Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 89
Even though Embers, Crissy and Dusty had been back for hours, Scorp had information he needed to share with Emilio. His helpers had left him and mum alone. Crissy had told him that Draco had said they should never leave us alone. Scorp felt Emilio would feel the same. Scorp wasn't interested in the telly. He was listening for his someday father to get home. Several minutes later, he was rewarded by footsteps in the hall.
"Hello. Who is it? Mum I think Emilio is here."
Emilio headed straight for Hermione where he left two long kisses on her lips. "Hello Mrs. Hermione. I've missed you. Sorry I'm a bit late, but Matt wanted to talk. Thank you for the text and the heads up. I'm sure Scorp is bursting with information to share."
"I'm sure he is. Please take him to wash his face and hands. Dinner will be on the table in fifteen minutes."
"Alright love. I can do that. Come say hello to me big man. Mum wants us to get washed up."
"Hi Emilio, hi. Me and mum were…."
Emilio cut across the little wizard. "Let's save what you and mum were for after dinner."
Scorp so wanted to share his information but he also had to listen to his mum and his Emilio. Maybe he would share after dinner.
/
A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 90
/*/
Scorp was all keyed up after dinner. He had news to share with his someday father but things weren't going in that direction. His mum and Emilio were discussing something about business. Scorp didn't know anyone named Caitlin, Mila or Jasmine so he couldn't interject a point. He was a bit concerned because it seemed the conversation was making Emilio unhappy. His mum noticed as well and changed the subject.
"I think this conversation is something we can revisit later. Right now, Scorp wants to share some of his day with you. Right love?"
"Yes mum. I want to share some of my day with Emilio. Uncle Harry came today. He visited with me, mum and Louis. He wanted to visit with you too but you were at work. Embers, Crissy and Dusty left me and mum alone but I wasn't afraid. Draco said Embers, Crissy and Dusty should never leave us alone, but Draco can't come back so mum tells them what to do. Mum runs the house now, but when you marry, you'll be in charge. Right mum?"
Emilio's brow wrinkled automatically at the mention of Harry's and Draco's names. There was no way he'd willingly entertain a solo conversation with Harry Potter and no way he would discuss Draco Malfoy.
Hermione noticed Emilio's frown and let out a soft sigh. Good thing she had sent Emilio a text informing him of Harry's visit and the orders she had given the elves. "Yes Scorp. When Emilio and I marry, we'll both be in charge so there's no need to worry yourself about anything. You forgot to tell Emilio about our trip to Diagon Alley."
Giving a little wiggle, Scorp began his saga of the visit to Diagon Alley to get a strawberry ice cream cone which he managed to stretch out to a six minute explanation and only ended when Emilio intervened.
"You've had a full and interesting day little wizard. However, I believe it's time for you to get ready for bed."
Scorp gave Hermione a quick glance to see if she thought differently. She didn't.
"Emilio is correct. It's time for you to head upstairs. Do you want to walk up with Emilio or have Crissy come down to hop you up?"
Scorp's eyes went wide. He was being given a choice. He was getting to be such a big, strong boy. "I'm Emilio's big boy. I want him to walk me up and help with my night stuff."
Hermione started to correct Scorp, but Emilio who had stood up and extended his hand spoke first.
"I'll walk you up little man but mum has a system in place. Crissy or Dusty will get you ready for bed as usual, but I'll stay upstairs until you are settled in for the night, if that's okay with mum."
Hermione grinned at her husband to be. "It's totally fine with me. Come give mum a kiss before you go upstairs."
"Okay mum, okay." He said, reaching out for Emilio's extended hand. "We have rules now but when Emilio is really my dad, he'll do all my night stuff with me."
Hermione nodded. "We'll see Scorp. Emilio might want Crissy and Dusty to take care of their boy."
"Okay mum, we'll see, but Emilio might want to take care of his boy…"
Emilio interjected. "Mum said we'll see Scorp. Let that be enough for now. I'll have your hand but remember to be careful on the stairs."
Scorp glanced at Hermione before replying. "I'm going to be careful but you have a wand to save me in case I trip. I'm ready."
Emilio grinned at Hermione wondering if she was thinking the same as him. Would the Lozier baby be this astute?
/*/
With Scorp down for the night, Emilio brought the subject back around to Financially Wright. By the frown on his face, Hermione made the assumption the conversation wasn't going to be all that pleasant. However, Emilio made short work of sharing his thoughts. Because they were still in the vulnerable months of the pregnancy, he thought Hermione should wait to find out what Jasmine needed before contacting Caitlin or anyone else. Hermione did admit Hannah had opted out even before a plan had been formed. Giving Hermione a direct stare, Emilio concluded that Hannah was looking out for baby Potter as well as herself. Hermione got annoyed.
"Yes Emilio. Hannah is looking out for herself and Potter baby. Are you assuming I'm not looking out for ours?"
Emilio tried to explain himself, but Hermione spoke right over him.
"Why do wizards think I don't know my limits? I'm pregnant not dying. This is the second time you've questioned my abilities and I don't appreciate it. If I want to help a witch with her endeavor, I will. Maybe you'd rather see Caitlin or even Mila assist Jasmine….."
Emilio was trying not to upset Hermione but she was upsetting herself. Rather than have their conversation become contentious, he responded in what he thought was a placating manner.
"That statement was out of line Hermione. I've never questioned your abilities and never will. However, it seems to me you are projecting your wants onto witches who have no idea they're being drawn into a plan they know nothing about, but do as you will. I believe this conversation is upsetting you so I will make myself scarce. We can revisit this conversation when the plans are in order. I'll help in any way I can. I'll stop by Louis to give him my regards then it's to The Luxe for me. I'll speak to you tomorrow. Have a good evening."
Hermione watched Emilio walk down the hall, but because she was in her feelings, she let him leave without a satisfactory conclusion.
As she got up from the couch to go check on Scorp, Hermione scolded herself. "Well done Mrs. Hermione. You couldn't have done a better job running off your fiance."
/*/
Back at The Luxe, Emilio sat on the couch and Accio'd a Guinness. Going back over the conversation he'd just had with Hermione, he admitted he could have gone about it in a different manner. Sending the empty bottle to the bin, Emilio headed to the bedroom where he undressed and got into bed. Laying in this bed was not where he wanted to be, but for the moment, it was where he needed to be. They would have to get it all sorted out tomorrow because Hermione would need to share news about her visit to Grace.
/*/
Pat/Jake and Davy had had a full Tuesday as well. Now that they had the backing of MCC, it seemed the sponsors and clients were coming out of the woodwork. Not that it was a bad thing as it was what they had worked so hard for. It appeared they would have a full schedule the entire week. As they sat going over details and setting up appointments, the door to the office opened. Both wizards stood.
Mila was at their door.
"Hello Mila. What brings you to our door this fine evening?" Asked Pat.
Davy, who had some idea nodded at their lifelong friend.
"Hello Pat, Davy. How is everything? I'd like a word Davy, if you have a minute/"
Davy tried to joke with Mila but she wasn't smiling. "Of course you may have a word Mila. You look upset. It can't be that bad."
Pat didn't know what was going on but decided he wanted to be in the lunch area. "Going for a tea, Would either you care for one?"
Both Davy and Mila declined. When Pat was out of the room, Mila came right out with it.
"I'll make this short Davy. As long as we've been mates, you've never had to dictate my life. While I admit there were numerous times I cried on you and Pat's shoulders, however, that was then, this is now. I do not appreciate you stepping across Matt for anything. You embarrassed us both. What is your issue?"
Davy hung his head. "I apologize Mila. As you say, there were many times you cried on me and Pat's shoulders. I was wary that you'd be needing our shoulders again. Matt is an amazing fellow with a bad track record. I just didn't want him to lead you on then drop you when he found another witch. I was just trying to look out for you."
Mila knew all this. She just had to make Davy say it out loud. "You, Pat, Matt and Seth have been by my side since we were teens and before. I appreciate you trying to look out for me, but stop. Whether you believe it or not, I am capable of handling my own affairs. This time, what Matt and I have is real. This time, promises have been made. I believe Matt will stand by those promises. Please make the last time you interfered the last time. Matt and I love you like a brother, but neither of us will stand for…"
Davy pulled Mila to him. "I'm sorry for being such an ass. It won't happen again. I don't want to lose friendship with either of you."
"Alright Davy. Now that we have that settled, how are things going?"
With the awkward conversation out of the way, Davy was glad to elucidate on his and Pat's good fortune. He had so much to say they were still talking when Pat returned. The three mates then discussed business and other thing for another hour before Mila left.
Pat eyed Davy. "So mate, what was all the secrecy about?"
"It wasn't secret. It was private. The long and short of it was while you were gadding about London, I stepped a foot wrong by getting into Matt and Mila's business. She came to give me a telling off. That's it."
Pat snickered at his mate. "After all this time, you haven't learned not to get between Matt and Mila? She should have hexed your arse."
Pat said what he said but wasn't going to pry any further. If Davy said it was done, it was done. They got back to setting up appointments.
/*/
Around 5:15, Theo received a text from Andrew informing him he was on his way to the site. Theo returned the text to confirm he would be there in fifteen minutes. Theo and Andrew arrived at the site almost at the same time. Before hunting down Caleb and the crews, the two wizards took a walk around the outside making mental notes on what they saw. Both Theo and Andrew were pleased with the progress as small as it was.
Once inside, Caleb and a lad named Joseph approached Theo and Andrew.
Caleb was playing it more low key than he had that morning. Joseph was first to address his bosses. "Hello again Andrew, Theo. Have a look around. The ground is like cement having sat here so long without attention. We are halfway through fixing the soil. We will be laying a proper foundation later this evening."
Andrew nodded at both the workers. "Sounds like we are on the right track. You're awfully quiet Mr. Humphreys. Nothing to say?"
With a quick glance in Theo's direction, Caleb replied he had plenty to say but would wait until the building was finished. Andrew had replied that was all well and good as long as Caleb's team could read his mind. Theo, who had remained silent until then told Andrew he needn't worry about the Nott team as they moved and worked as one. Reading minds is not necessary. Realizing he might have let the joke go to far, Andrew suggested they let the workers get on with their work. Theo concurred reminding Caleb and Joseph they expected the first status report sometime that evening and should not proceed until they got the go ahead.
"The rule has been disseminated and is understood Theo."
"Absolutely Theo." Added Joseph.
Theo and Andrew took a further look around before leaving each other at the site door to get about other business.
/*/
Gas arrived home to find Mrs. Finnigan in the midst of manually making dinner. "Good evening mum. This is a pleasant surprise. Making dinner without magic? Haven't lost your wand, have you? Where's Seana?"
Mrs. Finnigan laughed at Gas' nonsense. "Seana and her dad are over at Tudor Place setting up the house. When Sean learned there was a lot to be done, he insisted we come to London to help."
Gas was supremely happy to have the help. "Wonderful. I know Seana is so excited to get us moved she would have been moving things by herself with Evan tied to her back. We are grateful."
Mrs. Finnigan laughed out loud. "Evan tied to Seana's back. That would be a sight to see. No need to be grateful Gas. We are family. If we can help out you, Seana and Evan, we will. Sean and Seana have been gone a good while. Why don't you call to see when they'll be back."
"Excellent idea mum. I'll give Seana a call before I shower. Be back in two shakes."
On his way out of the room, Gas stopped to pick up Evan and give him a raspberry on the neck. Evan began cooing, gurgling and grunting all in one. He loved the sound of his dad's voice.
/*/
By the time Gas finished showering, Seana popped into the bedroom grabbing him from behind.
"Hello love." She said, placing three quick kisses on Gas' back.
"Hello beautiful. I understand you and dad have been working very hard. Now, if you'll place three kisses on my lips, my night will be even better."
"Not a problem Mr. Maida. I'm extremely effective in that area. I'll give you three kisses then you'll make yourself presentable to go greet my dad. After dinner, while mum and dad are still here, I want us to visit Tudor Lane so I can show you what has been accomplished."
Gas kissed Seana on the nose. "We can do that as long as the parents agree."
"Of course they'll agree, especially dad who doesn't get to see Evan as much as mum. However, we won't overstep. Come on now. Cover that handsome butt and come join us."
/*/
Ron had really changed for the better. He seldom got cranky with Celia anymore but tonight she was getting on his last nerve and he snapped at her.
"Stop gibbering Celia. And your pacing is driving me spare. Your mum and dad said they would call at 7:30. At least wait until we speak to them to go mad. This entire thing might be a misunderstanding."
Celia stopped pacing and glared at Ron. "A misunderstanding? Mother spoke very clearly and distinctly. She and father want us to have Lozier Estate after we're married."
Ron shifted in his chair. He did love Celia, but were they ready for marriage even with a huge estate thrown in. "Okay. They are moving house to England and want us to have the estate. Once they are moved, do you think they'll allow us the house if we aren't married?"
Celia glared at him again. "Maybe they will or maybe they won't. However, in my opinion, I think we should be married before moving to Pavia. It will be more respectable."
"Respectable my arse Celia. We live together now and you've never worried about being respectable."
Celia was getting angry. "Are you backing out of marrying me? If so, get stuffed. I'll take Lozier Estate and live there by myself."
Ron wrapped his arms around Celia and was about to whisper his sweet talk in her ear when her mobile rang. Jumping out of Ron's arms, she looked at the caller-ID. Emiliano Lozier was calling. Backing away from Ron, Celia spoke.
Hello father. I'm putting you on speaker. Is mother with you? Ron is here.
Hello Celia, Ron. Your mother is right here. I'll let her explain.
Celia was almost salivating. She and Ron would basically own an enormous estate without doing anything. She was more than chuffed. Ron was softly telling her to calm down.
Okay father.
Hello mum. I need you to explain the whole thing to Ron. He doesn't believe you would just give us your home.
It's your home too Celia and your father and I want you to have somewhere nice to live after your marriage. The estate could do with a few little feet pattering around.
Celia blushed from chest to hairline. Her mother was talking about the patter of little feet when she and Ron hadn't even agreed they would get married. Ron had an even deeper blush, although, it was from trying not to laugh at Celia's face. Babies, as if.
Mother! You're embarrassing us. Ron and I….
Please Celia. It was just a statement. Your father and I didn't call to discuss your intimate life. Knowing your predilection for Belgium, we aren't sure if our offer is a viable option. Have you and Ron discussed the offer?
This time, Ron spoke.
Hello Mr. and Mrs. Lozier. Celia and I have discussed your thoughtful offer and are appreciative of the gift. We do have one question. Since we haven't even begun to talk weddings and children, would the offer still stand if we moved in without being married?
For a second, Ilaria was lost for words. The way it had been stated to her, Hermione, Emilio, Emiliano and in front of Scorp was they were talking marriage. She hadn't even given a thought to them moving in without being married.
While Ilaria faltered, Emiliano stepped into the conversation.
That's an interesting question Ron. Ilaria and I have hopes of you moving into a marital home. But you live together now without a problem, so my best answer is that you two may move into Lozier Estate single, but it is our hope you all marry somewhere down the road. It wouldn't be good for anyone if you are messing Celia about.
Celia quickly replied because she knew Emilio would beat the brakes off Ron if he acted a fool.
No worries father. Ron and I plan to marry in about six months. We are together and don't plan to separate. We accept your offer. Just let us know when the house is available. Does Emilio know you are offering us the estate?
Your mother and I just decided to make this offer last evening. We haven't told Emilio yet. So that's that. Your mother and I will keep you informed. We'll say goodnight. Expect to hear from us soon. Goodnight Ron.
Yes, goodnight Celia. Goodnight Ron.
/*/
Ron, who had initially been hesitant to put a ring on Celia's finger disappeared for a minute or two to come back holding out a small, ring box. Pulling Celia over to the couch, he sat her down and looked her in the eye.
"I know your mum and dad still think I'm fiddling you about but that is farthest from the truth. I've been carrying around this ring for ages and the opportunity we've been given makes me realize now is the time for us to take the next step. Celia Lozier, I love you as I know you love me. Will you do me the favor of becoming my wife for now and forever?"
Celia couldn't believe it. Ron had been carrying around a ring for ages. Her answer was a loud and resounding yes as she held out her hand to accept the gorgeous ring.
"I love you so much Ron Weasley. Yes I'll marry you."
Grabbing Celia up in a hug, Ron suggested they hold onto their news until it could be shared with both sets of parents at the same time. Celia agreed suggesting now that her mother and father would be residing in Wiltshire, perhaps they could be talked into making a Sunday Lunch and inviting Molly and Arthur Weasley.
Ron agreed. "My mother knows how I feel about you but she'll never expect this. Let's see if we can make it happen. Right now, I want to see you to our bed. After that, we can discuss wedding dates and plans."
Using her sexiest voice, Celia told Ron to come get to work in the bedroom because she looked forward to discussing wedding dates and plans.
A very willing Ron followed closely on Celia's heels.
/*/
Matt had remained behind at MCC after everyone was gone to savor the glory of putting Chloe Knight in her place when his phone pinged twice. Checking his phone, Matt was pleased and a bit nervous to see he had a text from Mila. At the very same time, the mobile rang showing Chloe Knight calling. Matt let the phone call go to voicemail as he opened the text from Mila.
{Sender}: Mila Kohl
{Recipient}: Matt Lozio
Hello Mr. Maida. What are you on about? I mean I realize what you mean, but what are you on about? Move myself and my business to London? I think not….unless MCC plans to take on and nurture my business.
Matt smiled as he replied.
{SENDER}: Matt Lozio
{RECIPIENT}: Mila Kohl
I can do you one better Miss Kohl. I plan to take care of you for the rest of your life. I plan to marry you.
Matt laid the phone down on his desk. "Let that sink in Miss Mila."