Previously on Love Vessel Chapter 48: Lost One Gained Another
"I apologize for not being at my best. I wouldn't blame you if you sent me to my own flat. I don't want to shunt the load on my shoulders to your shoulders but I need your opinion on certain things. To be clear, parts of my day were fantastic. Other parts, not so much."
Laurie laid her hand on Zach's thigh. "We support each other whether good or bad and we don't judge. Share what you need to share love."
"Bonita walked out today."
"Walked out? Walked out to where?"
"She walked out on me and Magical Mobiles. She accused me of treating her unfairly, not recognizing her worth and disrespecting her. She also said she would be opening her own shop in the near future.
"Merlin help us. That's total bullshite Zach. You and I have discussed her snits and attitude. I thought I was being harsh, but it seems I was correct. I know you aren't stressing over things said, because….."
"Yes, you and I have discussed Bonita, however, this time I was the instigator. She knew we had a scheduled meeting with Draco Malfoy at 11:00 am. She chose to run an errand leaving me with my arse hanging out in front of Draco. When she did show up, she had an attitude so disrespectful, Draco declined to go any farther. You can imagine I was furious. At that point, I suggested if Magical Mobiles wasn't the place she wanted to be, she should do what needed to be done. She blistered my ears before quitting."
Laurie was at her most solicitous. "I would have done the same."
A smiling Zach leaned over to kiss Laurie. "You would have never done the same. You're too levelheaded for that. I have run my right hand witch away."
Leaning her head on Zach's shoulder, Laurie had an excellent response. "You didn't run anyone away. She obviously already had one foot out the door. Sounds like a bit of black mail to me. I believe she thought by threatening to quit you would fall on your knees and consent to everything she thought should be corrected. Surprise, you didn't. I'm proud of you for that. It's your company to do with what you wish. Good riddance to bad rubbish. Now, let's have dinner while you regale me with the good parts of the day."
And so he did.
Chapter 49: Moving Forward
Laurie was smiling as she listened to Zach explain the better part of his day.
"Nice Zach. I like Hermione but until this moment, I couldn't say the same for Draco Malfoy. I am impressed."
"Hahaha. We think alike love. Draco Malfoy hasn't ever been one to look out for anyone except himself. We both stand corrected. Draco and Malfoy Investments has offered myself and Magical Mobiles amazing opportunities which I intend to utilize. I believe we are on our way to becoming a very big thing."
Laurie smiled at her wizard hoping he was correct.
/
With everything tidied up at Draco's flat, Hermione, Draco and Blue got ready to floo to Hermione's flat. While Hermione was getting her bag and jacket, Blue began loudly yowling while circling Draco's ankles. When Draco bent down to give her a pat, Blue ran to Welles then back to Draco. For half a second, Draco was puzzled. His daughter was upset about something. He called out for Hermione
"HERMIONE come. There's something wrong with Blue."
Hermione came rushing into the front room expecting to see her baby writhing across the floor or something. Turning to Draco with an inquisitive look on her face, Hermione snapped off a reply.
"Something wrong like what Malfoy?"
Just as the last words were out of Hermione's mouth, Blue came running into the room yowling, but as soon as Hermione leaned down to pick her up, Blue skittered across the floor running back to Welles. Following behind her daughter, Hermione felt anger building up inside her. Welles had done something to Blue and she wouldn't stand for it.
"Get your bloody elf Draco. He has done something to Blue. GET HIM!"
Draco, who was on Hermione's heels was shouting for her to calm down.
"Calm down? I'll calm down when you…."
Blue was sitting on Welles' lap as content as you please. Hermione grabbed her up.
Draco, who was a bit upset snapped at Hermione. "What is it you find offensive about Welles? This is the second time you accused him of trying to harm Blue. As far as I can see, Welles hasn't done anything and Blue is happy to be around him. Perhaps it's time for you reassess."
Turning to face Draco, Hermione snapped right back. "Reassess? I'll reassess when you explain why you shouted at me. Come here. There's something wrong with Blue. Blue and I will be leaving. I think it's best you remain in your own flat for tonight."
Blue was listening to the tone her mum was using and wasn't happy. Jumping out of Hermione's arms, she ran back over to Welles but the elf stood stock still in place. There was no way he would allow something to upset his master or his witch.
"If you'll allow Mister Draco, I'll excuse myself. It is not and never has been my intention to upset Miss Hermione or Blue."
"Stay where you are Welles. You have been my man for years and never once stepped out of line. This time is no different. I don't know why Blue is upset, but I don't think it has anything to do with something you've done wrong. Miss Hermione is upset, but we'll get this sorted."
"Alright Mr. Draco."
As he was speaking, Blue was circling Welles' legs. When Welles leaned over to give Blue a pat, the Kneazle ran up his arm and settled herself on his shoulder. Both Hermione and Draco were surprised. Welles hadn't done anything. It was Blue who was acting weird.
Walking over to Draco and wrapping both arms around his arm, Hermione offered a soft apology. "I'm sorry love. I let my emotions get the best of me. Welles has done nothing. In fact, I think this is all about our daughter wanting her friend to come home with us."
Leaning down to kiss Hermione on the nose, a surprised Draco had become tongue tied.
Hermione laughed. "Nothing to say Malfoy? If it's aright with you, it's alright with me. Blue can have friends in."
Finally finding his voice, Draco nodded. "Alright love. It's alright with me. Welles, please pack up my shirts and incidentals. You have been invited to spend some time at Hermione's flat."
"Yes Mr. Draco. I'll be getting it done Thank you Miss Hermione for inviting me."
"As strange as it might seem, I haven't invited you anywhere. That's all down to Blue. You know the way. There's no need for Draco and I to wait. Pack up and bring Blue along when you come."
Welles made a little bow in Hermione's direction and popped away to do what needed to be done while Draco stood there not believing his ears. Hermione was allowing her baby out of her sight and in the hands of an elf.
"If you're sure, let's get to Casa Granger. Welles and Blue will be along."
Grabbing Draco by the hand and heading towards the floo, Hermione whispered her thoughts.
"Blue wants company. Our baby is growing up. I hope Welles remembers to use her cage."
/
Bonita was settled on the end of her couch second guessing what she had done. A fit of anger had caused her to give up her position in an amazing company. It was true she felt Zach wasn't giving her enough credit or respect but those were things that could have been worked out. Now she was without a position or the friendship of a fantastic wizard. She sat there holding a drink wondering if she apologized to Zach would he ask her back. After several more drinks, she decided it wouldn't hurt to fall on her sword. All he could say was yes or no.
As she sat there pontificating, her mobile rang. Checking the call-id, Bonita didn't move. Blaise Zabini was calling again looking for something she wasn't willing to give. She had more important things going on than being at the beck and call of some wizard.
/
A half dressed Blaise was sitting on the side of his bed staring at his mobile. Not because anything was wrong with the mobile but because this was his fourth call to Bonita that hadn't been picked up. Blaise knew, unless she was laid up in St Mungo's unable to use her hands, Bonita had received his messages. However, after several more seconds of staring at the mobile, he was hit with an epiphany. No matter how suave, interesting and handsome he thought himself to be he had met a witch not bowled over by his attributes. Didn't happen very often, but appeared to be happening now.
"Ah! Clever, clever girl. Not responding to my messages means you don't have to explain yourself. Fine. Consider Blaise Zabini schooled. That was the last call you'll get from me. Feel free to ignore another bloke."
Blaise threw down the mobile and headed to his closet where he planned to select one of his most handsome suits and go out on the town. There were plenty of witches out there who would be glad to get a message from Blaise Zabini. In the back of his mind sat an interesting thought. Was Blaise Zabini losing his appeal?
"Nah never." He remarked, Summoning one of his navy blue suits and spelling it to Hang and Turn. "Upscale pubs call for upscale apparel and that I can pull off."
/
Belinda had searched through every drawer in her study looking for all the documents pertaining to her former position. It wasn't something she had to do. It was something she wanted to do now she had been invited to the new group of friends. There was no way she wanted to be the only layabout among a group of working witches and wizards. If the documents she was looking for did nothing more than refresh her memory, she would be thankful.
She was still reviewing requirements of her previous job when an owl began banging on her window. Putting documents aside, Bonita went to retrieve the message.
"Hello owl. I don't have a clue as to who would be messaging me but I'll read your message to find out."
The owl gave a flap of its wings and flew off.
Belinda was surprised. Hermione was offering a mobile phone so they could have chats. Nothing wrong with that except Belinda really didn't want to be beholden to anyone no matter how nice they were. Hermione also asked if she and Draco could come for a visit. The reply was simple. She would accept a mobile if she could pay back down the line and they were welcome to visit her. The visit was set for 4:30 Saturday.
Letting out a soft sigh, Belinda got back to her review. She needed a position and wanted to be as informed as possible.
/
As soon as Draco and Hermione landed in her flat, Hermione pulled out her wand and pointed it at Blue's home cage lifting and moving it to the storage area.
"Why?" Asked Draco.
"Why what love?"
"Why are you moving Blue's travel cage?"
"Think about it Malfoy. If Welles will be bringing Blue home in a cage, etc., etc., etc."
Draco laughed as he grabbed Hermione from behind and nuzzled her neck. "Alright Granger, I get it. Took me a minute. However, on to a new topic. I will say I've heard more than enough Malfoys come out of that mouth. I have a name, use it."
Reaching behind her, Hermione tried to pinch with both hands. "Really? Malfoy, Malfoy, Malfoy."
Moving away quickly, Draco called out. "Missed me. Shouldn't you be preparing a space for our visitor? He'll need a safe space away from the females in this flat."
Splat. Hermione had charmed a pillow to smack Draco upside his head. "Didn't miss this time, did I D-r-a-c-o?"
Draco was grinning and ducking in case his witch wasn't through. "You certainly didn't my love. If you don't mind, there are a few things regarding Magical Mobiles I'd like to review before I visit the shop again."
"I don't mind. Give me some kisses before you lock yourself in the study."
After several sweet kisses, Hermione went to make space for Welles and Draco headed to the study.
"Love you Miss Granger."
Love you more Mr. Draco."
Draco was chuckling as he closed the study door.
/
The quiet in the flat overtook Hermione. She suddenly wondered when Welles and Blue would get there. Draco may have been joking about letting Blue out of her sight and in the care of an elf, but she was starting to fret. Just when she thought of flooing through to Draco's flat, a swirling mist appeared in the Apparition area. Seconds later Welles and a caged up Blue materialized.
Welles immediately opened Blue's travel cage to let her out. Blue ran to her mum for a quick pat then went back to Welles.
"Good evening again Miss Hermione. I apologize for taking so long to get here but I had miscalculated the number of shirts Mr. Draco had requested. I used the additional minutes to correct my oversight."
Even though she'd just been ready to floo over to Draco's to check on Blue, Hermione nodded her understanding.
"Thank you for the explanation Welles. However, you and Blue are here now. Mr. Draco and I have set up your personal space. Follow me. As I said, this your personal space. You may close the door any time you wish. At this time, Draco hasn't decided how long you'll stay so I'll caution you to always check on Mr. Draco's flat even though you are here. After I speak to Draco, he might want to set tasks for here as well as his flat. Here we are. I think this will be more than enough room for you."
Welles made a small bow then with a small movement of his hand brought Draco's white shirts to size. "Thank you Miss Hermione. If you'll show me where to hang the shirts, I'll be glad to do it."
Picking up her wand, Hermione assured Welles she would see to the shirts. With another bow, Welles retired to his room with Blue on his heels.
Hermione guided Draco's shirts to their closet then sat on the side of their bed. Blue hadn't even followed behind her to make sure she hadn't missed anything.
"Our girl is growing up. A friend seemed to mean more than her mum and Da. Draco will
be upset."
/
By the time Draco finished the client reviews, Hermione was asleep fully dressed on top of the blankets.
Draco shook Hermione awake. "Come on love. Get up and get undressed."
Hermione sat up and looked around. "Blue didn't even come check on me."
Sitting down beside Hermione, Draco pointed to the blue fur ball sleeping soundly in her special spot. "Nonsense love. Blue might be infatuated with Welles, but she still loves her mum and Da. Come on now get up and change into your pajamas."
Giving Blue a quick pat, Hermione headed to the bathroom. Their girl wasn't putting Welles or anyone else before her mum and Da.
/
Draco and Hermione slept in Saturday morning but were awakened by the delicious smells coming from the kitchen. After a stretch, Hermione was all for getting breakfast. Draco, however, was all for a bit of the loving he missed out on the previous night. Hermione kissed her wizard before jumping out of bed.
"A kiss is all you get this morning. I'm going to have a pee then some of that good smelling breakfast."
Draco tried to grab Hermione as she passed but missed.
"Missed me D-r-a-c-o. Get up. I want breakfast a shower and maybe a quick pass through Diagon Alley."
Draco pulled himself out of bed. "Okay. I'm up. I don't like it, but I'm up. Saturday morning should be the time two people in love spend together...in bed….doing things. We can go to Diagon Alley together. You can go to your shops. I'll go to Magical Mobiles and we can meet….."
Giving Draco an eye roll, Hermione changed into a tee and jeans. "I'm not meeting you anywhere Malfoy. I want to pick up a few personal items. I don't need you looking over my shoulder patting your foot. However, before that, I'm going to eat breakfast."
Draco gave an eye roll right back. "There you have it witches, wizards, elves and Kneazles. Miss Hermione Granger is back to her normal self. Fine Hermione snap me up. You'll still have to sit at the same breakfast table as me. Blue won't appreciate the way you're treating her Da."
"Save it Malfoy. Just remember you need to buy a mobile and speak to Zach. It's Saturday. His shop might not be open all day. Get that lovely bum moving."
Draco sighed. "Fine, I'll get moving but I'm coming to the table in my underwear."
Hermione smiled at Draco's response and gave a nonsense reply. "Lalala. I can't hear you over myself chewing these lovely sausages and potatoes. Blue says hurry up."
Draco plopped down in a chair in his underwear which caused Hermione to break out in laughter. "Is this really how you want Welles to see you? He'll be scarred for life."
Snagging a sausage off the platter, Draco glared at Hermione. "Never you mind what Welles sees. Just finish up your breakfast so you can take your solitary arse to Diagon Alley and visit the shops alone."
Hahahaha. "You are such a….such a….wonderful boyfriend. I'm going to take a quick shower and be off. I'll probably be back before you finish those potatoes. Love you Malfoy. I won't ask you to feed Blue because Welles has probably already seen to it."
Draco, who hadn't expected Hermione's reply jumped up to follow her into the room. "Riddle me this Miss Granger. If I'm such a wonderful boyfriend, how come you won't give me even a tiny bit of loving? It won't take long. I promise."
Suddenly, Blue was standing in the doorway giving Draco the stare down. Evidently, Draco had spoken too loudly and she was there to reprimand him.
"What Blue? For your information and my satisfaction Hermione, I want you to know our daughter is out here giving me the stink eye."
Blue made a soft purr as she circled Draco's legs then left the room with tail held high.
"Whatever." Draco huffed. "Both females in this flat need a lesson and I'm the wizard who will give it to them."
Hermione was out of the shower.
"Your turn. What's that you're whining about Malfoy? Not getting enough attention then? All I'll say is remember I have a little, black book and I give Granger demerits. Want to try for either one?"
"No love. I like things just the way they are."
"Thought so. I believe I'll adjust my itinerary. I'll forego shopping but I will accompany you to Magical Mobiles."
A grinning Draco strode to the bathroom leaving a short bit of cheek in his wake. "Thought so."
/
Welles had made a delicious breakfast which Hermione and Draco enjoyed while discussing the plan of attack for Zach. Draco wanted to ask straight out but Hermione suggested they play it cagey until they have full disclosure on Belinda.
Draco thought about it as he finished chewing what was in his mouth. "You have a point love. The most I'll do is remind Zach of what we discussed."
"You'll also remind him not to make any hasty decisions such as promoting Gordon then moving the next person up. At least not until…."
"I know. I know. Not until we have a good sense of what Belinda is about. Remind me again. Why are we trying to move heaven and earth for a witch you just met?"
Blue, who had been resting at her usual place under the table raised her head and let out three successive purrs. She obviously didn't like the tone her Da was taking.
"Your daughter doesn't like your tone Draco and neither do I. I suggested we help Belinda because what she went through and because she lost her husband at a very young age. If it is too much for you, leave her out of the equation and proceed as you have planned. I'm quite knowledgeable. I'll figure it out myself."
For several seconds, Draco sat silent. Hermione, having made her point remained silent as well. Blue went running for Welles' room.
Throwing his napkin down on the table, Draco replied in a fairly rough voice. "What tone would that be Hermione? I asked a simple question which would normally require a simple answer. However, it seems I've hit a nerve. My apology. Something about this witch doesn't feel right, but from here on out, you help Belinda. I'll mind my business. I'm going to shower."
Hermione watched her wizard walk away wondering what in Merlin's good name had caused her to act like...like...like Hermione Granger. Leaving the breakfast remains where they were, she followed Draco to the bathroom hoping she could soothe him by word or by deed.
/
Draco sighed when Hermione stepped in behind him and spoke accordingly.
"Although you are welcome in your own shower, I really don't feel up to another altercation."
"I'm not here to altercate Draco. I'm here to apologize for snapping you up. What you said about something not being right with Belinda struck a nerve. I'm hoping you're wrong. I'm not an overly friendly witch who picks up strays…"
Draco turned around simply to give Hermione the stink eye.
Hermione grinned. "Excluding Blue."
Draco continued to glare.
"What? I hope you don't mean Deidra and the five witches of The Coven. I didn't choose them. They chose me." Wrapping her arms around Draco, Hermione began again. "I like Belinda and I want us to help her. Nothing monumental just a little help."
Draco leaned down to kiss Hermione making sure to press his rock hard manhood against her. "Alright love. I can live with that. Now. Is there something else you need?"
"Yes Mr. Malfoy. There is something else. I'd like you to back me against this wall, lift my leg, and….."
Hermione's words had gotten Draco so heated he didn't let her finish the sentence.
"I think I know what to do." He whispered hoarsely.
And so he did.
/
Theo and Jessie were just finishing up breakfast when someone knocked on the door.
"Could that be your secret lover Jess? Should I go for my wand?"
Kissing Theo on his forehead, Jessie laughed out loud. "Until last evening, I was trying to hold fast to my one London lad. Trust me. There isn't any lover other than you secret or otherwise."
Theo grinned, answering in a very low voice. "I knew that."
Jessie came back followed by Jayson who had automatically extended his hand to Theo.
"Theo my wizard. Good to see you."
"Good to see you as well Jayson. You're out and about bright and early."
Both Jessie and Jayson went full blush.
"That I am Theo. I purposely made an early trip to advise Jess that our parents will be in Tenby this afternoon. I expect they'll Owl first, but I imagine they'll be stopping in."
Jessie didn't know what to say. Yes, she and Theo had spoken about meeting her parents, but to come unannounced was impolite. Theo took her worry away with a few simple words.
"That's lovely. I had it in mind for Jess to show me the beautiful scenery Tenby has to offer possibly let me dip my feet into water at the beach. However, meeting Aaron and Matilda is a pleasure I wouldn't miss for the world."
Jessie walked over to Theo and grabbed his hand. "And they'll be pleased to meet you."
Theo was thinking and spoke his thoughts. "I know many people aren't used to this new device." He said, holding up his mobile. "But, if it is permissible, I'd like to offer you, your dad and mum one so we can contact each other with the push of a button. Owls can be slow."
Jayson smiled. Owls weren't slow. Theo Nott just wanted to have advance notice if the parents were going to show up.
"Sounds interesting Theo. May I have a look at yours?"
As Theo handed over the device, he had an epiphany. Why not make a quick run to Diagon Place to pick up mobiles for Jayson, Aaron and Matilda. "Have a look mate. While you're doing that, I'm going to step out for a moment if it's okay with Jess."
Theo's words were a surprise to Jessie but what was there to say. Theo was a grown wizard. He could step away any time he chose.
"Alright love. Jay and I will be here when you get back. Maybe we can go out when you get back."
"Sounds good love. I shouldn't be gone more than thirty minutes. Don't let Jayson drink up all the brandy."
Both Jessie and Jayson laughed at Theo's cheek. While sister and brother were having a laugh, someone knocked on the door.
"Who's that? Not hiding another wizard from Theo are you?"
Giving her brother a shove, Jessie went to answer the door. To her surprise it was Gayle.
"Hello Gayle. Surprised to see you here. Jayson is here. Come on in."
Gayle greeted Jayson then apologized for coming unannounced.
"Nonsense Gayle. You are welcome at my flat any time. Jay and I were just going over Theo's mobile."
Gayle stood up like she'd been burned. "Holy shit. Have I interrupted your time with Theo? I'll just…."
Jessie shook her head. "You're not interrupting anything Gayle. Theo had to step away for a moment. Would you like a drink or a snack?"
Not knowing full details of anything Gayle fell back on her beliefs that London wizards were no good. "Theo was here and had to step away for a few minutes? That's strange. You'd think he would have done whatever before coming all the way to Wales."
Jayson, who knew the whole Draco Malfoy story and Gayle's feelings about it was first to reply. "How is that strange Gayle? Theo had something to do and he's gone to do it."
Gayle acted flustered. "Oh Jayson. I didn't mean anything really."
Jessie knew that Jayson knew Gayle was trying to be petty. However, she had promises from her London lad and no disgruntled friend would change any of it. Jessie chose the high road.
"Come through to the bedroom Gayle. I want to show you my newest purchases."
Gayle followed Jessie noticing the large bouquet of flowers. However, she didn't say a thing because she was jealous.
/
Theo walked into Magical Mobiles thinking to be assisted by Zach but got Gordon instead.
"Good morning Mr. Nott. May I help you with something?"
"Yes. I'd like to speak to Zach or Bonita."
"Zach is tied up at the moment and Bonita is no longer here but I'd be glad to help you."
Theo shrugged. "Alright then. I'm looking to purchase three mobiles. They don't have to be top of the line just something to keep us connected."
"Alright. I think I have just the thing. In addition, we've just received a shipment of mobile covers which allow users to personalize the phones."
Theo had just picked up a Mobile Modifier when Draco and Hermione came out from the back followed closely by Zach.
Draco extended his hand. "Hello Theo. Good to see you mate."
Zach did the same.
Theo shook Draco's hand as he nodded to Hermione and Zach. "Wizard Malfoy. Nice to see you as well. I'm here to pick up a few mobiles for friends in Wales. Hopefully, it can be done quickly as I'm expected back for lunch."
"Well, Hermione and I are on our way out. I'm sure Zach or Gordon won't steer you wrong. Mates supporting mates. See you later."
Zach didn't waste any time. He was not about to lose a sale. "I'd be glad to help you but Gordon is as knowledgeable as myself. If you don't mind, I'll excuse myself."
"Not a problem Zach. If anything goes wrong, I know where to find you."
Zach and Gordon smiled at Theo's remark.
Working with Gordon, it had only taken Theo twenty minutes to decide on what he wanted including four of the new Mobile Modifiers Gordon was pushing. With the transaction completed, Theo shrunk his purchases and made his way to the door where he activated his London to Wales Portkey.
/
On a Saturday afternoon when he should have been getting his beauty sleep, Blaise was revisiting the message he had received from Bonita. She apologized for not getting back to him but was going through something and just wanted to let him know she would probably be leaving London. Because Blaise had resigned himself to the fact Bonita wasn't interested in him, the message and the apology really meant nothing. He didn't bother to send a return message. There were witches out there who would fall all over themselves to be with the Italian playboy. Bonita was in his past.
/
As Hermione and Draco made their way back up Diagon Alley, Draco squeezed Hermione to him. Being a very perceptive witch, Hermione smiled to herself thinking her wizard was probably wondering why Theo was buying another three phones.
"Not your business." Hermione commented in a sing song voice.
Draco gave her a quick kiss on the nose remarking in the same sing song voice. "I know that."
They both had a good laugh over something that wasn't their business.