Previously on Love Vessel Chapter 51: Good Moods
Hermione stuck her tongue out at Draco before stepping into the study closing the door behind her.
Sighing, Draco went to have a pee before Welles got to the main bathroom. His churlish witch was going to be even more churlish when she found him in bed sleeping.
"Nothing to see here folks. Just another fabulous Saturday night in the Granger-Malfoy relationship."
Thirty five minutes later, Draco had to walk back his words when Hermione jumped on his back and began kissing him all over the neck and face.
"I love you Malfoy even when you're cranky."
Smiling into the pillow, Draco mumbled out a reply. "I know that Granger. Now please get off my back and come to bed. I want to be well rested when I take you out to brunch tomorrow."
"Yes. My wizard is taking me out to brunch. I'll be spending all those Malfoy coins."
Twisting himself so he could wrap his arms around Hermione, Draco gave an order. "I have heard Malfoy come out that mouth once too many times today. Please use my given name."
Chuckling, Hermione got up to change into pajamas. "Okay Draco. No problem Draco. Trying for a hex Draco? I love you Malfoy."
"That will do. I just love hearing my name come out of your mouth."
Hermione slid into bed. "And contrary to my usual behavior, I love saying it. Goodnight Draco."
Wrapping his arms around Hermione, Draco wished her a goodnight as well.
A/N: Excoquatur vestimenta sua is a basic Latin translation.
Chapter 52: Moving Forward. Moving Fast.
As soon as they got back to Mona's, Wesley took her in his arms kissing her liberally on the face and neck.
"You smell delicious my love. That must be what attracted the bloke to your side because I can't imagine you were sending out single witch vibes."
Mona smiled as she took Wesley's hand. "I absolutely was not sending out single witch vibes even though I'm a single witch. He and I were holding an innocent conversation nothing more."
"Well, that's good to know. In fact, let's have a conversation, at the end of which, you will no longer be a single witch."
Mona was shaking inside. She and her paramour were about to take a step which could change her life as she knew it. "Alright Mr. Corwin, impress me. Let's have our discussion."
The conversation which could change her life path was done and over in twenty minutes. She and Wesley were now witch and wizard. There wouldn't be any more cozy chats with wizards standing at a bar or anywhere else. For now, they were a permanent couple.
Grabbing Mona's face between his hands, Wesley left two searing kisses on her lips before offering a small bit of cheek. "Was that so hard?"
"Wasn't hard at all. Now I'm one part of a relationship I might have to delegate a few of my duties throughout my team. In fact, pour us a drink while I text the team. I'll have wine."
"I can do that love. White wine it will be."
Mona sent a group text to The Coven witches:
{SENDER}: Mona
{RECIPIENT}: Group 1
Greetings witches. I am setting a Coven meeting for 10:00 am Monday. There is a discussion and a question which needs to be put before the group. I'll see you all at 10:00.
Hurrying back to her glass of wine, Mona held up her glass. "Let's have a toast to a wizard and his witch."
Clinking his glass against Mona's, Wesley had a toast on the tip of his lips. "May this lucky wizard hold onto his witch."
Mona smiled as she took a sip of wine wondering at the back of her mind how she would go about adjusting certain things. For now, her attention would be on her wizard.
/
When they received Mona's text, each witch of The Coven trembled. Knowing the rules for leader of The Coven regarding relationships, they hoped the meeting wouldn't turn into something dire. If necessary and to keep Mona in the top spot, they would force a vote to adjust the bylaws.
/
Both Draco and Hermione slept in Sunday morning, but were up and dressed well before time to go out for brunch. As they sipped on a morning coffee, Hermione wondered out loud why they had to go out to brunch when Welles was a fantastic cook.
Draco stared at Hermione over the rim of his cup. "While I realize my man is an excellent cook, I want to take you out because I want to take you out Hermione."
Hermione gave Draco the stare down. "I was just wondering out loud. Don't make me use my wand on you this Sunday morning."
Reaching over, Draco patted Hermione on the back of her hand. "Calm down wonder witch. The last thing I want is you drooling and snotting waving a wand in my direction."
Hermione laughed out loud. "Drooling and snotting is it? Someone is just dying to get a place next to the bone. Is that it D-R-A-C-O? Just keep it up and the staff at Malfoy Investments will be wondering what happened to the boss."
Draco stood up. "Alright, alright. That's enough threats for one morning. Are we going or are we staying?"
Hermione stood as well and leaned down to rub Blue who had come charging into the kitchen. "We are going Mr. Malfoy. Please try to take me to a place not owned by one of your former flames."
Draco rolled his eyes but didn't immediately respond knowing Hermione was trying to start something. "Your tactics aren't working Granger. Would you like it better if we went somewhere frequented by McLaggen or Goldstein? I can make it happen.
Instead of being annoyed, Hermione broke out in a burst of laughter. "Trying to get out of buying me that ring Malfoy? That's not going to happen. Too late to back out now. In fact, after brunch, why don't we go over to the High Street to browse jewelry shops? I'm in the mood for a full English including beans."
Draco knew Hermione was being ridiculous. She wouldn't let a bean pass through that dainty, little mouth. "Okay. I'll raise you some beans and see you some Black Pudding." He laughed when Hermione began gagging. "What, no beans or Black Pudding? Who knew?"
After Summoning their coats, Hermione gave Draco a hard pinch. "That's for being a prat. Let's say goodbye to Blue and Welles and be on our way."
Which they did.
/
Theo and Jessie landed in her back hall damp and laughing. They had taken a morning walk which unfortunately ended in a rain shower.
"Thank you for the walk Jess even though it had to come to an abrupt end. Come here so I can dry you off."
Jessie walked over to Theo holding her hands over her head. "Alright Mr. Nott. Do your best then I'll return the favor."
Theo smirked at his fiancee. "Really love? You have forgotten just who your fiance is. I am one of the strongest wand hands in London. I can dry myself. *Excoquatur vestimenta sua! There, back to dry." Calling out the spell again, Theo dried his own clothes. "Our walk may have been ruined by rain but I'm content to spend some time with my witch. In fact, we might want to have a conversation about how soon you'll be moving to London."
Plopping down beside Theo, Jessie placed her head on his shoulder. "Are we talking days because as you know Mr. Nott, I have a position in a lovely company here in Wales which I will not leave short."
Theo began sputtering. Jessie was quite right. He was so intent on getting her close to him he hadn't thought it all out. "My apologies love. I'm so excited to have you as my fiancee I forgot my manners. Of course you'll have to give your employer enough notice. What are your thoughts? Do you think sixty days is enough?"
Jessie was thinking. Sixty days should be more than enough but she didn't have any intention of moving in with Theo. They would remain respectful until they were bonded and that is exactly what she shared with Theo who had immediately agreed.
"Of course Jess. I respect you and your family. I'd be lying if I didn't admit my thoughts were of you moving in with me. However, I'm not called the premier Real Estate Entrepreneur in London for nothing. It will be child's play for me to find you a top flat. In fact, sixty days will be more than enough time to get you set up."
Even though Theo made it sound so easy, Jessie was still hesitant. Moving to London was a big step. Leaving Wales was a big step. She was quiet so long Theo gently pulled her around so they were looking into each other's eyes.
"Do you have reservations Jess? If you do, I'll abide by your wishes. I do want you near me but I won't push. Portkeys are made to get a bloke to his fiancee in the blink of an eye. I will survive."
Jessie stretched up to leave a kiss on Theo's cheek. Her wizard wanted her near him. She could do worse. Sixty days was enough time to get her personal business tied up. With Theo and Jayson's help, the move should be straight forward.
"I agree to the move. Sixty days will be more than enough time to give notice. However, I'll caution you to have a flat for me by the First of June which I'll have the last say."
Squeezing Jessie to his chest, Theo broke out in a wide grin. "Consider it done love. I'll have something to show you by next weekend. In fact, I'll have four or five flats to show you. It will be your choice. Thank you for consenting to be my wife. Once you are settled in, we can begin to discuss wedding dates."
Jessie had a bit to add. "Before I'm settled in and set up a flat, I'll need to find a position. I cant rely on you for everything."
Theo Nott got in his feelings. "I'd be upset if I didn't think you are joking. It would be an honor for my fiancee to rely on me. That's part of being in a serious relationship."
With her joke falling flat, Jessie let the conversation lapse. "Put your feet up Theo while I fix us a nice lunch. Would you rather roast beef or roast pork?"
Theo realized why Jessie had changed the subject and respected her decision. They could have a further conversation in the coming weeks. "A nice pork roast sounds fine love. Before you start, I'd like a kiss to show you still love me."
Jessie gave him two kisses in quick succession. "I'm never going to stop loving you, so you'll need to find a different line of reasoning. Pork roast it will be."
/
The rest of Sunday was pleasant for almost everyone.
/
Monday morning found many witches and wizards in one state or another.
Although she had declined another Kneazle, Hermione looked forward to visiting Laurie and pressing Harry about the Iuvenis Curse.
Zach was excited to meet Draco and Hermione's referral.
Belinda was excited to meet Zach and Gordon who just might become her new bosses.
Roscoe, who had a text from Patrick was excited for the next batch of Mobile Modifiers.
Theo, who was home missing his witch had to make himself snap to and check inventory for top notch flats.
Jessie, who was officially engaged couldn't wait to give notice and show off her ring.
The witches of The Coven were nervous about the meeting with Mona and what it could mean.
Bonita had made a decision to speak to Zach about getting her position back.
Wesley and Mona were excited about their new relationship.
Blaise made the decision to start dating with intention or at least try.
Draco simply looked forward to his Directors telling him how much money they'd made.
/
First thing Monday, Welles had approached Draco with a request to visit Draco's flat to insure everything was tidy and pick up incidentals he'd noticed were running low. Draco had given permission noting that the elf leave Blue at Hermione's. With a nod and a slight bow, Welles popped out.
"What was that about? I heard the word incidentals. Have you run out of boxers and socks?"
"Starting early are we Miss Granger? To answer your query. I am running low on those very things. You wouldn't want me walking around sock less and boxer less would you? I have told Welles to leave Blue here. Our darling will be alone for a short bit of time."
Instead of replying to Draco, Hermione called out to Blue.
"Come here Blue. Mum wants to speak to you."
Blue came sauntering into the room with her tail held high then sat on her haunches as if waiting to hear what her mum had to say.
Hermione glanced at Draco. Their girl was upset. Walking over to pick her up, Hermione gave her kisses while explaining that Welles would be back shortly. Blue let out two very loud meows which caught both Hermione and Draco by surprise.
Draco gave Blue a rub but she remained stiff. "You've taught our daughter well. She'll pull a pout if she doesn't have her way. We are going to be in big trouble when Welles goes back to the flat for good."
Hermione didn't have a chance to respond before Blue jumped out of her arms and ran out of the room.
"I'll take that to mean Welles is back. We've created a monster. Do you think it's time to send Welles home for good?"
Hermione didn't even have to think about it. "That would be a no Draco. With Welles here, Blue has someone to keep her company. We'll deal with her bit of temper when we decide to send him home. Right now, this lovely witch has to get a move on. I want to track Harry down. I need to have a conversation."
Draco sighed. "This conversation wouldn't be about Auror business, would it? If it is, I suggest you think again. Harry indulges you, but he won't thank you…."
"For fucks sake Draco. I'm not going to interfere. I just want to hear more. You do remember I'm part of DME which is a department that works hand in hand with other departments which includes the Auror Department."
"Okay hand in hand. Your brother might not see it that way. You might look up to see Harry at your door with a team. Anyway, I need to get going as well. We'll probably hear from Zach later this morning. I love your nosy arse. I'll see you tonight."
Hermione finished with her hair mumbling about smart mouth wizards who owed her a ring. Then she too stepped into the floo calling out Ministry of Magic, main floor. Seconds later, she was in the lift headed for her floor.
/
A very chipper Wesley arrived about three minutes after Hermione carrying a tea for both of them.
"Good morning Wesley. You seem very upbeat this morning. I think we're going to have an excellent Monday."
With greetings out of the way, the pair started sorting through the pending cases. Hermione carefully reviewed the cases hoping one or more would involve the Iuvenis Curse. She was reviewing so slowly Wesley made a remark about getting on the road. Hermione was about to give him her famous side eye when Harry appeared at the door.
"Good morning DME." He called out. Then speaking softly, Harry commented on the almost side eye. This time, Hermione really did roll her eyes...at Harry.
"Good morning Harry? How's everything?" Asked Wesley.
"Everything is good Wesley, but give it time. The day has only started. I know you are on your way out, but I'd like a quick word with your partner."
"Alright. I neglected to check the mailbox. I'll do that now."
As soon as Wesley stepped away, Harry said what he'd come to say. "While you and Wesley are in the field, please keep your eyes open for anything suspicious."
This time, Hermione glared at Harry. "If you're going to talk nonsense, get on your way. You know I always have my eyes open for everything, especially something suspicious. Am I to believe there might be other victims out there?"
"Yes dear. You may believe. As we know, Wesley is aware of the curse so fill him in. I think we haven't seen the end of this."
Hermione growled. "Don't call me dear unless you're looking to get hexed. I-we will contact you immediately if we come across anything suspicious….well suspicious regarding the curse. Everything else is our business. Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to get going."
Harry moved towards the door. "Alright dear. Have a good day."
Hermione flicked her wand at Harry who scrambled to make himself scarce. "Thanks Harry. Have a good day."
Harry raised a hand to acknowledge his irritable best friend.
/
Wesley was back. "Mailbox is clear."
"Are we ready partner?" Asked Hermione.
"We are ready partner. Off we go to Reading. I'm hoping the scoundrels are having a lie in." Joked Wesley.
"No such luck. They are probably up and scoundreling already." Hermione joked back.
Wesley let out a loud chuckle. "There's no such word as scoundreling but funny nonetheless. On to Reading."
Hermione laughed at herself as she followed Wesley to the lifts.
/
Draco hadn't gotten his arse settled in his chair good when Roscoe appeared his office door.
"Good morning Draco. Do you have a moment?"
"I do Roscoe. Come in. What's good?"
"Just a quick report. Over the weekend, I received a text from Patrick advising me he had another batch of Magical Modifiers ready for pick up. I took the liberty of stopping by his shop to pick it up. Additionally, I dropped by Magical Mobiles to speak to Zach. He was pleased with the product and contracted to purchase the entire lot."
Draco smiled. "You've been busy. If I didn't know you are working this hard for the good of Malfoy Investments, I'd think it is for the commission."
Roscoe had no reply as his extra effort was for a bit of both. "That's it for now boss except I've had an inspiration."
Draco gestured for him to continue. So he did.
The long and short of it was Roscoe wanted his effort to be on the record in case something went wrong. His idea was to spruce Patrick up a bit then take him out a couple of times for a pint or a drink maybe a dinner.
"I believe if Patrick loosens up a bit, he'll be even more creative. I may get a witch involved."
Draco, who had been nodding at what Roscoe was saying right up until he mentioned getting a witch involved, straightened his back. "A witch? What witch? Don't go overboard Roscoe. There is only one type of witch who will take pay for services, and we're not going to push that on Patrick. He'd probably fall over."
Roscoe smiled, but he was also annoyed. Draco knew he didn't mess about with slags. "I'm not talking about those kind of witches Draco. I do have respectable, female friends who would love to join myself and a friend for dinner."
Draco raised a hand in the air. "Tone Mr. Fallon, tone. I wasn't disparaging your idea which I think is brilliant. I just want to be sure we aren't forcing something on Patrick he isn't ready for."
"No problem there Draco. I'll make him ready. Now that I have your approval, I'll move forward. I'm thinking I'll present all this to Patrick as something offered to important clients."
"Even better Roscoe. Well thought out. Keep me informed."
"Will do boss. I'll be out of the office for most of the afternoon. See you later."
Leaning back in his chair, Draco thought he should have promoted Roscoe to Director a lot sooner than he had. As he began to review the files on his desk, his mobile beeped.
A text was coming through.
/
Zach had still been reeling from an unexpected visit from Bonita who had the audacity to want the position she had thrown away back. As if. Zach had made short work of his overly entitled former right hand. His answer had been no, no and no. Bonita had shrugged her shoulders and left the shop glaring and grumbling. He hadn't given her attitude a second thought although he did accept a handshake from Gordon.
Even though he was reeling internally, Zach was all business when Gordon showed his applicant in. Extending his hand, Zach had welcomed Belinda Durant to his shop.
As they went over her application, Zach was pleased to see Belinda had previously worked around and with the public. Her references, although a bit out of date, were all listed.
Zach invited Belinda to spend some time out front with Gordon and the team in an effort to see how well she fit in or didn't fit in. His was a frenetic, new company that needed high energy witches and wizards. Some shy introvert was not who he was looking for.
While Belinda was out front, Zach sent Owls to the references she had given him. Because his was a registered company, Gringotts sent information back by return Owl. Belinda's balance didn't really amount to much but it was in the black. Zach liked that knowing she had been laid low without a position. Resourceful was the word that came to his mind. Zach had made up his mind. Unless the references came back with bad responses, he would give Belinda a chance.
Zach went out front, spoke a few words to Gordon then asked Belinda to accompany him to his office where he explained that he had already received her financial information and sent out additional reference requests. Belinda was fine with it all.
"So, what do you think of Magical Mobiles?"
"I like it. Mobiles are such an important discovery." She gushed. "Gordon is fantastic. I've learned a great deal from him in the short time I was out front. I believe I'd be an asset to the team."
After a few probing questions to see if she had really been paying attention, Zach was sure he wanted Belinda as a part of his staff. He ended the interview telling her he would contact her after the references came back. Belinda was fine with that as well. She left the shop with a wide smile on her face.
Zach went over the information in the file one last time before calling Gordon to the back to share his impressions.
After speaking to Gordon who had given Belinda high marks, Zach sent a detailed text to Draco and Hermione thanking them for looking out for Magical Mobiles. After that, he got busy setting up a plan of action for his business.
/
Mona was already at her desk when Geraldine, Joyce, Agatha and Darnella filed in. Normally, there was an air of congeniality when The Coven met unless something heinous was afoot. Today, the air was neither congenial nor heinous feeling. The atmosphere couldn't be defined. Then Mona spoke.
"Good morning ladies. May I first say there isn't any need for the long faces. The subject revolves around only me.'
Darnella and Geraldine began fidgeting in their chair hoping this wasn't some bullshite where Mona hands in her resignation.
Mona noticed the shuffling around and decided to get right to the point. "I have become involved with Wesley Corwin. We have had a discussion and want to pursue a relationship."
More shuffling.
Joyce started to speak but Mona held up a hand.
"We all know the rules. The Leader of The Coven may have a lover, paramour or one-offs of her choice. However, she is not allowed a relationship. I have asked you here….."
Geraldine stepped in. "Before you say or do something that cannot be undone, let me have my say."
Mona sat resolute as Darnella, Agnes, and Joyce nodded at Geraldine.
"We are well aware of the rules of fraternization Mona. We wrote them. It's my suggestion as a longstanding member of this Coven, that today we vote to revisit those rules and adjust them as necessary."
Mona hadn't ever been an emotional witch, but as she listened to Geraldine speak it became hard to keep the tears from forming in her eyes. Her witches were stopping her from resigning.
"Vote by voice. 1. Shall we revisit Coven rules and update them as necessary?"
Geraldine voted first: "It's yes for me."
Darnella voted: "Yes for me."
Agnes voted: "Yes."
Joyce voted: "I vote yes as well."
They all turned to Mona.
"We don't have to do this. Coven rules…."
Agnes wasn't trying to hear excuses. "We are waiting for your response Mona. This isn't just about you. It's about us as well."
Mona smiled at all her witches. "Alright then. I vote yes. Geraldine, you will run the meeting."
Geraldine stood. "Excellent."
For the next two hours, The witches of The Coven discussed and updated their rules notating as they went along. When all was done, it became optional that Leader of The Coven resign her position if she chose to make a life with a wizard. She could stay or go as she chose. A few additional updates were made, but the most important rule had been resolved.
Mona was grateful for the support and told them so. She also stated that should life events get in the way of her leadership, she would pass the baton on. The witches of the Coven nodded in agreement.
"Just in case, we'll all study up." Darnella joked.
Everyone laughed. With that, Mona hugged one after the other before asking for suggestions about what should be done about Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy.
Joyce had a quick answer.
"As loathe as we are to use certain spells on civilians, I believe you should rearrange certain memories for Miss Granger and Mr. Malfoy. Instead of them having met you-us the way they did, fix it so it appears they met you at some function or the shops or…"
Mona grinned. "….Or, fix it so they haven't met me-us at all. I get the gist of it Joyce. That's brilliant. Now all I have to do is get Hermione and Draco together. Never mind. That was a silly statement. I'll just visit their flat. Again, thank you for the support. I might have to step out for a bit, but I will return. I'll keep you all informed.
So, it was done. Nothing had really changed for the witches of the Coven, but everything had changed.
Mona had her answer about what to do with Hermione and Draco. They would be very surprised when she turned up at their door. Then Mona thought about it. She didn't have to show up at their flat if she could catch them separately. Drawing her wand, Mona called out Point Me Personal Draco Malfoy. Her wand showed Draco was in his office. Good. She had to try Hermione twice before finding her in Reading….with Wesley. Mona chastised herself. Of course Hermione was with Wesley. They were partners.
"No problem. I'll start with Mr. Malfoy."
With one turn, Mona was inside Malfoy Investments under her cloaking spell. It had taken all of five minutes to correct Draco's memories. When Mona left, no one was the wiser that their owner, president and CEO had had his memories corrected.
Mona wasn't able to get to Hermione at the moment, but she did get to correct Hermione's memories later that afternoon.
/
Sitting at his desk, Draco was feeling a bit out of it and was ready to go have a tea when his mobile pinged. Text coming in.
{SENDER}: Roscoe
{RECIPIENT}: Draco
I've spoken to Patrick. He is thrilled to have won an "award" which includes, a trip to the barber, a new suit of clothes and a night on the town complete with dinner. He wouldn't stop gushing. It was almost embarrassing. I believe his being pampered will increase his creative juices. We are on our way.
Draco smiled as he waved his wand to make the cup of tea. Roscoe deserved any commission his hard work brought about. His other two Directors would need to catch up.
/
It was the end of the workday. Wesley had left for the evening. Hermione was still finishing up a few notes when she looked up to see Mona Russell in her doorway. She stood.
"Mona! Is everything okay? Is Professor McG….?"
"Silencio!"
From there, Mona corrected Hermione's memories which now had her meeting Mona and the other witches at some vague function in the past. Basically, the same memories she had left in Draco's head. Her work was done.
/
Hermione was moving her head from side to side to clear her head.
"Merlin! I think I'm working too hard."
Laughing at herself, she finished up her notes. A few minutes later, she was landing in front of The Pet Menagerie to have a look at Blue's brother or sister.