six months. As the four sat there, Andrew was quick to agree.

Andrew was expansive. "I believe you lads should start getting your staff in order because we'll have a finished building and you'll be holding you arses."

Sal lifted his glass. "Tell that to Lozier. He's the arse who thought we wouldn't need…."

Seth cut across his partner. "Pay no attention to wizard Maida. We have everything under control. You two lads go do what needs to be done and we'll have staff ready to go when you're finished."

"Theo raised his glass as well. "Sounds good to me. I've heard stories, so I'm hoping you have people other than Hermione and Mrs. Maida in mind."

Sal turned beet red but took Theo's comments in stride. "I just love it when a mate takes the Mickey. We'll be fine."

The four businessmen each raised his glass having no doubt everything would be fine.

/*/

After Hermione and Emilio had put Scorp to bed, it was their time.

Emilio pulled Hermione closer and whispered in her ear. "It's time to discuss."

As she snuggled against Emilio's arm, Hermione assured him it was. "Let's start off with our visit to the Obstetrics Healer next Thursday. Please make yourself available."

Hermione's words rile Emilio bit, but he remained calm. "Make myself available? If the magical world was ending, I would still make myself available. This is about our child love. How could I not? That's settled. Will you need me to accompany you to see Grace on Wednesday?"

"No love. It's simple. Grace can accommodate us or she can't. I'll be fine on my own. I'm hoping she can, however, we'll be ready if she can't. I've researched a few other sources, so I'm sure whether it's Grace or another planner we'll be fine. Onto another subject. Gas and Seana have started setting up their new home. I'm thinking we should be doing the same. If you don't have a problem with it, I'm going to ask Seana, Mila and Hannah to assist me. It will be the perfect time for us witches to discuss what we want to accomplish with Jasmine and Financially Wright. What do you think?"

Spreading his arms wide, Emilio readily agreed with his witch. "Although it seems you have everything under control and I'll only be consulted in case of trouble, I agree with it all. Is everything settled? May I now have some time with my witch?"

Hermione grinned at Emilio. "For sure, everything is settled until it isn't Mr. Lozier. You may now have some time with your witch and she with you."