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mastermindmiko · 7 months

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Drunk (Part 3)

Pairing: George Weasley + OC

Word count: 3416

Summary: the DA begins and a series of unfortunate events unfold

Part 4

Hey! if you think this didn't completely suck, then feel free to check out my masterlist.

Juliette was walking with Fred Weasley when they came to the Room of Requirement for their first lesson. George had already gone there prior with Lee, he had been avoiding her; despite their friendly encounter in Hogshead.

“Are you excited, Snidget?” Fred asked, slightly hopping from what she assumed is excitement; from breaking the rules not the lesson part.

“No, not really.” She replied blatantly. “It’s going to be a lesson not a party.”

He walked backwards with his face towards Juliette's. “Well of course it’s a lesson, Little Detective-” Fred said, as Juliette scolded George in her mind for telling Fred his new nickname. She liked Snidget but could not stand little detective, or anything detective related.

“But it’s a lesson that involves breaking the rules, so I’m excited.” He continued. They started walking the stairs to the seventh floor, and they reached a certain corridor. Fred then started pacing in front of a wall.

“Fred, are you alright?” Juliette asked him from a far distance, looking at him distrustfully. “Are you pranking me? You said that the lesson was here-”

“Calm down, Detective. I need to focus.” Fred said, not sparing her a glance. There was a door that suddenly appeared, Juliette's mouth opened as she stared at the weird looking door.

Fred moved next to her and placed his index finger under her chin and closed her mouth for her; and then grabbed her hand and led her inside the Room of Requirement.

When they entered Fred was quick to go stand next to George and Lee. Juliette went to stand beside Neville who was reading the book that she gave him.

“What about Dumbledore’s army?” Ginny Weasley asked.

There were murmurs of agreement in the room; Juliette thought of how much trouble she would be in if anyone found out that she was in this place.

Hermione Granger then came up to her with a paper and said, “Juliette you have to put your name here, even if you don’t want to attend the lessons; you have to just to make sure you don’t snitch.”

Juliette nodded and took the pen that Granger had offered her and wrote her name. “How would you know, If I told anyone?”

“We’ll know.”

“Okay?” Juliette replied, staring weirdly at the girl wondering exactly what would happen to her, and if she just joined a fucking cult. Granger walked away as all the people in the room started to do the instructions that Potter told them to do.

The lesson went smoothly, and since Juliette was already great at DADA she had no problem with anything that they did. She practiced with Neville the entire lesson helping him through the things that he couldn’t do. He wanted to be her partner because no one else wanted to use spells against a Slytherin.

“Neville, is there something wrong with your wand?” Juliette asked, as people were starting to exit the room.

Neville flushed at the comment and said, looking at the floor, “no, It’s just- It’s my dad’s wand. That’s why it doesn’t work well for me; but I s-still want to use it.”

She nodded at his statement, knowing very well what happened to the Longbottoms. Considering that Bellatrix is Draco’s Aunt. Juliette muttered a small ‘sorry’ and awkwardly hugged Neville.

They didn’t know each other at all, but she wanted to become his friend; considering they both practically didn’t have families.

Neville walked through the door and Juliette found George still standing in the middle of the room. She walked up to him and stood behind him. She stood on her tiptoes and tapped him on the shoulder, then rested her feet back on the ground when he turned around to face her.

“Hi.” She said in a small voice, looking up at him. Damn all these people, when will I find someone whose fucking shorter than me, she thought.

“Hey.” He replied. “Did you like the first lesson?”

“Yeah.” she stated, she put her hands in the pockets of her robe and added “I got partnered up with Neville.”

“Is he a good person to practice with?” He questioned.

“Yeah.” She said, “Are you free, right now?”

“Can’t say I have anything to do.” He said, a smile slowly starting to appear on his face.

“Can you show me the kitchens? You said you would on the first day, but uh I guess we got side tracked.” She really hoped that he would say yes, he was her friend; and she enjoyed his company. She also enjoyed the fluttery feeling she would get when she was around him, she didn't however know what it meant.

“Yeah okay.” He said, with his smile now apparent.

They walked outside the room and they started to converse. “How did that date go?” George asked, somewhat meekly.

“oh the one with Draco, It wasn’t really a date-date.” She said, while tilting her head from side to side at the last part.

“What do you mean?” he asked, now looking at her.

“Well, um it was my parents’ doing. They have been wanting us to get together for an insanely large amount of time, they gave me a letter forcing me to go out with him. We tried before the whole dating thing, after the yule ball; we kissed that night and we tried dating for a while. It just didn’t work out for me.”

“Okay, but did it work out for him?” He asked suspiciously, when he saw her raised eyebrow; he continued to explain. “ You said it didn’t work out for you, but what if he still wants to date you because from what I see I think he likes you, a lot.”

As soon as he finished explaining she put her hands in front of her and started to wave them frantically while saying, “no, no, no, no. He would’ve said something, and he hasn’t so he doesn’t like me like that.”

“If you say so.” George replied in a sing-songy voice, teasing her. She gave him a playful push with her shoulder, and he let out a chuckle at the action.

They reached a place, which Juliette recognized as the Hufflepuff common room. Is the kitchen in the common room? She thought. Then George walked past the common room and stood in front of a portrait, then he stood in front of it and made jazz hands saying “voila!”

Juliette stepped near George, placed his hands down and placed the back of her hand on his forehead. “I’ll tell Fred to go easy on you. You must’ve hit your head from one of those stupefies.”

He scoffed and put her hand down and then he started tickling the pear. “Um George, do I need to get madame pomfre-” She cut herself off when the portrait started opening, and it revealed as she put it in her head ‘the fucking kitchen, with a shit ton of enslaved house elves.’

He laughed at her reaction and took her hand and started leading her inside.

»»————-　　————-««

As George led her inside, he greeted a bunch of house elves. He told one of the house elves to bring them two treacle tarts because he found out it was her favorite. He sat down on one of the counters and patted the space beside him for her to sit down.

All the counters were filled with plates, dishes and food; so there was barely any space for them to sit, which meant that they would have to be close to each other. Not that George minded. The house elf brought them two plates of tarts, and handed them to George. Who then handed one of the plates to Juliette.

Her face lit up at the tart. Merlin! She really does love treacle tarts, he thought. She took a large bite and then looked at him and said “it’s my favorite.”

He chuckled at the comment and said “I know you practically eat the entire Slytherin table’s tarts every night” As soon as he said it he started overthinking, he just admitted that he watches her every night. He hoped that she didn’t notice and that if she did that she now does not find him a creep.

He seemed safe, considering that she is so preoccupied with the tart. He let out a relieved breath, and started eating his own tart. He felt guilty that he was avoiding her for the past week, he was heartbroken when she was on a date with Malfoy; that it physically hurt him to be near her and think about that.

As she took another bite he said “did you know that harry is going to teach us patronuses?”

His sentence made her stop eating and look at him wide eyed “really?! I tried to make one once in my third year and it didn’t work.”

“Yeah, he said he will; after Christmas.” He added, enjoying the way her eyes sparkle at the thought.

After they finished their tarts and Juliette ordered two more, they started talking. “Did you know I was almost sorted into Gryffindor?” George looked up from his now empty plate at her statement, and motioned for her with his hand to continue. “Well I wasn’t really a hat stall, It was so sure on Gryffindor. It said I had ambition but not nearly enough for me to be a Slytherin, but I picked to go there.”

“Why?”

“Probably because of the threats I received from my parents about the sorting.” she let out a humorless chuckle at the statement and continued “I was so surprised that it was so keen that I’m a Gryffindor, at the time I didn’t know I was adopted so it was confusing-”

“Wait, you're adopted!” George cut her off, She didn’t look like any of her family but there were still slight similarities; her personality was way more different. Tristan is in the same year as him so he knew that their personalities couldn’t be anymore different.

When he looked at her again he realized that it was actually more believable to know that she’s adopted once you knew the fact. She is a brunette while her entire family has dark black hair, she has brown eyes and her brother has blue eyes. From the photos he saw in the classrooms of her parents they both had blue eyes, and -as he randomly learned from Hermione- it was impossible for two people with blue eyes to have a child with brown eyes.

“I can actually see it now.” He said and she let out a small giggle. “Do you know who your real parents are?”

“No actually, they refuse to tell me anything other than that they are pure-bloods.”

“Does anyone else know that?” When she shook her head at his question he couldn’t help but feel slightly special that he was the only one that knew this important fact about her other than her brother, he also felt butterflies in his stomach knowing that she trusts him enough to tell him this.

They had been friends for almost two years but they never talked about anything deep. Mostly just quidditch, pranks and making fun of teachers. “Does Malfoy know?”

She shook her head, and said “I’m afraid to tell him, he’s my closest friend and the oldest. I’m just scared that if I’m from a ‘blood-traitors’ family he would stop being friends with me” She made air quotes while saying the word blood traitors.

He put a supporting hand on her shoulder and a sympathetic smile on his lips, saying “if he’s really your friend he wouldn’t care, and with the way he’s crushing on you; I doubt that that would stop him.” He ended with a pained smile on his face from saying the second part.

“He doesn’t like me.”

He didn’t contradict her and changed the subject, everyone could see that he liked and maybe even loved her. It was almost sometimes painfully obvious, he liked her. He wondered if his feelings were also painfully obvious.

⤹⋆⸙͎۪۫｡˚۰˚☽˚⁀➷｡˚⸙͎۪۫⋆

Juliette is now in Draco’s dorm, he had transfigured for himself a couch out of many cardboard boxes, and it was surprisingly comfortable. She was curled up next to him on the couch and he had his arms around her while reading her a story. She was not paying attention to the story and was instead thinking of what her Patronus could be.

“What do you think my Patronus would be?” She asked out of the blue.

He looked at her then looked at the book then looked at her again with his mouth slightly opened “Patronus? Are you even listening to a word I’m saying?”

“No.” she replied bluntly, leaving the warmth of his body as she turned to look at him. “What would my Patronus be?”

He shut his mouth as he replied a second without thinking “the same as mine.”

“What do you mean the same as yours?” Juliette inquired looking at him skeptically.

“Juliette I told you that we’re soulmates, and people who have the same Patronus are like connected or something.” He replied in a matter of a factly tone.

She didn’t bother correcting him as she thought about the matter even more and said “well what do you think that might be?”

“Considering both our personalities it has to be something fierce, mine is a dragon. Fucking ironic considering my name but it’s cool.” He replied seemingly uninterested in the topic.

She punched him slightly in the shoulder and said accusingly “you made a Patronus without telling me, you know how much I wanted to conjure one.”

“Yeah I did, a little after the yule ball. Nothing important.” He answered shortly with a light blush on his cheeks.

She dismissed the action not wanting to prove George's theory right, and she laid back on his chest hearing his heartbeat faster slightly. “Continue reading.”

She could practically feel him roll his eyes, and say “only if you focus this time.”

She nodded her head and he sighed at her action. He started reading once again, and she contradicted his condition and fell asleep; but she had a feeling that he wouldn’t mind it.

»»————-　　————-««

George is now sitting in the great hall, eating lunch. Fred and Lee were talking about quidditch and Ron, Harry and Hermione were talking about the DA; he was most occupied with Juliette wearing her hair down today. She looks beautiful, well beautifuler, he thought.

His thoughts were interrupted by a solemn looking McGonagall and professor Snape heading to take to Tristan. He sees Draco hold Juliette closer and whispering -what he assumes- reassuring things in her ear. He wishes that he was the one comforting her right now, but then he watches Snape head to Juliette and then he gets worried.

Juliette’s face immediately turns cold as Snape finishes talking to her. She then heads out of the great hall, his eyes search for Tristan and he finds him crying.

The whispers start and they start from Tristan's friends and then all over the Slytherin table to the other tables until they reached George.

Her parents died.

⤹⋆⸙͎۪۫｡˚۰˚☽˚⁀➷｡˚⸙͎۪۫⋆

It’s been two days since Snape delivered the news extremely unsympathetically. Juliette has not shed a single tear, whether she’s still in shook or denial or if she simply does not give a fuck about Henry and Christina she doesn’t know.

She is not worried for Tristan, he shed a few tears but that's it. He was seventeen a legal adult in the wizarding world and would just inherit all his parents fortune and he has a secure position in the ministry.

Juliette however did not know what to do, since they were not her parents they don’t owe her anything; and of course they didn’t leave her a thing in their will. She still has two years of Hogwarts left, she has nowhere to go.

Dumbledore, probably sensing this, called her to his office today. She was heading to the office, she was excused from classes this week so no one had seen her since the great hall. Draco had tried to enter multiple times but she just dismisses him.

There was surprisingly no password to his office when she tried to enter. When she entered there was one chair in front of his desk presumably set up for her or any visitor, she sat on that chair after Dumbledore had motioned for her to sit on it.

“Miss lore, I will be making this short for you; and this might come as a shock but you’re adopted.”

She resisted the urge to roll her eyes, if she hadn’t known that by now; that would’ve been a terrible way for anyone to find that out. “I know.”

“Oh well that makes it much easier for me. Well Miss Lore, Henry and Christina Lore died on their trip which was actually a death eater mission. The aurors caught them and instead of being caught they killed themselves, we do not know why they did that yet. Presumably to not have to go through the effects of veritaserum; the ministry still does not believe in Voldemort’s returning so there will be no further discussion of the matter.

The next thing you need to know is that your God Father is really happy to take you in.”

Her mind blocked out for one second thinking that she did have someone and she wouldn’t spend the next years alone and a jolt of happiness shot through her; and then a course of anger. Her godfather was there before, why didn’t he just take her in at the beginning? She interrupted Dumbledore saying “May I just ask, who is my Godfather?”

“Sirius Black, as an old friend of Alice and Frank Longbottom, was happy to become your godfather. They were good friends during hogwarts-”

She interrupted Dumbledore once again saying in disbelief “Sirius Black the mass murderer! Alice and Frank Longbottom, what do they have to do with this?”

Her words were then interrupted by Neville Longbottom entering the office with Professor McGonagall. Her mind went into full understanding mode and a look of understanding took over her face and she said “oh fuck.”

“As I was saying-” Dumbledore continued as he summoned another chair with wandless and non-verbal magic and motioned for Neville to come sit on that chair. “Sirius Black is your GodFather and will be taking you in, while your brother Neville will see you every few days; his and your grandmother insisted that he stays with her, as she just found out you existed two days ago.”

Probably noticing the looks on both of the kids’ faces he stopped talking and said apologetically “Oh you mustn't have known all that. I just assumed that since you knew you were adopted you knew this as well.”

Professor McGonagall face palmed behind Juliette and Neville, and said “you can’t just assume things albus they must be having a hard time taking this all in the first place, there is no need for your foolishness and assumptions in this matter!”

Juliette turned around to professor McGonagall and said with a smirk “pop off Minnie!” She then heard a chain of muttering and fumbling, she only caught a few sentences like

“how did she?”

“She really is his god child.”

“She never even met him!”

Juliette ignored her weird statements not getting what Sirius has to do with this and continued to listen to Dumbledore as he said

“Sorry Minerva. Well here’s the floo powder you’ll be heading to grimmauld place 12 and everything will be explained there.” Dumbledore said urging the two of them out of the chairs and over to the fireplace and handed them the floo powder, he added “say Grimmauld Place 12, and drop the floo powder.”

Juliette felt stupid from being treated like this and from her brain’s inability of taking all this information but she nonetheless did as she was told, and so was Neville.

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nami-writes · 8 months

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Seek, And Ye Shall Find - Harry Potter

[ 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 ]

content warnings: suicidal ideation, panic attack

three kings.

It's just Quidditch. That's why Harry's looking so intently for him. It’s just because of Quidditch.

That’s what he tells himself, at least.

In reality, there was something new that night. Something good. He saw a change in Malfoy, saw a part of him he’d never known could exist before, and he needs to see it again. He needs to remember what it's like to see Malfoy as a person and not a rival. Someone to play with rather than against, even when battling for the Snitch.

Malfoy's walls falling let Harry's fall too, further than he thought they could go, and for once it was less about the game and more about the moment. No rules to follow, no crowd to please— just him and Draco, and a passion for Quidditch that was never about being the Chosen One or a Malfoy.

So it is about Quidditch, really. It's not a lie. It's just an easier truth to tell.

—

Christmas break is coming up, and for the first time since fourth year, Harry has turned down Ron’s offer to let him stay with the Weasleys.

“What? Really?” He reacts with genuine surprise at first, but it quickly turns to cautious suspicion. “This isn't about Malfoy, is it?”

“Harry, please don't tell me you're going to spend Christmas break trying to talk to that prick,” Hermione sighs. “You've wasted enough of your time on him already.”

“It's not a waste,” he says, but for good measure, adds, “And besides, I'm not. The winter Quidditch season starts soon after break ends and I want to practice on the pitch.”

She raises an eyebrow. “All break?”

“Yeah.” She knows, and she knows that he knows. “I gotta be ready. At least I won't be missing class time to do it.”

That gets her. “I guess.” And her reluctant agreement is what permits Ron to allow it too.

“Fine, fine. That's alright, then,” Ron gives in. “Just remember you're always welcome at my place, yeah?”

“Course,” Harry smiles. “Say happy Christmas to your mum and your brothers and Ginny for me. I'll see you both after break.”

—

Malfoy doesn't go home for Christmas break.

Harry knows this because the school is barren, save for a number of Slytherins and a handful of other students with families left broken by the war, and every once in a while he'll spot a distinct platinum-blond in the corner of his eye that disappears before he can turn around.

—

It's Christmas Day, and it seems the Slytherins are throwing a party in the dining hall. Shocking enough by itself, but especially so because Harry watches students from other Houses walk in and join too. No yelling, no infighting, nobody getting kicked out. Just a Christmas party for all the kids who don't have a Christmas to go home to.

Harry wants to go in too. This is the kind of thing he always wished to have as a kid, a Christmas he wanted to attend because it was for no reason but to celebrate Christmas. No Dudley and no Dursleys. But he can't bring himself to walk through the doors when he knows there's someone else who could benefit more.

He has a Christmas at Ron’s that he could go to anytime. But Malfoy has no Christmas at all.

Luckily for Harry, it's not so hard to find the only student with green robes and platinum-blond hair crying at the top of the Astronomy Tower.

“You're back,” he says as he reaches the end of the stairs. “I haven't seen you here in a while.”

Malfoy quiets his crying down to sniffles and shaky breaths but he doesn't move from where he stands at the guardrail.

“The Slytherins are throwing a Christmas party,” Harry continues. “You should come.”

He wants to see the other Malfoy again, wants everyone else to see him the way he once did. But Malfoy tears his worn Slytherin robes off and tosses them over the edge. The red and gold neckband of a tie peeks out from underneath his shirt collar. “I'm not a bloody Slytherin.”

“So you're a Gryffindor now, then?” he says.

“I'm not a bloody Gryffindor!”

His voice cracks hard that time and Harry starts towards him. “Well, whether you're a Ravenclaw or a Hufflepuff, they're letting anyone join. Not just Slytherins. So you can come.”

“Take another step towards me and I'm following my robes over the edge.”

Oh.

That's what this is.

Bloody hell.

“That's why you like coming up here?” Harry frowns, but stops in his tracks. “Because you want to jump off?”

“You don't know anything about me,” he scowls. “I didn't want to jump until you came along. All I wanted to do was remind myself I could.”

“Yeah? Well, you watched me jump from here last time you let me have anything to do with you. If you jump, I'm coming after you.”

Malfoy stares down at the ground, as if contemplating this threat. “You won't make it. What we did last time won’t work without my broom.”

“I'll take that chance.”

Maybe Harry’s too-stubborn insistence to stop him or die trying finally gets through his head. Maybe he really is a Slytherin, too ambitious but not quite stubborn enough to follow it to the end. Either way, he takes one step away from the guardrail, his legs so shaky he can barely remain standing.

Harry rushes to him, hesitates to reach out to stabilize him but does it anyway when Malfoy clearly won't. And when Harry breaks that tension, that fear of contact, Malfoy grabs onto his arm with a death grip and suddenly Harry understands how real Malfoy is too. From where they stand on the deck, Harry leads him back inside the tower, where he collapses to his knees.

“Fuck,” Malfoy breathes, hands shaking vigorously, “bloody hell, fuck fuck fuck.”

He scrambles to loosen and pull his Gryffindor necktie off, unbuttons the top of his dress shirt, and swallows air like he can’t possibly get enough. Harry carefully lowers himself to the floor too but doesn't touch Malfoy again. He needs space.

“I can't even fucking kill myself right,” he chokes out. “I don't know how I got re-sorted into Gryffindor.”

“It took courage to ask in the first place.” Nobody would've expected Draco Malfoy to ask to be re-sorted. And in front of the entire year, getting re-sorted into the House he'd rivaled for seven years— not even Harry knows how he could handle that. Though he supposes that's why they're up here in the first place. “Why did you ask, by the way? To be re-sorted?”

“Because Slytherin doesn't want me,” he says, “and I hoped that any other House would.” He laughs, a dry, bitter laugh. “Guess I was wrong.”

“I want you,” Harry says too quickly to think. “Alive. Even if I'm not one of the Houses.”

Malfoy scoffs, unimpressed. “Then you’d be the first.”

—

They don’t go to the Slytherin Christmas party. Instead, Harry coaxes him with much resistance to come with him down to the Gryffindor common room. A party with the entire remainder of the school probably isn't such a good idea right now but at the very least, it must’ve drawn the other Gryffindors from Gryffindor Tower.

“This is a bad idea, Potter,” Malfoy says quietly. He turns every corner with reluctance, eyes darting around searching for potential witnesses to… Harry isn’t sure what; his existence? His presence? Is this how he navigates the school all the time?

“Would you rather go to the Christmas party? Or run off to wherever you go when you’re not in class?”

“I’d rather be besting you at Quidditch again.”

“That was one time, and you’ve been to the Quidditch pitch plenty of times,” Harry remarks. “Have you ever even been in the Gryffindor common room? Or Gryffindor Tower?”

Malfoy shrugs. “Never had a reason to.”

“Not even to sleep?”

“Why would I want to sleep with Gryffindors?”

“Because you are one?”

He gets quiet at that. Harry almost apologizes— maybe he crossed a line. But Malfoy shakes it off. “No, I’m not.”

Harry shrugs this time. “If you say so.”

He takes them to the Fat Lady and— after dodging nagging motherly questions about who Malfoy is, why has she never seen him before, where are all the other Gryffindors, why don’t they join them— she finally lets them in.

“It’s… cozy,” Malfoy notes after he’s determined that they are, in fact, alone. “I'm not sure what else I expected from the Gryffindor common room.”

“Yes, I do think that the Slytherin common room would be particularly cold and gloomy compared to this,” he teases. And to his surprise, Malfoy actually cracks a barely-amused smile.

“I guess.”

Harry gives him a moment to take in his surroundings. The sight of Malfoy holding his green Slytherin robes in the red Gryffindor common room is foreign, like he doesn’t belong there. Malfoy himself doesn’t seem to feel like he belongs there, stiff and awkward where he stands with no indication of any intent to move further in. So Harry takes the initiative and plops down in one of the armchairs on either side of a chess table.

He raises the black king on his side. “Play me?”

The corner of Malfoy’s mouth quirks up. “Don’t test me. I’m brilliant at chess too.”

“I’m not, but I did once win a round with giant living chess pieces that almost killed Ron,” Harry grins.

“The Weasel almost got killed by a chess piece?” Malfoy asks, eyebrow raised with intrigue. “Now you’ve got me.”

Malfoy sits, robes thrown across the back of his armchair, and makes the first move.

#hp #hp fanfic #fanfic #writing #hp harry #hp draco #cw suicidal ideation #cw panic attack #LOVE this chapter title #three kings!! chess!! prodigies!! christmas!!#hehehehe

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beebox-illustrations · 2 years

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DAy 8 of iNktObER *sigh* ‚watch‘

The muggles are watching Draco 👀 respect Harrys list

Have a nice week 🐝🌻

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papillon-mechant · 3 years

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broken rules pt. 2| f.w. x reader

pt 1

word count: 2476

summary: Y/n and Fred have been fwb for a long time, and y/n broke the number one rule

warnings: smut, cursing, unprotected sex (dont to that), jealous freddie

a/n: you guys wanted a happy ending :) although i may have gotten a little carried away lol

It’s been three weeks since y/n let her feelings for Fred slip, and it’s safe to say that both of them were miserable without the other. The night he made her leave, Fred wanted nothing more than to chase after the heartbroken girl, but he couldn’t. Fred didn’t think he deserved her love. He had used her, played with her feelings, he even purposely brought Angelina around more often because he saw the effect it had on her. But he never thought it was because she had feelings, he thought she just didn’t like Angelina. He never meant to hurt her, but when she confessed her love, he froze. Because he felt the same. But he’s never been in a serious relationship, and the idea scared the red head more than he’d like to admit.

As for y/n, she was broken. In the weeks after Fred kicked her out, she had only gone to her classes a few times and almost never went to meals. She spent most of her time locked in her room, clutching a shirt she had stolen when Fred was sleeping. She wasn’t hurt because he didn’t feel the same, she was hurt because of the way he acted. He acted as if she was a monster for loving him, for breaking their rules. Y/n avoided Fred every chance she got. She changed her routes to her classes so she wouldn’t run into him, she switched partners in DADA so she wouldn’t have to endure the pain of working with him every class, she even stopped speaking to George, who was a good friend of hers, because she didn’t want to risk the chance of Fred showing up.

“Hello Earth to y/n.” Pansy snaps her fingers, getting y/n’s attention. She hadn’t even realized how zoned out she was until she looked at the faces of the friends she was sitting with. They were all staring at her, some with concerned expressions, some laughing at the dazed expression that was on her face. Pansy follows her line of sight, ending at the tall red haired boy seated at the gryffindor table, and the girl sitting next to him. Fred was speaking enthusiastically with friends, arm resting loosely on Angelina’s shoulder.

“Y/n you have to get over it babe, he isn’t even worth it.” Pansy gives her a sympathetic smile, feeling bad for the heartbroken girl. Being y/n’s roommate, she witnessed firsthand how the situation affected her. She saw each day how the girl cried herself to sleep, how she put on fake smiles everyday. It angered her, because y/n was such a sweet girl and she didn’t deserve to be treated this way.

“Yeah,” y/n sighs, no longer able to stand the sight in front of her, “I’m gonna go back to the dorm, I’ll catch up with you guys later.” She stands up and gathers her things, leaving the great hall without another word. On her way to her dorm, y/n felt her throat burn as she tried her best to hold back her tears. She made it a personal goal to never let others see her upset. Sadness was a sign of weakness, and she is not weak.

Later that night, y/n is seated on her bed in nothing but Fred’s shirt, arguing with Pansy over whether or not she will attend the party Draco Malfoy was throwing tonight. It was the last thing she wanted to do. But Pansy wouldn’t let up, and eventually the two ended up in the Slytherin common room, surrounded by their intoxicated peers. Y/n stands in a corner, nursing the drink that Pansy had handed her and watching the party unfold. She unconsciously scans the room for the familiar mop of orange hair, eyes finally settling on the boy across the room. He was seated on the couch, speaking with George. Hanging off his arm was once again the girl that y/n had grown to hate. Almost as if she could sense y/n’s eyes on her, Angelina lifts her head, making eye contact. A sinister smirk grows on her face as she tugs on Fred’s sleeve, gaining his attention and whispering something in his ear before dragging him to the dance floor. Y/n watches intently as Angelina brings Fred’s hands to her waist and sways her hips to the beat of the music, practically grinding against his hips. Y/n feels jealousy pool in the pit of her stomach as she watches Fred grip tightly at Angelina’s hips the same way he used to hold hers. Without another thought, she downs the drink in her hand and makes her way over to the identical redhead across the room.

“Hi Georgie.” She greets the boy, catching him by surprise and plopping herself onto his lap. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him into a hug and glancing at the boy on the dance floor. He’s not dancing anymore. Instead, he stands still behind a still moving Angelina, narrowed eyes trained on the girl on his brother’s lap.

“Well hello to you too y/n.” George chuckles, wrapping his arm around the girl’s waist to steady her on his lap. He wasn’t stupid, he knew why she was here. He had seen the way his brother looked at the girl when her head was turned, and frankly he thought Fred was an idiot for ruining what they had. He knew he loved her, but he also knew it would take a lot to get him to admit it.

“I think you’ve got the wrong twin sweetness.” He whispers in her ear, causing her to involuntarily shiver at the pet name. The drinks were laced with magic, making one feel like the equivalent to three, so it was safe to say y/n was quite intoxicated. In her mind, it was a bit difficult to differentiate between the two boys. She knew she was seated on George's lap, but he looked so much like Fred, it caused a conflict in her fuzzy mind. Running her fingers through his hair, y/n pulls George’s head closer to hers, brushing their noses together.

“Has anyone ever told you how pretty you are Georgie?” She whispers, her lips lightly grazing his as she speaks. She knew this was wrong, but she couldn’t seem to stop her body from moving. She closes the gap between them, kissing the redhead with more passion than she meant to. George couldn’t help but kiss back, his brain lying in the same fuzz as hers. He moves his hands up her waist, squeezing roughly and coaxing a small whimper out of her. Suddenly, y/n feels her body being pulled away from the boy under her, catching her by surprise. She turns to face the culprit, face flushing in embarrassment when she realizes who it is. Fred stands in front of her, watching her with a furious look in his eyes.

“Fred I-” Y/n is cut off by a small shriek as Fred throws her over his shoulder, not speaking a single word as he exits the Slytherin Common room and makes his way back to his dorm.

“Fred put me down!” Y/n screams, landing blows on the tall boy’s back. She’s taken by surprise once again as Fred lands a harsh smack on her backside, causing her to jolt forward. She takes this as a warning, huffing loudly and stopping her movements all together. When they reach his dorm, Fred drops y/n on his bed, staring at her silently from across the room.

“Fred what the fuck, why am I here? Why did you take me away from the party? I was enjoying myself.”

“Yeah, it must have been a lot of fun shoving your tongue down my brother’s throat like a slut.” He spits, shooting her an angry glare. Y/n is taken aback by his harsh words, only ever hearing them during sex. She moves off the bed, standing directly in front of him with her arms crossed.

“Fuck you Fred!” She yells, shoving him into the wall, “You have no right to tell me who I can and cannot kiss.” Y/n was furious. How dare he kick her out, treat her like she was nothing for months, and then have the nerve to get angry when she shows any signs of moving on. It wasn’t fair.

“I stood there for months and didn’t say a single word when I saw you with Angelina. I kept my mouth shut. And need I remind you, you kicked me out Fred. You ending things with me. So you have no reason to be upset. You can’t keep taking it out on me every time you can’t handle the way you feel.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” He scoffs, leaning casually against the wall.

“I refuse to believe that you don’t feel anything when we’re together.” Y/n snaps. At this, he rolls his eyes and looks away, scoffing lightly. Coward.

“Believe whatever you want.” He chuckles emotionlessly. He's standing so far away, as if he couldn’t bear the thought of being close enough for her to touch him. His expression is unreadable, his lips are stuck in a tight line and his eyes are staring straight through her.

“I told you what this was from the beginning. Just fun, a stress relief, a good fuck. No. Feelings. Involved-”

“Then why did you come back!” She yells, slamming her fist into the wall next to her. He flinches at her sudden outburst and she can’t help but laugh at the thought of her scaring him.

“Why Freddie...why do you keep coming back?” His eyes widened at the use of his nickname, she hadn’t called him that in months.

“Every time you left me, you came back with some bullshit excuse just so you could hide the real reason why. The only reason you ever come back.”

“Yeah, and what’s that?” He asks, rolling his eyes. Y/n stares up at him with a mix of sadness and anger in her eyes and, taking a deep breath, she moves closer to him. With each step she takes, he backs away, and they continue the chase until his back hits the wall. She stands on her toes, bringing her face as close to his as she could get without touching him.

“Because you love me too Freddie.” She whispers, closing the gap and connecting their lips. Without a second of hesitation, Fred returns the kiss, hands taking their rightful place around her waist. He holds her tight, pulling her impossibly close as if she would disappear from his hands at any moment. After what feels like hours, they both come up for air, panting against each other’s lips. Wrapping his hands around the backs of her thighs, he squeezes lightly, signaling for her to jump. Fred places y/n on his bed once again, this time taking his time to lightly set her down, kissing his way down her neck in the process.

“Please Freddie.” She whines, bucking her hips trying to create some sort of friction to cool the fire between her legs.

“What do you want? Use your words love.” He rasps, already in the process of removing her clothes. He was rushing, wanting nothing more than to have her naked under him again. She was just as desperate, manicured nails clawing at the back of his shirt, silently begging him to take it off.

“Please, just fuck me already,” she whispers, lifting her hips to help him take off her last piece of restricting clothing, “I can’t wait anymore.” Fred wastes no time complying with her wishes, feeling just as desperate, if not more, than she was. He flips them over, laying back against the headboard and lines himself up at her dripping entrance. A sigh of pleasure and relief leaves both of their lips when she sits on his cock, her wet heat taking all of him perfectly. Fred’s hands instantly move to toy with her hard nipples, pinching and pulling on the swollen nubs, eliciting a string of pornographic moans from the girl on top of him. Fred watches her move expertly on his cock, entranced with the way her face contorts with pleasure. He was positive she was the most beautiful thing he’d ever seen.

“So fucking pretty on top of me.” He moans, shifting his position so that he was lying down fully, giving him a better angle to move his hips with hers. Y/n whines at the feeling of him inside her once again. She never gets tired of the way he seemed to reach places no one else ever did.

“Freddie, gonna cum.” She moans, trying her best to keep a steady rhythm with her hips. Fred notices her struggle and takes initiative, flipping her onto her back with his cock still inside her. He fucks her slowly, snapping his hips rough against hers. The room was filled with nothing but the sounds of skin against skin and the occasional moan from one of them. Fred removes the hand she had gripping her leg, intertwining his fingers with hers. Y/n gasps at the loving gesture, not used to this side of him. Using his free hand, he rubs light circles on her clit, sending her over the edge. Fred holds her flush against his chest as her back arches off the bed in pleasure, her cunt spasming around his cock.

“Fuck, so beautiful when you cum around my cock.” He groans, chasing his own release. Y/n pulls him in for another kiss, one slower and more passionate than any of the kisses they’ve shared before. Breaking the kiss, she stares Fred right in his eyes and finds him staring back at her with the most loving look in his eyes.

“Cum for me Freddie, show me how much you love me.” She whispers, lightly biting his ear. Fred gorans at her words that send him over the edge, stilling his hips against hers and Y/n moans at the feeling of Fred emptying himself inside of her. Fred takes a minute to come down from his high before lying on the bed and pulling y/n on top of his chest, keeping his soft cock warm inside her. They sit there in silence for what seems like forever, focusing on the sound of each other’s breathing. Fred uses his hand to trace shapes on the small of her back, causing y/n to let out a small sigh of content.

“I do love you, you know.” He whispers, hissing her lightly on the cheek. She smiles, burying her face into his neck and breathing in the scent of him.

“I know Freddie.”

#fred weasley fic #fred weasley angst #fred weasley smut #fred weasley x reader #fred weasley x reader smut #fred weasley x reader angst

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weelittleweasley · 3 years

Text

masquerade (d.m.)

prompt as requested by anon: draco malfoy was your rival in slytherin house. both of you ambitious, bold, and daring. as one of the few pureblood slytherin families left, you promised yourself that you would continue your lineage, but not with scum like malfoy. instead, you would meet a suitor at the annual masquerade ball hosted by the malfoys each year. but what if your prospective suitor is someone you didn’t expect...

pairing: draco malfoy x fem! pureblood slytherin reader

warnings: language

word count: 8.7k

author’s note: let’s say this takes place around 7th year (no voldy) right after the reader’s 18th birthday. also--i took the liberty of naming the reader’s parents just for sake of making things less confusing.

you guys...would you want a second part to this? i may have an idea for a sequel? depends on how you all like it, but this...kinda went hard ngl

here is a playlist that i found on spotify that works well with the fic! credits to owner!

Rivalry; nothing like it. It gave you a reason to work harder, faster, and stronger than your rival. You were taught at a very young age that you should never surrender to someone who tries to make you feel inferior. And you took that to heart throughout your time at Hogwarts. You fought wisely with your charisma and charm, earning you the highest marks at school. You were a prefect, one of the top five students in your graduating class, and you were already making plans for your future.

But that didn’t mean that there weren’t any challenges in your way. Many obstacles stood in your path of achieving greatness. One of those obstacles named Draco Malfoy. The two of you came from pureblood Slytherin families who had been fighting for power that dated back hundreds of years. That only meant that when you both entered Hogwarts in the same year, you had a rival to beat. But Draco wasn’t stupid. He knew how to keep up with you, sometimes surpassing you. Draco was also a prefect alongside you, one place higher than you in your class ranking, and not to mention, Professor Snape’s favorite student.

It drove you ballistic that no matter what you did, you couldn’t outsmart Malfoy. He was always one step ahead of you. He anticipated your every move as if he had studied you for years. But you had something on your side that Draco didn’t expect; divine feminine energy.

You would never fall for Malfoy, not in a million years. But that was exactly the point. Use what you have that Draco wants to your advantage. Your mother always told you that women had the energy of a thousand suns in their eyes and could burn anyone they wanted with just a stare. So that’s exactly what you did throughout Hogwarts. Burn Malfoy.

With just a look in the halls, you would set the boy on fire. With rage, with envy, with frustration, and with passion. You wanted no more but to see the boy fail. But failure wasn’t in Draco’s vocabulary. Needless to say, your time at Hogwarts became full of push and pull between the both of you. A rivalry of the ages.

It was exhausting, being tasked with rivalry at school, but you were thankful when winter break rolled around. You sat in your family’s manor house, the roaring fireplace in front of you as you read an alluring book. The crackling fire warmed up your chilly toes as a green velvet blanket rested over your shoulders. During break, you didn’t have to worry about Malfoy or his every move. You could enjoy yourself.

As you read, you can hear the footsteps of someone descending the stairs. “(Y/N), dear,” your mother’s voice calls out.

“In the drawing room, Mother!” you call back.

Soon enough, there your mother was, looking regal as ever as you smiled. Your mother was truly a force to be reckoned with. She stood in front of you, in a beautiful black gown, trimmed with gold and silver, your family crest embroidered above her left breast. Her hair was styled away from her face to reveal her youthful looking face. She was stunning to say the least. “I have news, darling,” she smiles, approaching you before taking a spot on the loveseat that you rested on.

You close your book and smile as you mother sits behind you, combing through your hair, something you always found relaxing. “I hope it’s good news, I could use some,” you tease her, earning a small giggle.

As she combs through your hair with her fingers, she speaks, “As you know, the annual masquerade ball occurs around this time of year.” You remembered watching your parents get ready for the ball as a child. You would sit next to your mother’s vanity and watch her delicately make up her face as her ladies’ maid did her hair. Your mother always wore a beautiful gown from the finest silk, adorned with jewels or lace or whatever she fancied. You remember your father told your mother she could get whatever she liked; your father wanted nothing but your mother to be satisfied. “The ball is open to any pureblood Slytherin who has reached the age of eighteen. And since you’ve have your eighteenth birthday not too long ago, you are eligible to attend,” you can hear the excitement in your mother’s voice. It had always been her dream to see you attend the ball. And yours to attend it.

You smile widely, “I’m delighted. We’ll need to contact the seamstress now if I want a dress in time.”

Chuckling, your mother places her hands on your shoulder. “Yes, yes, dear. But before we talk about what you are wearing, we must discuss the details,” she informs as you sigh. You just wanted to get to the fun part. “The masquerade ball is not just a party, but a tradition. The ball was made for young pureblood Slytherins to meet each other blindly and find a prospective partner for marriage,” you mother reveals as your heart stops.

A partner for marriage? You had just turned eighteen and now you had to think about a partner? You hadn’t even graduated from Hogwarts yet.

But before you can protest the thought of courtship, your mother adds, “It’s how your father and I met in fact. We had danced the whole night and at the end of the ball, he took off my mask and we realized that we knew each other already. He was my partner in my potion’s class at Hogwarts.” She smiles at the memory. “Now, I’m not saying you need to find a fiancé, but it would be nice to be open to it. It’s tradition.”

The thought of finding a fiancé at the ball made your mind reel and your heart race. Sure, the tradition was old, but there was something romantic about it. Especially since that’s how your parents found each other. You nod your head, “Of course, Mother.”

Your mother presses a kiss to the top of your head. She opens her mouth to speak, but instead you hear another voice. “There are some fine suitors attending the ball this year,” your father speaks. He walked into the room a teasing smile on his face as you roll your eyes. “Let’s not overwhelm our daughter with the prospect that she might find her future partner, shall we, Porpentina?” your father tells your mother.

She simply sighs, “Let’s not rule it out though, Samuel. Anything can happen.”

Your father walks over to the two of you, a handsome smile on his face as he shakes his head. Your father was the smartest man you’ve ever met. He always led with logic and had a rational brain. But when it came to you, your father was putty. He loved spoiling his only child, his daughter. “Anyway, I’m glad that you’ve decided to come to ball, my dear,” your father beams as your mother squeezes your shoulders. “I’ll let Lucius and Narcissa know,” he looks to your mother with a nod.

“Wait, Lucius and Narcissa?” you freeze. Malfoy’s. “Are they coming to the ball as well? Will Draco be in attendance?” you interrogate.

Your father chuckles, “Well, I would hope so since they host the ball every year, dearest.” You scoff and let your mouth fall open. Since when was your family alright with the Malfoy's? Last time you were aware, your families despised one another. “I know, it’s strange, but over the last few years, our families have been able to be more level headed with each other. Lucius is still a fucking prick, but he’s been more tame,” your father huffs, making you laugh a bit. “But yes, Draco will be at the ball.”

You immediately rise from your seat on the hardwood floor. “Then I’m not going,” you state as your mother stares at you confused. “You know how much I hate that pretentious, loathsome boy since I stepped foot in Hogwarts. He’s rude and spiteful and inconsiderate and vile. I refuse to voluntarily be in the same room as him whilst I am supposed to be enjoying winter break. I simply refuse.”

Springing to her feet, your mother tries to reason with you. “Think about it, darling. It’s a masquerade ball. You won’t even recognize Draco. He’ll be in costume as well as everyone else. You won’t even know who is who. It’ll be a night to remember, I promise you,” your mother speaks, rubbing your arms. “Besides, I already called the seamstress and she has a beautiful design that she has custom made for you,” she wiggles her brows.

The thought of attending the ball still did excite you. Live orchestral music, beautiful gowns, champagne in golden flutes. It all sounded so regal. How could you let Draco Malfoy stand in the way of your fun? Besides, the chances of you stumbling upon Draco were slim. Sighing, you surrender, “Alright, fine. But if I so much as smell Draco Malfoy, you won’t hear the end of it.”

---------

Meanwhile, Draco stood beside his mother as servants and maids and butlers ran through the Malfoy Manor, carrying fine china, silverware, champagne flutes, and the finest decorations from around the world to decorate the manor in time for the ball. To the common person, this would all be so fantastic to watch. People decorating the manor in golds and greens, preparing for the quickly approaching festivities. But to Draco, this was normal. All the glamor and the splendor was just another day.

Narcissa holds her son’s arm, linked with hers as she sighs, “Your first masquerade ball. You’ve grown up so quickly, my darling.” Narcissa smiles at her son inspecting his grown face. Where did her child go? All she saw was a fine man.

Draco smiles kindly at his gentle mother. “I’m not being shipped away, Mother. It’s just a ball,” he laughs, giving her hand a squeeze. “Besides, I don’t expect to find a potential wife at the ball like Father believes...” he trails off.

The thought of marriage made Draco’s stomach churn. It wasn’t like he had a choice. Lucius Malfoy expected Draco to find a wife and a wife soon. Even though the boy hadn’t graduated, Lucius wanted to know that the Malfoy name would continue on for generations to come. He needed to ensure that his boyish son found another pureblood and produced an heir to the Malfoy name.

Narcissa looks sadly at her son. She wanted nothing but the best for him, but also wanted the same as her husband. “Draco, dear, you know how important this ball is to your father and I. There are some perfectly sweet, beautiful girls in attendance to the ball tomorrow. What about Pansy Parkinson? Pureblood, Slytherin, comes from wealth,” Narcissa starts.

“What about her obnoxious personality or obsessive nature? Parkinson is a hard no,” Draco dismisses the notion. “Who else?”

Narcissa thinks, “The Greengrasses! Daphne will be in attendance since she just turned eighteen. Her younger sister still has a few more years before she can attend.”

Draco shakes his head, “Daphne is a good friend. It would be awkward.” Narcissa sighs and laughs lightly. “Anyone else or am I stuck with Pansy?”

Mrs. Malfoy stays quiet for a while before bringing up the next name, knowing how touchy it is for her son. “Well, I received news yesterday of another pureblood Slytherin who just turned eighteen recently who will be in attendance...” she trails off as Draco looks at his mother, intrigued and curious. “Miss (Y/L/N) will be coming...”

Draco’s face then contorts with disgust. “You invited my biggest rival to the ball?” he exclaims. “Mother, you know how I feel about her! Merlin, at this point let’s invite Potter and his friends to really spice things up shall we?” he scoffs sarcastically.

Narcissa starts, “Draco, please. I know how you feel about (Y/N), but she is a pureblood Slytherin. Her family has money and power and a title. Maybe if something happened between you tw-”

“Nothing will happen between (Y/N) and I, Mother. So don’t get your hopes up,” Draco cuts his mother off who sadly sighs. Draco monitors her sad expression before he feels guilty for his outburst. “I just cannot see myself getting past my feelings for her as they are now,” he reasons with his mother, squeezing her hand as she sadly smiles. “But I did hear that you invited some Beauxbatons to the ball,” he wiggles his eyebrows as Narcissa rolls her eyes.

-----------

Standing in your room in front of the mirror, your ladies’ maid tightened your corset as you sucked in a breath. “Too tight?” she asks, scared that she hurt her master’s child.

“No, Lottie, just fine,” you smile at her as she ties the strings to the corset before taking your gown off of its hanger. “Lottie, can I ask you a question?” you ask as she helps you step into the gown.

Lottie smiles, “Of course, my lady. What would you like to know?”

As Lottie shimmies the dress up your body, you speak, “When you met your husband, when did you know he was the right one for you? Was there a moment? Or something he said? Or was it love at first sight?”

You hold the dress up as Lottie makes her way to the back to zip it up. “It’s more of a feeling you get in your stomach, my lady. I knew my husband was the one because I felt like my stomach was doing flips and my head was reeling. There’s no feeling quite like it,” she tells you as you smile. Love was so complicated to you. You didn’t understand how it was supposed to work. You loved knowing that there were answers to almost every problem, but when it came to love, you were clueless of its answer. “Take a look, my lady.”

Looking into the mirror, you softly smile. The strapless gown was of emerald silk, hugging your chest beautiful as it came in at the waist as it cascaded down your long legs. It wasn’t puffy or poofy or full of tule. It was sleek and sexy and mature. Your hair was straightened, but pieces fell loosely in your face, framing it. Gold eyeshadow was swept across your eyelids and your lips wore a peachy pink gloss. It was perfect. “I love it,” you smile.

“You look simply stunning,” Lottie added. “Anyone would be lucky to have you as their wife, my lady.”

You smile at Lottie, “Thank you, Lottie. Could you call my mother in please?” She curtsies before leaving you in your room. Nervously, you pace the floor, anxious for tonight’s events. Were you really expected to find a suitor? Who was coming to the ball? Maybe someone from a different country? A bright, handsome wizard might sweep you off your feet and take you away. The thought made your heart race.

Interrupting your thoughts, you hear a knock on the door before your mother enters. “Darling,” she sighs as you laugh. “There are no words to describe the way you look.”

You beam, “Thank you, Mother. I feel good, but I’m nervous.” She walks closer to you, concern on her face. “What if there is no one there for me? Even worse, what if there is someone there for me and I miss them?”

She shakes her head, “You cannot think of those things. (Y/N), I raised to be confident, powerful, and smart. And that’s exactly what you are plus more. Anyone with a brain and eyes will see how brilliant you are. No need to fret.” You exhale as she smiles at you. “I came in here to give you one last thing before we go,” she says as she reveals a gorgeous gold mask, adorned with pearls, diamonds, and emeralds. “It was mine when I went to my first masquerade ball. The same mask I wore when I met your father when I was eighteen. I thought that it might bring you some luck,” she tells you.

Tears start to well up in your eyes before you hug your mother tightly. “Thank you,” you whisper as she holds onto you tightly. “Thank you so much, Mom.”

Your mother gives you a squeeze. “I’m your mother. It’s what I do,” she says. “Now let’s put this on you and get ready to go. The ball waits for no one.”

-------------

The ball was already bustling and it had just begun a mere twenty minutes ago. Women and ladies wore beautiful gowns varying of colors and textures, adorned with jewels and precious stones. Men wore suits and capes, perfectly tailored, all very clean cut. But everyone wore a mask to conceal their identity. Each mask beautiful and intricate in design. Some masks covered their whole faces and parts of their head, other just the eyes, and some wore masks that covered their whole head. Everyone was anonymous and that just made your excited anxiety increase.

As you stepped into the Malfoy Manor, you took in your surroundings. Their home was lovely. Beautifully decorated in golds and silvers, accents of black and green. Huge diamond chandeliers came down from the ceilings and twinkled as light passed through it. A large orchestra was settled in the ballroom, playing the finest music your ears have ever heard. You swooned. This all felt like a dream. A very real dream.

At the foyer, you were greeted by a butler who took your coat and another who offered you a flute of golden champagne as you graciously accepted it with a smile and a soft thank you. Your heart fluttered as you examined the manor through your mask.

“May I escort the two loveliest ladies into the ballroom?” your father speaks as he offers his arms to you and your mother. You smile widely at him before you made your way to the ballroom where the rest of the party was.

The ballroom was enchanting. The walls were golden adorned with the most gorgeous architecture you have ever seen. Painted ceilings of pastel colors with tall candelabras that illuminated them. The orchestra played passionately as couples ranged from ages eighteen to fifty danced across the floor, women’s dresses swaying with each elegant movement.

Your eyes searched the dance floor, trying to see if you recognized someone’s body language or movements. But everyone looked unfamiliar to you. Almost as if there was a fog over your eyes.

That’s when your question was answered. “There is a spell cast over the ballroom,” your mother speaks. “To ensure that no one recognizes each other until all masks are removed. When the clock strikes midnight, all masks are removed and everyone sees each other for who they truly are. Exciting, isn’t it?” your mother whispers as you smile.

It was truly a one of a kind experience. You stood and watched those who danced around you, quietly sipping on champagne. Your eyes drifted off to the sidelines as you looked at the people who were your age. Everyone looked beautiful. One girl wore a dress of ruby red and a large diamond necklace that hung gently from her neck as she made quiet chatter with what you assumed was her parents. Another boy wore a velvet suit of navy blue with shiny dress shoes. He quietly stood by himself, watching each and every lady in the room, watching out for who caught his attention.

Every one of the age of eighteen was on a mission it seemed. These people wanted to find their partner for the night and potentially for their life. The stakes were high. It made your heart race and your adrenaline pump. Your competitive nature was coming over you; you couldn’t help it. You were determined to find someone tonight if it was the last thing you did.

Suddenly, the music faded away and the sound of a clinking glass filled the room. “Good evening, esteemed guests,” a feminine voice called out. “Welcome to the annual masquerade ball!” she exclaims, earning claps from every corner of the ballroom. “As you all know, the ball is designed for young witches and wizards to find a partner. We welcome each of you with excitement for the journey that lies ahead of you. That being said, the time as come for the eligible witches and wizards to come onto the dance floor and mingle. Wizards, you may approach any witch who is eligible and ask to have a place on her dance card. Remember, do not tell each other of your names! The dances will begin in ten minutes, so get to talking!” Another cling resounds in the ballroom as eligible bachelorettes and bachelors flood the dance floor.

You turn to your parents and give them nervous eyes as your mother and father give you a warm smile. “You’ll be brilliant,” your father speaks as your mother grabs your champagne glass and hands you your dance card.

With a deep breath, you shake your head and walk out to the dance floor. Your heart was thudding hard against your chest. The moment you stepped onto the floor, someone approached you. “Good evening,” the boy bows as you curtsy to him. “Might I say you look gorgeous this evening,” he compliments you.

You smile, “Thank you very much. You look very nice as well.” He wore a simple black suit and a green pocket square. The detail made you think he was definitely in Slytherin house. Was he in your year? Did you know him personally? Was it Malfoy? No, Malfoy wouldn’t be this kind to you. But then again, he didn’t know it was you.

The boy speaks, “Could I have the pleasure of having a space on your dance card?”

He seemed friendly and kind, there was no reason to say no. Maybe as you danced he would become more interesting. “I would be delighted,” you respond as you hand him your card. He strikes the card with two x’s before returning it to you.

“Thank you, my lady,” he bows before walking away quickly to the very next girl he laid eyes on. You were startled at how quickly you moved, but quickly realized he had prepared some sort of script to dance with as many women as possible before his time was up. Clever.

You continue to make your way around the ballroom, chatting to a few more suitors here and there. Some men you found more charming and clever than other, while others you found yourself bored of, politely dismissing their request for a place on your dance card.

Glancing at the dance card tied around your wrist, you think to yourself about the gentlemen who asked for a space and you granted them the honor of a dance. The first space to the boy who wanted to ask every lady to a dance, the next to a tall, dark, and handsome gentleman with the deep voice, the next to a funny gentleman with a thick Scottish accent, and the last space empty. There was only two minutes left of the mingling before you were to dance with your suitors.

Too distracted by your dance card, you bump into someone else’s body, making you stumble a bit. “Oh my days, I’m so sorry,” you apologize to the body in front of you.

You look up and meet a pair of ice blue eyes that seem to stare into your soul. Your heart stops in its chest as you suck in a breath. In that moment, it felt like the whole ballroom had stopped moving and it was just you two in time. The two of you said nothing and just looked at each other, deep into the other’s eyes. It was if the man in front of you’s eyes held all the secrets to the world.

Clearing his throat, he speaks in a low tone, “No, I apologize. I wasn’t looking where I was going.” You politely smile at him. “But in a way, I’m thankful that I wasn’t or else I wouldn’t have stumbled upon you,” he casually flirts making you blush.

The gentleman bows before you as you curtsy, maintaining eye contact with him the whole time. It was like there was some sort of magnet between the two of you. Was this what it was supposed to feel like? You remember Lottie saying it should feel like there were butterflies flying around and your head should be fuzzy, but none of those sensations were happening. You just felt hot in your face and your palms were sweating, thank goodness for your long gloves.

“I’m glad neither of us were paying attention,” you confess as he smirks. “You are much more interesting than what I was previously focused on.”

The mysterious suitor in front of you chuckles. “I can only hope that you have a spot for me saved on your dance card,” he speaks as you blush.

Teasingly you look at your dance card and fake gasp, “Well, would you look at that? One last spot saved for a special someone...” The gentleman chuckles again as he ticks off the last spot on your dance card.

He slips the card back around your wrist as you suck in a breath as he fingers touch you. “I look forward to our dance,” he bows as you reciprocate the gesture. “Until then, my lady.”

His eyes don’t leave yours until the very last moment as he walks away. You could swoon. He was charming, smooth, witty, and even though much of his face was concealed by his mask, you knew he was handsome. He just had to be. Your face felt hot and your mouth was dry. You knew that you would anxiously await him as your last dance.

With another few clinks against the glass, you are informed that it is time to start the dancing. But before people gather with their first partners, people run back over to where their parents were quietly observing. You excitedly scurry to your mother and father and small smile on your lips dancing as you approach them. Your mother smiles, “Anyone interesting?”

You don’t say a word and take a sip of the champagne that your father offered you. “I know that smile,” he beams. “Which one, darling?” You don’t speak. “Oh, tell us, dearest. We don’t know who any of them are, we are just as clueless as you.”

Sighing, you surrender. “The last gentleman. The one I bumped into.” Your mother scans the room, looking for him. “He has my interest the most out of all of them by far. If the dance goes well, I recon he’ll ask me to promenade outside,” you giggle as your mother joins you.

Your father speaks, “With a chaperone, I assume.”

You roll your eyes as your mother slaps him on the arm. “She’s eighteen, Samuel. She can walk outside with a suitor. Besides, there is security all around the manor. She will be safe.” Your father sighs as your mother looks at you and hands you your lipgloss to reapply. “Go on. Have fun. Play the field, dearest. Remember what I taught you.”

“Yes, Mother,” you beam before heading back to the dance floor.

There, the first boy is waiting for you, his arm extended. You walk arm in arm to the dance floor as the orchestra begins to play a ballroom waltz. His arm is around your waist gently, his one hand holding onto yours as you begin to dance. “Is this your first masquerade ball?” he asks you.

You nod, “Yessir.”

He smiles, “So you’ve just turned eighteen I presume.” You nod again. “This is my fourth ball. I’m hoping to find my one and only here tonight. Do you think you have met yours?” he asks.

You are taken aback by his directness. “Um,” you stutter, “I’m not quite sure. I mean we’ve just met each other.”

He retorts, “Yes, but sometimes you just know, don’t you. You know what I mean?” His eyes are fixated on yours in a fashion that is full of anxiety and nerves as he anticipates your answer. His eyes have a tired look in them, but behind their exhaustion, there is hope.

You gulp, “Nope.” He furrows his brows. “But maybe another lady here understands what you are saying,” you remain hopeful for him as he sighs.

“I am hopeful,” he speaks. “That’s all we can be.”

Before you know it he spins you away and you land in the arms of your second suitor. The tall, dark, and handsome one. You smile as he smirks down at you. “Good evening, my lady,” he speaks in a deep tone that makes you feel like a school girl. “You are ravishing.” You kindly thank him. “So, are you here like everyone else? To find a partner?”

You speak, “I guess so. My parents would like me to be open to the idea of finding a suitor, but I’m still young. I would like to enjoy my time as a single, free woman of my age and status.”

He nods his head. “I see, I see. My parents want me to find a wife here tonight. Me on the other hand? I really don’t want anything serious. I’m just trying to find someone to shag to be quite honest with you. I’m too young to be tied down quite yet,” he reveals as your eyes widen. His eyes on the other hand remain fixated on yours, but aren’t afraid to wander to look around at the other women on the dance floor. You watch his eyes as they occasionally find another woman’s and he drops one of them into a wink. He was a flirt, couldn’t be tied down type. Bedroom eyes that wandered through several bedrooms type eyes. You’ve dealt with those eyes before and were not looking to deal with them again.

You agreed with him on the part of being free and not finding anything too serious, but just a person to have sex with? That wasn’t what you were looking for either. “I see,” you tell him as he winks through his mask. “I’m not quite sure I want something that casual. I am looking for something more consistent, a little more serious than just a shag. More emotional intimacy as well.”

“Fair enough,” he shrugs. “It’s a shame. I found you quite attractive,” he sighs.

But before you can protest, he spins you away from him and into the arms of your next caller, the funny Scot. “Hello there,” he greets you as you meet his gaze. He wears a gentle smile with kind eyes. His eyes are soft and full of childlike wonder. It makes your heart swell to see someone with such eyes.

You softly smile at him, “Hello again.”

The two of you dance back and forth, making light chatter here and there, him sliding in a joke when he can, earning a few giggles from you as he smiles. “How has your night been so far?” he asks you. “Has anyone caught your eye yet?”

You sigh, “The night has been tame so far, but no complaints.” He nods. “As for someone catching my eye, I cannot lie,” you smile as his interest peaks. “There was someone I met who I have my last dance with.”

The Scotsman chuckles, “That’s all you can ask for, isn’t it?”

You join in his light laugher. “What about you? Have you met someone yet?” you ask him as you continue to waltz across the ballroom.

You can see a light rosy hue appear on his cheeks as he smiles. “I have indeed,” he looks across the ballroom as you follow his line of sight. And there she was, dancing with the man you were dancing with before. The same girl from earlier with the gorgeous ruby red gown. “She’s wonderful. And I’ve only spoken to her twice and no more than a total of six minutes.”

Giving his forearm a soft squeeze, you repeat his phrase, “That’s all you can ask for, isn’t it?” He smiles. Maybe you didn’t need a suitor out of the Scot, maybe he was a good friend.

“In that case, we both don’t mind what I’m about to do,” he speaks.

And then he spun you around and off to your last dance.

And that’s when your eyes meet.

You inhale sharply when his hand finds the small of your back and he takes your hand in his. His eyes were still that beautiful ice blue that stared right into your soul and made you want to tell him all of your deepest darkest secrets. Eyes that could tempt you into making the most dangerous decision. Eyes that could lure you into a trap, but a trap that you wouldn’t mind being stuck in.

He breaks the silence first. “We meet again,” he smirks as you blush lightly. The two of you begin dancing as the orchestra swells with music, almost as if they waited to play the most enchanting music right now in this moment. The violins hum a hauntingly beautiful melody as the violas and cellos support the sound. The moment was more than you could ever ask for. “I must tell you, I loathe dancing,” he whispers, making you giggle. “But somehow,” he starts. “You make it feel alright. Not good, but alright.”

You lightly laugh, “I’m glad I can make dancing tolerable for you.” The two of you continue to dance, letting your gown sweep across the floor as the music crescendos. “How has your night been so far? Enjoying yourself?” you ask, curious to know where his mind was at. It had only been minutes but you wanted to know everything about the gentleman in front of you.

The gentleman sighs, “It’s been fine. Not particularly a huge fan of balls or dances. But so far, so good.” He drops his left eye in a wink. “And yourself? How have your other dances been?” he asks you.

You bite your lip and take a moment to think. Now was not the time to play a mind game with him, though you so easily could. But you let your heart get ahead of your head and speak, “None of them as good as compared to this one.” The gentleman laughs, turning away from you in order for you to not catch his delighted blush on his white cheeks. “And your other dances? Did they make dancing more or less tolerable?” you joke with him.

Before the gentleman answers, he looks at the ground with a small smile. He looks up at you and gulps. “I actually didn’t ask anyone else to dance. Just you,” he reveals, making you breath hitch in your throat. That was quite the confession. “No other lady caught my eye like you did.” You don’t turn away when you blush at his flirtations. His eyes stare into yours as your mouth runs dry. “You have the most captivating eyes.”

It felt like you were in a storybook in this moment. The way the orchestra played, how he held you tightly against his body, the way his eyes stared into yours. Your eyes harnessing the power and energy of a thousand suns, but his ice blue eyes able to tame the heat they gave off. Why did this feel so right?

“I don’t know if I should say this,” you start, “but I’m going to anyway.”

He laughs, “I love a girl who can speak her mind. Go on.”

You breathe, “I feel like I’ve known you forever. Like this isn’t our first time meeting. I feel like I’ve known you since the dawn of time.”

You can see him gulp and blink a few times. Did your words scare him? Were you too upfront with him? But before you can think of any more questions, he speaks, “It’s like you can read my mind.” You chuckle as he smiles. “I feel like I was supposed to meet you here, tonight, in this moment. Like this dance was...fate. And I don’t believe in fate.”

For the rest of your dance, no more words are spoken. The two of you just sway and dance to the orchestra that swells with beautiful music. You both gaze into each others eyes and watch the expressions that come across each others faces. With the occasional laugh here and there, absolutely nothing is said. Slowly, everyone around you begins to fade and it is just you two in the ballroom. Why was this happening? You prayed that this was a sign. A sign that this was right, he was right. But you didn’t get the feeling that Lottie was describing to you earlier in your room. Your heart was on fire and you felt like you were about to burst, but no stomach churning or head reeling. Instead, you felt like you were burning. Burning for this man. Burning for his touch. Burning for his attention. You could only hope he felt the same.

Before you know it, the orchestra finishes playing and everyone slowly stops dancing. The ballroom applauds the orchestra and you both join in, but don’t leave each others gazes. Soon enough, people begin to leave the dance floor to partake in other conversations or dance with other people or even promenade outside.

You smile at your gentleman and say, “Thank you for the dance. It was...magical to say the least.” You curtsy to him and turn away to go, but wished you didn’t have to.

Without even taking a step away, you feel him grab your hand. “Wait,” he speaks. “I’m sorry,” he breathes. “Would you...would you like to go for a promenade with me? Outside on the grounds?”

Your heart skips a beat as you sigh and smile, causing him to smile back. He had his answer right there. “I would be more than delighted,” you confess. “One moment please,” you tell him before walking over to where your mother and father watched you in anxious anticipation.

“So?” your mother beams as you nod your head as she smiles.

You had her your dance card and give your father a smile. “I’m going for a promenade outside with the last gentleman I danced with,” you beam as your father nods his head approvingly. “I will see you later,” you speak before walking back to your gentleman as he extends his arm to you.

Your father holds onto your mother’s arm, “Porpentina, how our daughter has grown.” They watch you exit the french doors out of the ballroom and into the gardens of the Malfoy Manor.

Still arm in arm, your suitor speaks, “Now, I know we can’t reveal much of our identities to each other, but I would like to know more about you.” You smile at him, holding onto his arm tightly. “What’s your family like?”

Smiling as you think of your mother and father, you start, “They’re wonderful people. My mother has been my sun, moon, and stars since I could remember. She’s passionate and smart and powerful. She’s everything I want to be.” The gentleman smiles as you tell him of your mother. “My father is incredibly kind though many wouldn’t believe that because of what he does for a living,” you laugh. “But he’s my protector. He’s sacrificed so much for me and for my mother. He’s the best man I know.”

He squeezes your arm. “They sound lovely.” You squeeze his arm back to let him know that his sentiment is appreciated. “Any siblings?” You shake your head. “In that case, we are similar. I’m also an only child.”

“What about your parents? What are they like?” you question him next.

This earns a gulp and deep breath from him. “Well,” he starts. “My mother is kind-hearted. Braver than anyone I have ever met. She’s suffered a lot and continues to suffer just to protect me,” he confesses to you. “I’m sorry I know that’s a lot, but-”

“You don’t need to apologize,” you cut him off, placing a hand on his. “She sounds remarkable. Please, continue.”

He smiles. “She is remarkable. The best woman I know.” You smile warmly at him. Your cheeks hurt so much from smiling. The gentleman takes a deep breath in before starting, “My father on the other hand. He’s a complex man. We’re not particularly close. But similar to your father, he protects me to the best of his ability. I’m not sure whether it’s out of love for his son or for some other selfish reason...probably the latter...” he trails off. You look at his face as it falls lightly. You feel for him. “But that’s beside the matter. I want to know more about you. What are your passions? What are your ambitions in life? What do you want to do with our lives that can be so fucking meaningless?”

You laugh at his joke, crinkling your nose as you do so as he watches you contort your face in delight. He thought you looked beautiful when you laughed. “Well,” you catch your breath. “I want to do something that my family never did. I want to pursue a career when I can help people. Other people. And I have no benefit from it. I just want to help others in any way. When I was a child, I used to want to be a Healer. Then when I was a little older I wanted to be an Auror. But now I’m thinking about being a Healer again or maybe do some form of charity work and philanthropy? I don’t know. I have dreams, but I don’t know which ones to pursue.”

You look at the man beside you and he’s smiling from ear to ear. “It all sounds wonderful to me. You seems so selfless. I’m not used to it, I guess,” he confesses. “But whatever you chose, I know you’ll be brilliant.”

The two of you continue to chat and walk through the gardens, discussing future plans, hopes and dreams, and whatever comes to mind. Talking to this man felt like breathing. It was so easy. Conversation flowed like a channel of water. The conversation seemed never ending and you were perfectly fine with that. You had completely forgotten that you didn’t even know what this man’s name was, but to be honest, you didn’t care. You already knew so much about him from your conversations, you didn’t need to know something as silly as a name.

You walk further and further through the garden until you come across a small area that was covered in rose bushes. It was a strange sight to see, beautiful roses in full bloom in the middle of winter, but with magic, anything was possible. As you walked closer, the masked gentleman plucked one from the bush and offered it to you as you graciously accepted. You continued to walk as he spoke, “There is a game called Rose, Bud, Thorn where you tell someone of the best part of your day, the worst part of your day, and something you are looking forward to. I want to hear yours.”

You nod, “Alright then. My thorn is having to wear this bloody fucking corset top all night,” he laughs at your comment. “My bud is taking said bloody corset off when I get home,” the two of you chuckle. “And my rose...I guess was meeting you,” you bump into his arm playfully. He smiles. “Your turn.”

He sighs, “Let’s see...my thorn is having to dance tonight.” You scoff. “Although, you did make it better...” he teases as you roll your eyes teasingly. “My rose is having the most beautiful, kind, and intelligent woman at this ball with me right now,” he breathes as you blush. “And my bud...” he turns to you as you take a gulp. His soothing icy blue eyes staring into yours made you shiver. “My bud will be taking off this bloody mask of yours and seeing your beautiful face.”

His face is so close to yours, you feel his breath against your lips. Your mouth his dry as you feel him moving closer and closer to your lips. His eyes look at your glossed lips before moving back to your eyes and inching closer and closer to you. Your heart was thumping out of your chest. This was all happening so fast, and yet you were alright with it?

But before he can kiss you, a guard interrupts. “All ball attendees must report inside as per the hosts’ request. It is almost midnight and time for the unmasking!”

The gentleman in front of you sighs as he turns to the guard and gives him a dirty look. “So much for a romantic moment,” he huffs as you chuckle. He takes your hand in his as you both walk back to the inside of the Manor, retracing your steps. You are only a few paces away from inside when he speaks, “Those guards always know how to ruin a bloody moment of mine.”

You furrow your brows and chuckle, “What do you mean?”

“They always seem to catch me at the worst time to tell me something important,” he speaks as you remain confused. He notices your confusion and laughs. “This will all make sense in a moment.” You contort your face in confusion, but before you can ask any further questions the same woman who spoke at the beginning of the ball spoke again. “Welcome back! I hope you all had a lovely night full of mystery and romance,” she giggles. “But now the mystery is over.” Behind her, the clock strikes midnight and bongs. “The spell over the ballroom has been lifted and you may all remove your masks! Please reveal yourselves to each other!”

Slowly, people reveal their true identities and you start recognizing people from Hogwarts. The girl with the ruby red dress that the Scot took a liking too was Pansy Parkinson. So many other familiar faces are revealed as you chuckled. This really was a magical moment.

Beside you, your mysterious man sighs. “Finally.” Your heart beats quickly as you turn to him, anticipating who the man behind the mask was. You hoped he was handsome like you had imagined him to be. Was it someone you knew? Maybe an old classmate? Maybe someone from Hogwarts? Who could it be?

Reaching behind his head, he pulls on the silk strings that hold his mask up. Gently he peels it off and runs his fingers through his styled hair. And that’s when your heart stops and drops into your stomach.

The platinum blonde hair, the icy cold, unforgiving eyes, the pink lips that curled into that smirk. It was all too familiar. All too familiar that it made your chest feel tight with venom and anger. How could you be so naive? How did you not remember those eyes? Those eyes that dug into yours. Those lips that spat such cruel and vile words at you when you were just children.

It was Draco Malfoy.

You inhale a sharp jagged breath as he laughs. “I know, it’s strange, but I’m assuming things are starting to click for you. Especially with how I know the guards and why they let us into the rose garden. But it’s me. I’m Draco. Draco Malfoy,” he speaks with a smile. You feel like you are about to vomit.

Of course, how could you not notice the guards letting you both through the gardens without interruption or protest? How did you not notice his wave of a finger when you needed to be let through somewhere? How did you let him distract you? How did you let yourself become so captivated by the man you hated most in the world?

“I think it’s only fair if I see you now,” he chuckles, waiting for you to take off your mask.

But instead of taking off your mask, you wanted to run. Run far away. Run so far and forget this whole night happened. Forget every word exchanged with Draco full of such adoration. This was a sick joke.

Draco notices your horror and he speaks, “Are you alright, darling?”

His nickname for you made your stomach churn. You felt ill.

You couldn’t look at him any longer. You turned away and began to swiftly walk away from him. “Wait, where are you going?” he asks as you weave through the crowd. “Please, don’t go!”

Your stomach was churning and your head was reeling. How could this have happened. Then it all clicks. Lottie’s words. My stomach felt like it was doing flips and my head was reeling. There was no way. This wasn’t possible. It couldn’t be. You were in love with Draco fucking Malfoy. This was a nightmare.

That’s when his hand grabs your arm and flips you to look at him. “Where are you going?” he laughs as he looks at you. “Are you that surprised?” he asks with a smile as you just stand there, trying to catch your breath. His brows furrow. “Is there something wrong? Do we know each other?” he asks. “Take off your mask so I can see you, darling.”

In pure anger and frustration, you hastily sigh and undo the masks strings quickly before ripping it off your face to reveal your identity. The smile on Draco’s face instantly drops as he recognizes exactly who you are.

And there you were, two enemies standing in front of each other, glaring at each other in the middle of a ballroom, surrounded by other young couples who were falling in love. The two of you just burning holes into the other. The energy of a thousand suns trying to melt the ice that stared right back at it. Two sworn enemies now destined to fall in love. What a conundrum this was.

“Call me darling again and I’ll hex you, Malfoy,” you breath through pants of sheer anger.

Your stomach was still doing flips and your head continued to reel. Your face was flushed. How could Draco Malfoy and your masked gentleman be the same person? It was impossible. Your gentleman was kind and charming and witty and smart and thoughtful. Draco Malfoy was vile and rude and unkind and selfish and self absorbed and loathsome. There was no way you could be in love with a version of someone who you swore you would hate until you took your last breath.

Draco’s face slowly moves into a cautious one. “(Y/N),” he starts. “I swear I didn’t know it was you. I was just as clueless as you. You have to believe that I didn’t do this on purpose.”

You laugh, “I don’t believe a thing that comes out of your mouth. I was stupid to believe that I could fall for a person as disgusting and despicable as you.”

And with that, you march away from Draco, ignoring his calls out for you as you approach your mother and father. Once they see you, their expressions change from excitement to concern. Before anyone of them can ask what was wrong, you demand, “We are going home. Right now. I want to go home. Please. Can we go home?”

You feel a lump in your throat and your eyes become hot with tears. Your mother grabs your hand as your father pulls out his wand to apparate you back home. The last thing you hear before you leave the ball was Draco’s voice calling out for you to come back.

Before you know it, you are back in the comfort of your own home, face stained with tears as you run up the stairs to your room. You ignore your mother and father’s call to tell them what happened. You slam your bedroom door shut and lock it before letting the sob rake through your body, shaking you from the inside out.

You were foolish to believe you could find someone at a stupid ball. Those fucking masks. Making you believe someone was something they weren’t. It was all a lie. Smoke and mirrors. And you fell for it. You fell for Draco and there was nothing that you could do to forget it.

You fell for a facade and you would have to live with that forever. How you were supposed to face him at Hogwarts was beyond your control.

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literaryavalanche · 3 years

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Up Coming Fic Preview - To Swallow the Sun (Mummy Au)

This story was originally going to be my contribution to the Tomarry Big Bang 2018 but I ended up falling out of the fandom before it could take place; I found about half of the first part finished on my old computer and have begun editing it to be able to post once I finish with Killing Instinct.

Excerpt from Chapter 3 - The Tomb of the Serpent King

“Don’t pyramids normally have four sides?” Harry asked. “Why does this one only have three?”

“Can’t say for sure. It may have had a purpose. It may have simply been an older design which was eventually changed.” Bill said as they reached the bottom of the ramp. Harry’s feet sank into the sand. He felt the heat bleed into his trainers. Three other men were standing between them and a dark opening in the pyramid’s face. They approached once they caught sight of them. “These are my colleagues: Rayner Galli, Windsor Reeves and Cade Blair.”

“This is the Parselmouth?” Rayner was nearly the size of Hagrid with copper colored hair. Looking Harry up and down, he whistled through his crooked teeth. “Bloody hell. When you said he looked like the mural we didn’t think you were serious Weasley. But if you put him in clothing from back then he’d look like he walked right off the wall.”

“You’re going to show it to them before you have him open the door?” Cade asked.

“Kind of hard not to.” Windsor pointed out. “It’s only etched into the wall in full color in the only hallway leading to the door.”

“If you expected me to pass up the opportunity to show Harry the story of Har-ri you don’t know me as well as I thought you did.” Bill turned his attention back to them and said “we’ve gone over all the passages we’ll be using with a fine toothed comb and all curses and booby traps left waiting for grave robbers to stumble on have been removed and disabled so there’s no reason to be worried about falling into one. Just be mindful of the amount of noise you’re making while we’re down there: even stone can get to be unstable after so much time has passed and we don’t want to cause a collapse.”

Lighting the tip of his wand, Bill ducked into the dark opening. Swallowing the sudden surge of nerves which threatened to overwhelm him, Harry drew his own wand and followed.

The passageway was claustrophobic and slanted, its ceiling marbled with a concerning mesh of cracks. The walls almost brushed his shoulders on either side, the pale light of his wand spreading across the images and hieroglyphs which had been etched into the stone ages before. Birds. People. Gods and monsters.

The shift of focus was sudden enough that Harry noticed it without it being pointed out: in the midst of the telling of whatever story the walls had been depicting up until then the images had been stripped and etched over with something else, the stone beneath the figures of a familiar Pharaoh and his raven consort still bore the scars of the wild chisel.

Reaching up to run careful fingers across the reliefs, Harry couldn’t help but think I don’t remember him being so triangular. A result of the medium being stone no doubt. The little wizard could clearly recall the smooth slopes of broad shoulders and the chorded muscle of strong arms; the squareness of his jaw and the cheekbones which could have cut glass.

“Uncanny, isn’t it?”

Harry jumped, blinking rapidly as he retracted his hand. “Yeah.” He said. “And his name, too; Har-ri sounds awfully similar to…” he trailed off, the contents of his conversations with Dumbledore and Draco running through his mind. The little raven shuddered. “Who was he?”

“The dearly beloved royal consort of a tyrant. A Pharaoh named Ta-hem. We’ve taken to calling him Tom: a bit less of a mouthful.” Bill said. “At first we were confused as to why the typical depictions of a Pharaoh’s journey to the afterlife would be interrupted to include this tale instead. Why it appeared as if it were a sudden revision, made just before this tomb was sealed off and left to the mercy of the desert. Then we translated the hieroglyphs and made sense of the depictions and realized it was the tale of the last years of both their lives. How much do you know about ancient Egyptian mythology?”

“Um…” Harry’s eyes panned over the engraved wall, taking in the images of courting and warfare and death. “They worshiped cats?”

Rayner snorted from the rear of the party. “Well informed, this one.”

Bill cracked a smile. “The Egyptians worshiped many animals in connection to their Gods. Cats were connected to Mafdet and Bastet and seen as the Guardians of their underworld, Duat.” He said. “The Pharaoh, at the time, was a despot who had made a deal with Apophis for immortality in exchange for the slaughter of his family and the souls of his ancestors. He’d stolen his throne from his father by violence at sixteen and ruled with an iron fist, holding Egypt in a reign of terror. But when he laid eyes on Har-ri, said to be so beautiful no mortal could bear to look upon him directly, he fell in love. Attending to him with a devotion termed ‘worshipful’ by his subjects, he could deny him nothing and Har-ri used his power over the Pharaoh to make life for his subjects easier.”

“For a decade the Kingdom flourished despite clashes with rival empires, until an assassination plot was hatched: aiming to shatter the Pharoah’s will to fight, they targetted Har-ri. But rather than break the man as his enemies had intended it drove the Pharaoh mad with rage, the last of his sanity snapping. He preserved his consort’s body in honey until Har-ri’s tomb was completed and brought the full wrath of his army upon the Kingdom responsible. Killing not just soldiers but civilians. Anyone who crossed his path. His own men. Using their blood to again invoke Apophis and make a second deal, this time for a ritual which would bring his consort back to life.”

“But Ta-hem’s own priests turned against him and interrupted the ritual, cutting out the Pharaoh’s tongue so he could not curse them and mummifying him alive. What was meant to be his tomb instead became his prison.”

“And you want to open it?” Ron demanded, wide eyed.

“Relax.” Cade drawled. “No matter how well versed in Dark Magic and Curses the Ancient Egyptians were, nothing can survive 36000 years locked in a box. Never mind having their organs removed on top of it. ‘Immortal’ or not.”

Eyeing the image of his Pharaoh’s imprisonment, Harry shuddered and looked away. “Where’s the door?”

Picking up on his tone Bill nodded and started moving down the hallway again. “Just down here.”

#Mummy Au #Tomarry #Upcoming fic

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dalekofchaos · 3 years

Text

Harmione au & headcanons

My au and headcanons for Harmione 🖤

There was a hint of things to come in their first year. Before they leave. Hermione tells Harry "Harry, you're a great wizard, you know. " "I'm not as good as you." "Me? Books and cleaverness! There are more important things! — Friendship! And Bravery and— love!" Inspiration

Harry fell in love with Hermione the moment they saved Buckbeak together and Hermione has always loved Harry

Before Hermione could ask Viktor to the Yule Ball, she finds out that he has a date. So Hermione and Harry at the same time yell “WILL YOU GO WITH ME TO THE YULE BALL?” Both of them are redder than their Gryffindor colors.

When Harry witnesses Hermione in her Yule Ball dress, his jaw drops and smiles at her with heart eyes and Hermione looks at Harry like he’s her prince charming.

It was then when they danced together that Harry and Hermione confessed their feelings for each other. Hermione is the one who goes in for the kiss.

Later they find out that Ron asked out Viktor. Ron is happy for his friends, so while all parties are content, there is no drama

During the second task, Harry rescues Hermione

Hermione is there to comfort Harry over Cedric’s death and Voldemort’s return. What it may look like.

As Harry and Hermione bid each other farewell until year 5, Hermione hugs Harry and kisses him on the cheek and Harry embraces Hermione in a kiss. Like so

Hermione would gift Harry her second copy of Hogwarts:A History and makes absolutely clear. “Harry James Potter, after 4 years you will finally read Hogwarts:A History! Do I make myself clear?” A twitch of fear enters Harry’s reality after he saw what Hermione did to Rita. “Yes Hermione”

In Harry’s copy of Hogwarts:A History is a portrait of Harry and Hermione’s dance and first kiss.

Only thoughts of Hermione kept Harry sane from the nightmares of Voldemort and Cedric

Thinking of Hermione allowed Harry to conjure a corporal Patronus to save himself and Dudley

Hermione wakes up after hearing Harry’s night terrors. Hermione cuddles with Harry and that stops Harry’s terrors stop

Other nights, Hermione would read to Harry until he falls asleep

After seeing what Umbridge did to Harry, not only does Hermione tell McGonagall, but Hermione confronts the loathsome toad and makes it explicitly clear that Umbridge’s archaic and medieval practices against students is illegal. Hermione is sentenced to detention for her troubles of course, this later furthers Hermione’s “fuck the rules” mentality

Harry Ron and Hermione would of course found Dumbledore’s Army as per canon

In private, Hermione would ask Harry if he’s read Hogwarts:A History. Harry said yes and loved it and asks Hermione to keep recommending books to him. This would leave Hermione with the biggest smile and blush possible. “Oh Harry”

Harry and Hermione would help Cho through her grief with Cedric

Harry and Hermione cast their patronuses together. Hermione’s Otter loves on Harry’s Stag

Harry and Hermione’s nicknames for each other after seeing their patronus is “Darling Otter” and “Dashing Stag”

Cho would talk to Harry and Hermione in confidence about Marietta sand they are able to get through to her before she talks to Umbridge

Harry and Hermione still fuck up Umbridge’s shit. “I’m sorry professor, we must not tell lies” and they hold hands as Umbridge suffers the consequences

When Hermione was stunned and silenced by Antonin Dolohov, Harry bombarded him with Stupefy

Hermione would be there to comfort Harry after Sirius’ death

During the summer, Harry and Hermione would spend time together. Harry would meet Mr and Mrs Granger, which was lovely. Hermione met the Dursleys. Which was not pleasant. They watched movies together and danced together and skated together before Hermione returned home

Hermione would wear Harry’s Quidditch jerseys and Harry would read Hermione’s books

When Harry arrives at the Burrow, everyone greets him as normally. But Ron has something to tell everyone. Ron is bisexual and in love with Viktor Krum. Everyone is accepting and proud of Ron.

Hermione would try to talk Harry out of spying on Draco, but Harry insists there is something suspicious about Draco

Harry and Hermione go on a date to Slughorn’s Christmas party. Harry and Hermione would kiss under the mistletoe

Instead of Hermione being heartbroken over not being with Ron, it’s Ron who is saddened by not being able to see his boyfriend. So Harry gives Ron Sirius’ old Two-Way Mirror.

Harry and Hermione would dance at Bill and Fleur’s wedding

When Remus asks Harry to be Godson to Teddy, Harry agrees, and so does Hermione.

During the hunt for the Horcruxes, pretty much the same stuff happens

Harry and Hermione have their same moments in Godric Hollow. But I’d also add, “I think my mum and dad would’ve love you, Hermione.”

Rest of the story would remain the same. Ron returns, Hermione would be mad at first and welcome him back. Pretty much the same till Battle Of Hogwarts

Harry and Hermione would be Battle Couple goals in the Battle Of Hogwarts.

As Harry tells Hermione and Ron what he must do after witnessing Snape’s memories. Hermione breaks down. Harry embraces Hermione in a hug and a kiss.

When Voldemort gloats about killing Harry and demands obedience and loyalty. After Neville’s “FUCK YOU! I’LL JOIN YOU WHEN HELL FREEZES OVER, DUMBLEDORE’S ARMY” defiance, Hermione stands defiant and gives a speech, basically saying those who died are not in vain. How she loved Harry, something Voldy could never understand and that Harry is still with her. And basically saying Voldemort will fall as they know his secret and just one more remains. Voldemort absolutely seething with rage. Screams. “You filthy mudblood, AVADA KEDAVRA!” And Harry wakes and casts a shield charm to save Hermione. Voldemort’s full attention is focused on Harry.

Ron and Hermione try to desperately kill Nagini, but fail. Luckily Neville with the sword of Gryffindor kills the snake and the final Horcrux

After the Battle Of Hogwarts, Harry and Hermione begin to plan their life together

When Hermione found out Harry was choosing not to attend Harry’s 7th Year after free from Voldemort and the war. Hermione sent a Howler. “HARRY JAMES POTTER, YOU MARCH YOUR ASS TO DIAGON ALLEY AND TO KING’S CROSS STATION AND PREPARE TO ATTEND YOUR 7TH YEAR RIGHT NOW!” Ron thinks he’s in the clear.....until Molly’s letter. Needless to say, Harry and Ron did attend their final year. Kingsley is NOT pulling them out of Hogwarts, cause he does not want to face the wrath of Molly Weasley

Sometime after graduating Hogwarts, Harry proposed to Hermione in Godric’s Hollow. Harry got down on his knee and asked her “Hermione, my Otter and my soul mate. Will you marry me and grow old with me in Godric’s Hollow?” Hermione, smiling with tears of joy shouts “Yes!”

idk the specifics of their vows, but I believe it would end with Harry telling Hermione. “Hermione. in you I found love, peace and Harmony. I love you Hermione Jean Granger and I am complete with you.”

Either they would fix up The Potters’ Cottage in Godric’s Hollow or build their own Cottage

Harry and Hermione would raise Teddy as their own, but always remind him of who Remus and Tonks were and what they sacrificed to keep him safe.

Harry would be an Auror for a time and Hermione would be Deputy Head of the Law Enforcement department. After a time, they would retire and return to Hogwarts as Professors. Harry would be the DADA Professor and Hermione would be the Transfiguration Professor.

Harry and Hermione’s children would be named. James Sirius Potter, Rose Lily Potter and Leo Serpen Potter

All was well

#Harry Potter #Harmione #Harry James Potter #Hermione Granger #HHR #Harmony #harry x hermione

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too-attached-to-fiction · 4 years

Text

Choose To Be Better | d.m.

Masterlist here

Part 2 here

REQUESTS ARE OPEN!!!

Word count: 1888

Request: Would you write a Draco Malfoy imagine where the reader is an American pureblood transfer to Slytherin and so she butts heads with the racist Slytherins, Draco included but at a Christmas ministry event she and Draco end up spending time together and she realizes he isn't bad when he's alone so it starts a 'friendship' where they still bicker but it's not spiteful and during the 6th year she is there for him?

A/N: YES! I love writing draco and i love the arcs where the reader/OC saves him from becoming a part of the death eaters! This kind of ran away from me but I’m actually really glad it did. I think it’s because I tried to shove like a bunch of the books in but I’m very proud of it and I hope you enjoy it too! I didn’t really put the bickering part in because I wasn’t sure how to fit it all together but otherwise I think this is pretty good :) Thank you anon!

~~~

“Before we begin with the sorting, we have accepted a transfer student from Ilvermorny who is starting her third year here. Miss (L/N), if you would be so kind to step up to the sorting hat?”

You nodded, moving wordlessly to the stool and climbing up. You weren’t sure how Hogwarts houses related to Ilvermorny houses, but you assumed the systems were similar. Back in America, you had been in Pukwudgie, the house representing a wizard’s heart.

Around you, you heard whispers arise from the tables of students.

“A transfer student?”

“Ilvermorny? I’ve never heard of it…”

“What country?”

“America, I think…”

The whispers were tuned out as a professor placed an old wizard’s hat on your head.

“(Y/N) (L/N)... What an interesting student. You were in Pukwudgie, I hear.”

“Yes.”

“Fascinating… You’re bright, very bright. Now where shall I place you?”

You’d listened to the sorting hat’s song at the beginning of the ceremony, but you weren’t sure where you’d fit. You wanted to help people, but you were determined to forge your own path, away from your family history.

“Your father was a Ravenclaw, yes? And yet, you want more than knowledge. You’re quite a mystery, my girl. Where do you want to go? There are pieces of you in every house.”

“I thought you would be the one to sort me in the right place.” You retorted, and the hat chuckled.

“Ooh, you’re feisty. Now listen, my dear, whatever you’ve been told about each house is reputation, not fact. I trust you’ll make better choices than most… you’d be better off in SLYTHERIN!” The hat shouted. Apart from a few stray cheers from the table, the rest of the hall merely clapped politely.

Although you believed the sorting hat had put you in the right place, you certainly didn’t feel welcome in the dungeons of the castle. Most of your dorm mates were quiet around you, and in turn, you were quiet around them. You were a good student in all of your classes, and kept your head down to avoid any confrontation.

And yet, you seemed to butt heads with one Draco Malfoy.

It seemed that he never went anywhere without his two goons, and it wasn’t so bad until one day, he decided to go after you.

“Look, it’s the little transfer. What, America didn’t like you, so you came here?”

“My parents divorced.” You shot back. “I didn’t have a choice.”

“What, your mum didn’t want you?”

“Go away, Malfoy.” You rolled your eyes, turning back to your book. “I have no interest in people who bully others for their amusement.”

When you returned home for the winter holidays, you had nothing to report. You managed to make a few friends outside of your house, but most of the Slytherin students remained cold to you, probably due to Malfoy’s influence.

“There's a Ministry Christmas gala being hosted by the Minister at Malfoy Manor. You and your brother will be accompanying me tonight.” Your father told you. “Please remember your manners. While I may not agree with the Malfoy’s values, it’s better to be polite than be rude to the enemy.”

~~~

This gala had to be one of the most boring events you attended. Still, you feigned interest as you spoke to the other adults around you. Most of them had a habit of talking down to you, but you merely smiled and continued on your way.

You were on your way to get a glass of punch when Malfoy intercepted you.

“(L/N), what is a mudblood like yourself doing here?”

“I’m a half-blood, for your information.” You said coolly, trying to find ways around you to get out of the conversation. You kept your shoulders back, jutting up your chin. “Half American pureblood and half English pureblood. But I suppose only the English side matters to you.” You brushed past him, continuing to walk towards where you had been planning on going.

Draco followed, suddenly intrigued. “Why would you be at an event like this? I thought only adults were allowed.”

“You’re not the only one with a father in power.” You said, continuing forward. “Is there something you need, Malfoy, or are you planning on trying to instigate a fight for the rest of the evening?”

“Would you like to get away from this boring party?”

“Please, be my guest.” He held out his hand for you to take and you glanced at it.

“I’m not kidnapping you, for Merlin’s sake.”

“Just checking.” You smiled, taking his hand.

A few minutes later, you wound up in one of the gardens, away from the bright lights of the party. The two of you sat down on a stone bench in the center, your hand not quite ready to leave his just yet.

“Why did you take me out here?” You asked after a few moments of silence. “I thought you didn’t like me.”

“Perhaps I’ve had a change of heart.” He replied quietly. “I’ve got a reputation to uphold, after all.”

“Why? Is it so hard to be yourself?”

“I don’t know who I am. All I know is that I am a Malfoy, and I can only interact with the highest of blood purity.”

“A halfblood isn’t the highest.”

“You were invited. Not many get that honour.” Draco backpedaled, removing his hand from yours.

“Do you want to be a Malfoy?”

“Of course. How could you ask such a thing?” In an instant, his walls rose. You sighed in defeat.

“You don’t want to be a Malfoy, Draco.” You said clearly. “You’re only a son trying to please his bigoted father.”

“That’s not true.” He stood up, cheeks reddening. “My father will hear about-”

“Hear about what? I’m sure you’re breaking his rules by talking to an American, and a halfblood, aren’t you?” You raised an eyebrow, and his shoulders sagged in defeat. “We can’t be here long, then.”

“If you don’t believe in the importance of blood purity, why are you here? Why did you choose to come with me?”

You stood up, your (E/C) eyes searching for something in his grey ones. “Because I believe there’s good in you. You are not Lucius Malfoy. You are Draco Malfoy, and Draco Malfoy needs to learn how to make his own choices. If you let me, I can help you be your own person.”

“I am my own person.” He said, but his words sounded unsure.

“You just told me you don’t know who you are.” You matched his cold stare with ease.

“I don’t need your help.”

“If not me, who else will help you?”

“Someone will.”

“You don’t sound sure about that.” You raised your eyebrow again. “It’s our actions and choices that define us, not our family.”

~~~

A few days after Buckbeak had vanished from Hagrid’s hut, Draco came to talk to you in the common room.

“I want to be better.”

Instead of dropping your mouth open with shock, as Draco expected, you only smiled up at him.

“I’m glad you’ve come to your senses.”

For the duration of the summer holiday, you and Draco exchanged letters back and forth, In them, he wrote of his hesitation to participate in activities his father forced him in. The only solution you could possibly give him was to act the way he always acted. You needed more time to figure out how to help, given that his family was known as one of Voldemort’s higher accomplices.

One day, towards the end of summer, you approached your father. Miraculously, your family had been growing closer and closer to the Weasleys and Harry Potter.

“Dad?” You asked, knocking on the door to his study. “I need to talk to you. It’s important.”

Your father swung open the door. “Now what could be so important that it needed to interrupt my work?” “It’s important.”

Earlier in the summer, your father had told you about the Order of the Phoenix. Despite the fact that it was currently dormant, he and the other Order members believed that Voldemort’s return was inching closer and closer by the day.

“Important how?”

“I need you to help me help someone.”

You quickly skimmed over the details, not mentioning Draco’s identity at all. “What should I do?”

“You shouldn’t be concerning yourself over these matters, (Y/N), they’re very dangerous-”

“Please.”

“I’ll write Dumbledore, but don’t expect anything to come from it.”

~~~

During your fifth year, you brought Draco to your house for the winter holiday. He’d mentioned he’d stay at school, but you insisted he be around people at Christmas. When you pulled Draco into your father’s study, your father’s eyes set quickly, darkening.

“(Y/N), please explain what a Malfoy is doing in our house.”

“He needs help, Dad.”

Reluctantly, your father brought your family and Draco to Grimmauld Place for an appeal to the Order of the Phoenix. Tensions were raised on both sides, with only Dumbledore willing to hear Draco out.

“Why him?” Sirius demanded. “Out of all people, why are we helping him?”

“We’re no better than the Death Eaters if we don’t hear him out.” Your glare quieted the other members. “Draco is not his father or his father’s choices. He doesn’t want to be a part of the Death Eaters, and we are not leaving this room until we find a way to help him.”

“They’re children, what do they know about war?” Arthur Weasley objected.

“They are children. But I trust my daughter, and her choices, even if it means trusting a Malfoy. And I trust Dumbledore, who has graciously agreed to come at once regarding my message.” Your father spoke up, and Dumbledore nodded in acknowledgement.

“They’re too young-” Molly started, but Snape cut her off.

“But not incapable. The boy’s doing it for his family, no matter how much he tries to distance himself. We cannot remove him completely from the situation, but we can use this to our advantage. If the Malfoys are anything, they are misguided by their beliefs.”

“Thank you, Severus.” Dumbledore finally turned to the two of you. “Draco, if you are alright working as a spy…”

“If it means not working for him, then by all means.” Draco bowed his head. “When the time is right, I’m going to fight by your sides. Even if I’m killed in the process.”

None of the current Gryffindors were made aware of this decision, but the two Slytherins headed home, satisfied.

The next two and a half years took a toll on you and Draco. You saw him less and less, and when you did, he seemed worse for wear. You were aware of his mark, and of his mission, but that didn’t make you any less determined to help him and get out of this war for good.

You watched across the courtyard as Voldemort awkwardly hugged Draco. This was all part of the plan, and you’d come this far. You had to survive this.

When the duel finished, he rushed over to your side. Both of his parents shot sad but knowing looks at his back.

A year later, Narcissa would thank you for keeping her son safe. But now, in his arms, amidst the rubble…

All you could think about was a long-deserved future with him.

#harry potter imagines #draco malfoy imagines #harry potter x reader #draco malfoy x reader #harry potter fanfiction #hp draco malfoy #draco malfoy #harry potter #could be platonic #could be romantic #idk

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shadowdianne · 5 years

Note

One word prompt: Iridescent preferably Cissamione but whatever pairing you like

A/N Did someone say AU? Oh wait, I did :PThanks fusagi, for the prompt. Hope you like it ;)

Set on: Steampunk-ish ‘verse because I’m sorryif you didn’t know this, people, but I adore writing AUs. -The rules for this world are totally written down but for the sake of exposition, I’ve left many things unsaid. Hope you like the clues I’ve painted tho’ :P

Smallish note: Feels weird to be writing solelyfor this pair for the time being. I apologize if some typo regarding who is thebrunette and who the blonde end up being slipping up within the text.

[ˌɪrɪˈdɛsənt]

Having or exhibiting iridescence.

iridescence

A lustrous rainbowlike play of colorcaused by differential refraction of light waves (as from an oil slick, soapbubble, or fish scales) that tends to change as the angle of view changes

Hermione stood as the pitter-patter of the raindescended upon her, the drops not strong enough to make her follow the shadowsshe could see moving up and down the road that extended beyond the carefullydecorated shrubs that delimited the borders of the Black state. Biting on herbottom lip, she glanced at the illuminated mansion, at the reds and oranges ofthe fairy lights that had been magicked with deals she would probably be ableto concoct on her mind even if she wasn’t able to reproduce cast an almosteerie glow around the building. An aura she knew wasn’t the entire truth of theplace nor the party she was able to enter.

And, indeed, the colors bled into each other,mixing into the black night in where the lights from the lampposts at her backfelt almost like punctures into the belly of a beast that the explorers sent toevery other corner of the known and unknown world were still trying todiscover. Enough, she found herself thinking, to make her look down towards herbooted feet and the puddles that were shyly beginning to make an apparition inthe soil of the crafted garden. The liquid formed lines around sigils in wheredeals made out of rubies and steam lost each other under the darkened grass.There, reflected by a moonless night, the colors felt almost like an oil spill;one she could almost feel coating her fingers if she ever dared to kneel andtouch the ground: thick and inviting but dangerous nonetheless.

She had worked for the Ministry for a shortperiod of time, but she had seen some of the machines made by far too curious unspeakableexplode and corrode everything around them; magic spilling, unbidden and raw.She felt the same sensation she had felt the very first time she had walkedinto a still cleaning cubicle, magic glimmering from the walls, breathing,alive. This time, however, there weren’t incantations dribbling from the ceilingnor runes beginning to lose their shapes if one dared to look at them longenough; the manor, the building, was on itself an eerie reminder of a pull shewasn’t entirely sure how she felt about it.

The rumors of a party back at Black manor hadbeen floating around the highest circles of London’s society and, maybe, thelowest as well. Whispers made in the darkest places of the Knockturn’s Alleywhere one could find deals with the Faes for only a few knuts; intricatedesigns no wizard nor witch would be able to replicate in order to make a spellto work; clickety wands dripping ichor in the hands of those who had given fartoo much for those scrolls and sigils with the empty hope of getting whateverthey have given back twice over. Which had been the reason why, when an angryowl followed by an even more ruffled memorandum had arrived at Hermione’s desk,she had been quite surprised at the sight of the simple yet elegant handwritingasking her to go to the dinner itself.

“Remember to not stareat the other side of mirrors; you never can know what lies behind.”

Those had been the only words Draco had beenable to tell her when the brunette had asked him why her, of all people. Shewas part of the Golden Trio after all; the ones who had destroyed everythingthe families like the ones that were most likely to be present had tried to fightfor. Trials said and done, many were the ones who still walked free and whileHermione felt afloat beyond the shaky line her mental health had been reducedto, she still could feel her entire being shaking as she shook her head onemore time before stepping firmly into the puddles, water splashing and theimage of bleeding colors disappearing into the mist.

Gulping as much crisp air as she was able to,the young witch approached the main door of the mansion, the gravel protestingbeneath her as she grazed the simple, yet effective rune sewed in the insidesof her right pocket. Warmth beginning to graze up her arms, through her veins,she chewed on her bottom lip as she took into the glamourized façade of thebuilding.

It was pristine, like glass, and Hermione feltthe burning need to touch the shimmering surface despite her prior doubts, hermind already going over the enchantments and formulas that it would make suchthing possible while not making muggles suspicious. They were far too many, shedecided, and so she hummed to herself for a few more seconds before she knockedonce, twice.

Harry hadn’t been too keen on her going to theparty. He hadn’t said it so but one didn’t spend eight years saving someoneelse’s life while not picking a few tells and the dark-haired man had been allworry and nerves the moment Hermione had dropped the invitation on his lappretending -as she always did- that Ron’s absence could easily be explained bywork rather than the truth that the man didn’t want to see her. Not after theirbreak up.

Harry, for all his obvious worries, hadn’t disagreedopenly with her when she had admitted she was curious enough to attend. TheBlack mansion was, after all, an illusion on itself; a memory of a kind of grandeurthat didn’t truly exist anymore and Hermione, being who she was, felt the needto step into the oil-stained walls, glance at portraits of those whorepresented what had been defeated once and for all.

The fact she left away when Harry had asked foran explanation was much simpler and had the color of icy blue, the shape of arecently divorced witch, the scent of lilac and words exchanged in hallways underbrittle promises. She was thinking about those when the door cracked open, a man-not an elf- letting her enter with nothing but a quick glance to her clothesand the invitation she was already offering to him, a sudden burst of flame andsmoke engulfing the paper before the fire disappeared. Paper intact.

“Follow me, miss.”

Hermione did, eyes drinking into the mothwing-like texture of the walls, the blacks, greens and silvers that jumped fromevery other corner, the labyrinth-like designs etched at the halls carpet.

Power, as she found herself thinking, could beshown in many ways. The mansion had its own and it wasn’t afraid to showcase itand there was a warning there, a ripple in a pond, that disappeared too quicklythe second the doors of another room opened for her; mutters of voices dyingdown the second she left the presence of the chamberlain again; ready to walkback to lightened corners.

Which, she found herself realizing, didn’t seemlike a possibility as many critical eyes fell upon her. She didn’t feel afraid,there were very few things that could actually make her feel that way afterall, after everything but she felt robbed of her ability to breathe until hereyes landed in those that she had been thinking about seconds before; just asazure as she had pictured them.

If the house was, by itself, a proof of power despitethe decaying edges of the society that had built it once, Narcissa was amasterpiece; a creature that made her feel at loss. Dressed in a burgundy shadeso dark it looked almost black under the fairy lights, the hostess approachedher with the ice on her pupils bleeding into the warmth keener to appear nextto a fireplace. Skin prickling, senses tingling, Hermione fought against a blush that threatened to rise up her neck, the promise of a party all butforgotten as the older witch narrowed her eyes at the fact that she was stilldowning her coat.

A detail that was quickly arranged by thesolicitous chamberlain, his hands quick and efficient under Narcissa’s eyes.

“I wasn’t sure if you would take upon theinvitation.”

Hermione bit down on her bottom lip; themovement catching the blonde’s attention for a second that felt far too long asthe ticking noise of nearby clock rose and fell, crashing against them both. Bubblesgrowing on her lungs, threatening to expand to the point of pain, Hermionethought back to the hexes and warnings, to the threats and wishes she couldfeel bleeding and reaching for her, for her hands and wand and needs.

Maybe she liked to feel a little reckless.

“I would never have missed it.”

#cissamione #prompt #wooden-turtle

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daphnewritings · 3 years

Text

Chapter 3: House Slytherin

Summary: Draco arrives at Hogwarts and wants to fight Harry about 2.5 seconds after meeting him, I give the Slytherin common room a makeover

Warnings: Sorting ceremony feels

Word Count: 5.8k words (I’m not sorry)

- Chapter 2 / Chapter 4 -

The castle began to loom larger as the boats headed towards the cliff face upon which it stood. Draco was starting to get a bit worried when the giant at the front of the pack boomed, “Heads down!” as he drifted underneath a curtain of ivy. Flattening himself against his knees, Draco looked over and caught Pansy’s eye. She had the widest smile on her face, and he felt a grin of his own start to grow as the dangling leaves brushed his back.

Beyond the green curtain, a long dark tunnel stretched under the castle and ended at an underground boathouse. All of the boats slowly rocked up to several docks and Draco made sure he was the first out. Remembering his manners, he turned to offer Pansy a hand, but she slapped it away and hopped out right after him, making the small boat tilt dangerously, forcing Crabbe and Goyle to grab for the sides to steady it before they were tossed into the dark water.

Draco was saved from wondering if he should wait for them to decide it was safe to get out by Pansy linking her arm around his and dragging him away. When he looked back at them helplessly, she scoffed, “Stop worrying about them! They’re big boys. They can handle getting out of one little boat.” Draco wasn’t so sure, but he kept his thoughts to himself.

They followed the giant’s swinging lamp towards the mouth of the cave that spat them out at the beginning of a seemingly endless flight of stairs. The night sky twinkled around them as they began their climb, the path twisting back and forth up the side of the cliff. Eventually, the stairs ended in a passageway that opened into a courtyard.

Huffing and puffing like the rest of the students, Draco disentangled himself from Pansy and stopped for a moment to catch his breath. Above him, the towers of the castle loomed, warm lights shining from every window. The gargoyles on every eave seemed to grin down at him in an unhinged sort of way and he fought the urge to stick his tongue out at them in defiance.

He followed the stream of students to a set of large oak doors where the giant stood waiting for the last of the students to stagger out into the courtyard, their hands clutching their sides. Among them were Crabbe and Goyle, who pushed their way through the crowd to Draco’s side. “Glad you could finally join us,” Draco hissed under his breath. Crabbe waved him off as he braced his hands against his knees.

“Right, is that everyone? You there, still got yer toad?” After a beat of silence in which the ghostly boy from the train must’ve nodded, the giant raised one oversized fist and knocked on the doors three times.

After his last thundering knock, one of the doors swung open to reveal a tall witch in emerald green robes whose black hair was pulled back tightly into a knot at the back of her skull. The severity in her expression softened minutely as the giant stepped aside to reveal the crowd of young students waiting anxiously behind him. “The new firs’ years, Professor McGonagall,” he said proudly.

“Thank you, Hagrid. I will take them from here,” she said as she threw the door wide open. She turned on her heel and began to walk back into the castle without another word and they quickly fell into step behind her. Once Draco passed over the threshold, his eyes widened, taking in the scene before him.

The entrance hall walls were covered from floor to ceiling in alcoves that shelved statues of knights, each barring the crest of Hogwarts on their breastplates. Across from the front doors stood two winged boars besides a staircase that led up into shadow, no doubt the path to the upper floors. On either side of the staircase lay steps that led down into the depths of the castle, the walls lined with picture frames both large and small that spread upwards haphazardly. A massive pair of double doors stood to their right from which Draco could hear the drone of hundreds of voices through. However, rather than leading them through the second pair of large wooden doors, McGonagall directed them into a small antechamber on the left.

The first years all crowded into the cramped space and Draco immediately aimed for the edge of the room, seeking breathing space. The group quieted down quickly once McGonagall raised her hands for silence. “Welcome to Hogwarts,” she said, “In a few moments you will be allowed to take your seats with the rest of your classmates in the Great Hall. But first, you must be sorted into your houses. They are Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin.” Draco bumped his shoulder against Goyle’s, and the boys shared a knowing smile. “While you are here, your house will be like your family. You will go to classes with your house, spend your free time in your house common room, and sleep in your house dormitory.”

“Your achievements will earn your house points, while any rule-breaking will result in the loss of points. The house with the most points by the end of the year will be awarded the House Cup,” she seemed to sigh slightly at this point in a resigned sort of way. “I can only hope that while you attend Hogwarts, you will all be a credit to your houses.”

The students parted before her as she walked back to the door through which they had entered the small chamber. Once she reached it, she turned around and said, “The sorting ceremony will begin momentarily. I suggest that some of you,” she gave a pointed look towards a familiar looking red head, “smarten yourselves up while you are waiting.” And with that, she spun on her heel and closed the door behind her with a definitive snick.

Before even a few seconds had passed, Draco was pushing himself through the crowd towards the red headed boy. Rounding him, he said, “So it’s true what they said on the train,” wide green eyes met his and Draco finally saw the lightning shaped scar. “Harry Potter has come to Hogwarts.” His words were met with a wave of whispers as he felt Crabbe and Goyle slide into place on either side of him. Harry Potter’s green eyes darted between the two larger boys as Draco gestured to them. “This is Crabbe and Goyle, and I’m Malfoy,” he stepped closer to Potter as he continued, “Draco Malfoy.”

The red-haired boy to Potter’s right sniggered and Draco turned to him. Glaring, he said, “Think my name is funny, do you? No need for me to ask for yours,” he curled his lip as he pointedly looked the boy up and down. “Red hair and a hand-me-down robe? Must be a Weasley.” Draco saw that redhead’s hands curl into fists, but Draco proceeded to ignore him wholly as he turned back to Potter. “You’ll soon find out that some wizarding families are better than others, Potter.” He looked at Weasley and scoffed, “You don’t want to go making friends with the wrong sort.” Looking back at Potter he stuck out his hand and said, “I can help you there.”

Potter stared down at his hand for a moment and then gave Draco a small, wry smile, “I think I can tell the wrong sort for myself, thanks.”

There were a few muffled giggles and Draco felt his cheeks start to go pink as he sneered, “Listen, Potter-” but was stopped by a hand on his shoulder. Looking up into Professor McGonagall’s face, he looked back at Potter and hoped his eyes expressed how much Potter was going to regret the day he’d been born as he stepped to the side. Potter raised his chin slightly and ignored him.

Fuming, Draco kept staring at the side of Potter’s face as McGonagall said, “We are ready for you. Please form a line and follow me.”

Draco let the students file past him before he saw Pansy and shoved in behind her, Crabbe and Goyle doing the same behind him. She looked over her shoulder and grinned, “Nice one.”

“Shut up.”

Finally stepping through the two grand doors into the Great Hall, Draco felt hundreds of eyes focused on him. Rather than meet them head on, Draco looked up at the ceiling, where hundreds of candles floated underneath a magical starry sky where the roof should have been. Glancing back down to earth, Draco looked at the raised head table behind which a line of adult witches and wizards sat, peering down at them. One of them he recognized from the many times he’d seen him in attendance at his mother and father’s dinner parties: Severus Snape.

Snape sat, talking quietly to a wizard on his right as the students were led up in front of the raised platform. His long, greasy black hair swung in a curtain to the side as McGonagall gestured to the right and left of the steps leading to the head table, “Students, please line up on either side.” Fanning out, the group divided along the steps, framing a path up to where an old, dirty looking wizard’s hat sat on top of a stool.

Wrinkling his nose at it, Draco’s eyes widened as the hat twitched to life and the folds around its top arched like eyebrows. It felt like it was looking right at him, which was impossible, because hats don’t have eyes.

McGonagall turned and walked to stand beside the hat. Pulling her wand from within the folds of her robe, she pointed it into the air and a thick roll of parchment materialized and began to unfold. McGonagall stowed her wand back within her robe and said, “When I call your name, please step forth. I will place the sorting hat onto your head and then you will be sorted into your houses.” As they nodded, she lifted the hat up by its pointy tip and said, “Let’s begin. Abbott, Hannah!”

A small, round faced girl with blonde pigtails marched up the steps and hopped up onto the stool. McGonagall dropped the hat onto her head and Draco watched as it fell over her eyes. A moment passed and then the hat cried, “Hufflepuff!” The girl hopped off the stool to the sounds of cheering from a table on the right. Draco scoffed and shook his head.

“Bones, Susan!” McGonagall called.

The hat went over the head of a girl with curly, red-blonde hair, and once again a moment passed before it shouted, “Hufflepuff!” Cheers erupted from the right again as Susan hopped off the stool and scurried over to the table to sit next to Hannah.

“Boot, Terry!”

“Ravenclaw!”

This time a table to the left erupted in cheers as a few Ravenclaws bounded out of their seats to shake Terry’s hand as he sat down amongst them.

“Brown, Lavender!”

“Gryffindor!”

Draco winced as the Gryffindor table, which was pressed all the way on the left side of the hall, erupted in raucous cheers and clapping. He saw the two red-haired twins cup their hands over their mouths and let out loud whoops as Lavender skipped over to the table and sat down.

“Bulstrode, Millicent!”

“Slytherin!”

Draco smiled as a table pressed against the right wall of the hall erupted into cheers. Millicent smiled haughtily as she climbed down from the stool and dashed in their direction. As McGonagall continued to list names, Draco felt himself starting to zone out, especially when the hat took longer to decide on some students over others. Such was the case of “Longbottom, Neville!” the same boy who Draco had scared so easily on the train.

It was understandable though, considering that in his hurry to get up the stairs to the stool, Neville tripped and almost went sprawling. Once he finally sat down on the stool, his cheeks flaming red, the hat took a whole minute before it finally declared, “Gryffindor!” The boy was so excited, he ran off wearing the hat. Cheeks aflame again as the hall filled with laughter, he walked back and handed the hat over to Morag MacDougal, who was declared, “Slytherin!” soon after.

“Malfoy, Draco!” Malfoy flicked his eyes to Pansy as he stepped out of line and wiggled his brows at her as he stepped up to the stool. Turning to sit back on it, his eyes met Potter’s who was standing in the front row of students and he smirked at him. Potter curled his lip back and Draco saw McGonagall’s arm start to lower the hat onto his head out of the corner of his eye.

Before it could even touch Draco’s perfectly slicked hair though, the hat shouted, “Slytherin!” Draco’s smirk grew into a full-blown smile as the Slytherin table clapped and cheered, a few of them even standing up and whistling, as he slid off the stool and sauntered over to take his seat among his house. Crabbe shoved Goyle’s shoulder and he hastily moved a seat down so that Draco could sit in between them, making Draco grateful for their existence for the first time in his life.

When “Nott, Theodore!” was called, all three boys immediately swung around on the bench to look. The skinny, dirty-blonde haired boy climbing the steps to the sorting hat now had been something of a controversy in the Malfoy household more than a few times. The Nott’s lived only about a mile down the road from the manor and his mother, arguably the more soft-hearted of his two parents, had brought up inviting Theo and his grandparents over for tea every other month when Draco was younger until his father had finally snapped and told her to just do it, if only to stop her pestering. Deciding that it would be better if she delivered the invitation in person, she’d asked Draco if he’d like to go with her and he’d enthusiastically said yes.

Draco had just turned five and had yet to become acquainted with Crabbe and Goyle, since he was not yet aloud to attend his parent’s dinner parties. He was eager to have at least one friend who wasn’t a house elf and basically forced to be nice to him on pain of punishment. So, unable to apparate with Draco in tow, Narcissa had walked down the hedge-lined path and then a mile down the tree-lined road until they’d reached Nott Mansion.

From what Draco could remember of that long walk, the mansion had looked inviting. It didn’t have any of the sharp edges that his own home had or hold any dark shadows in its corners. There weren’t any gates that had to be spelled in order to get through or tall, thorned bushes acting as a practically impenetrable wall to keep people out. It simply looked lived in, but not in a shabby way. It had been safe to say that Draco loved it.

Narcissa however, had turned her nose up slightly at the toys strewn about the front yard and the fountain that held numerous shining coins from child’s wishes that sat in the center of the drive. Once they’d finally reached the front door, Narcissa had rolled her shoulders slightly and cleared her throat before knocking in her precise way.

The door creaked open slightly, and a small boy had peaked around the edge of it, his brown eyes round as he had stared up at Draco’s mother. Narcissa bent over slightly and asked him, “Are you Theodore?” The boy nodded, still clutching the doorframe. Giving him her most winning smile, she said, “Hello Theodore, my name is Narcissa and this is my son Draco. Do you mind if we come in?”

The boy didn’t answer. Instead, he’d turned from the door and shouted over his shoulder, “Nan! There’s a lady at the door and she wants to come in!”

Narcissa snapped to her full height as the door was pulled open to reveal a small grey-haired woman wearing a blue gingham apron. “Theo, why don’t you go to the kitchen while I speak with the lady? I think the cookies might almost be ready.” Sure enough, just as she finished speaking, there was a ding! from behind her and Theo raced away into the recesses of the house. “Make sure you wear those oven mitts, young man!” she called after him.

Sighing, she turned back to Draco and his mother. Barely sparing a glance in Draco’s direction, she crossed her arms and said, “I knew it was only a matter of time before you came knocking Narcissa. What do you want?”

Narcissa raised one of her perfectly shaped brows at the brusque ton. “To invite you and your grandson over for tea.”

The old woman’s face became thunderous, “You want to invite us over for tea? Why? So you can indoctrinate another one of my family into the same cult that got one of my son’s killed and the other imprisoned in Azkaban?” Scoffing, she made to shut the door in their faces, but Narcissa’s hand shot out, preventing her from doing so.

“I only thought that perhaps your grandson would like a friend.”

“What my grandson does or does not need is none of your concern, Narcissa Malfoy. If you come back to this house again, you will find that he-who-must-not-be-named wasn’t the only one able to perform the Unforgivable Curses. Now, good day and goodbye,” the old woman spat before she heaved the door shut against his mother’s arm.

Draco had not seen Theo again after that.

Watching the sorting hat slide over Theo’s eyes presently, Draco wondered what had happened in the six years since he had seen him last. Of course, he had asked his mother why the old woman had hated her so much, and she’d told him that they blamed the actions of Theo’s father on them. “What did he do?” Draco had asked.

His mother was silent for a moment. “I’ll explain when you’re older.” And that had been that.

“Do you know what his story is?” Draco asked quietly in Crabbe’s direction.

“You don’t know about the Nott’s?” hissed a voice from down the table. Draco’s head turned in the direction of the unfamiliar voice and his eyes landed on an older fifth year student who had a nasty tilt to his mouth.

Turning back around on the bench, Draco hissed back, “No, what happened to them?”

“His father was one of the few pure bloods to be sent to Azkaban for working with he-who-must-not-be-named. Supposedly, he refused to use the excuse of an Imperious curse to worm his way out of it. Honestly, Malfoy,” the boy sneered, “I’d think you’d know this.”

Taken aback by the older boy’s expression, Draco twisted back around as the hat cried, “Slytherin!” and Theodore Nott pulled the hat off his head to the sound of cheers from Draco’s tablemates.

He slid onto the bench across the table from Draco and the two boys stared at each other for a moment before both looked away at the same time when “Parkinson, Pansy!” was called. Draco leaned out from behind Goyle’s massive form so he could get a good view of Pansy strutting to the stool and lifting the hat onto her head on her own, not bothering to wait for McGonagall to put it on for her.

The hat rested on her head for mere seconds before it shouted, “Slytherin!” Ripping the hat off, Pansy slapped the tattered thing onto the stool as she turned in a whirl and flounced to the Slytherin table amidst the cheers and clapping of the students. She sat down besides Theodore Nott with a flourish and he looked at her with a slightly terrified expression.

Draco leaned over the table slightly in her direction, “It would seem I’m not the only one who has the ‘look’ of a Slytherin.” She just rolled her eyes at him and gave Theo a sharp-edged smile, which made him move from slightly terrified to definitely terrified.

A few more names passed without incident and Draco was starting to feel hunger nibbling at his stomach when McGonagall called, “Potter, Harry!” The Great Hall, which had been mostly respectfully silent in the light of the sorting ceremony, now broke out into a rush of whispers.

“Did she just say Potter?”

“She couldn’t possibly have meant the Harry Potter?”

Draco couldn’t help himself as he leaned into the aisle along with the rest of the students in the hall to get a look at The Boy Who Lived climbing the steps up to the stool. The only person who looked to be unaffected in the whole room was Professor McGonagall whose expression remained impassive. Even Professor Snape, who had thus far only clapped for those who had been sorted into Slytherin, leaned forward in his chair a bit with interest as the hat slipped over Potter’s eyes.

Just as in the case of Longbottom, the hat seemed to be taking its time with this decision. As the seconds ticked by, Draco noticed that the Great Hall had fallen dead silent. Finally, the rip opened wide as the hat shouted, “Gryffindor!”

So loud were the cheers from the Gryffindor table in the silence that it felt like a bomb had gone off. The red-haired twins from the train had even climbed onto their bench to shout, “We got Potter! We got Potter!” making the students at the other tables scowl and mutter amongst themselves. The cheering went on for so long after Potter had sat down that McGonagall had to call for order twice.

Scowling at the audacity of the students on the left side of the room, she continued down her list of names. Draco propped his chin on his fist as the last few names were read and sorted. As the last boy, “Zabini, Blaise!” was called forward up the steps, he heard a few sighs of relief from the older students around him and found himself agreeing with the sentiment wholeheartedly. It seemed like ages ago that he’d eaten his last pumpkin pasty on the train.

Thankfully, the sorting hat didn’t take too long in its decision as it cried, “Slytherin!” almost as soon as it had touched the boy’s scalp. Smiling, Zabini gracefully climbed down from the stool and sauntered to the Slytherin table amidst the cheers of the Slytherins, and a few even from the other tables, presumably due to the fact that everyone was starving.

McGonagall promptly gathered up the stool and the hat and carried them out of the room as Professor Dumbledore stood and raised his arms as if to embrace the whole hall. “Welcome to the start of a new year at Hogwarts! If I could only hold your attention for a few more minutes to get some important announcements out of the way before we all become lost to the gluttony that awaits us!”

Draco heard more than a few groans of protest around the hall, which seemed to only make Dumbledore’s smile grow wider. “First years, as well as a few of our older students, should note that the forest is forbidden to all pupils. I have also been asked by Mr. Filch, our esteemed caretaker, to remind our aforementioned older students that magic is not allowed in the corridors between classes. Quidditch trials will be held a month from now and will be overseen by Madam Hooch, so please contact her if you wish to play.” Dumbledore’s eyes lost a bit of their sparkle as he said a touch more gravely, “And finally, the third-floor corridor on the right-hand side is out of bounds for all those who do not wish to die a most gruesome death.” Some of the students laughed at this while most looked at each other in confusion. “Now,” Dumbledore said, the effervescent smile returning to his face, “let us eat!”

The students cheered as he gave a wave of his hand and the golden dishes suddenly piled high with every food imaginable. Draco whooped and dug in.

An hour or so later when the last dish had been magically cleared, Dumbledore stood and clapped twice, “Alright! Off to bed now!”

There was a great scraping and scuffing sound as students all around the hall stood and stretched after sitting for so long. The Slytherin first years all stood, grouped as one as a tall, brown skinned girl stepped up to their little group with a warm smile, “Hello everyone, my name is Danai Shafiq and I’m one of the prefects for our house. If you wouldn’t mind following me, I can show you all to our common room.” She led them through the crowd of other students, heading off into the directions of their dormitories.

Many turned to the right after leaving the Great Hall to continue on to the upper levels of the castle. The Slytherins, however, split from the main group of students and began to head downwards into the lower floors. A few of the portraits waved at them as they passed, and Pansy waved back good naturedly. “Why are you doing that?” Draco whispered to her.

“I heard that some of them will help you cheat on your homework if you pay them enough attention,” she whispered back. Draco shrugged and joined her.

After traversing down a length of crisscrossing corridors, Danai finally pulled them up short and allowed other Slytherin students to go on ahead of them through a rectangular hole in the stone wall framed by two suits of armor. The door closed with a snick and Draco’s eyes widened as its edges lined up perfectly with the surrounding stone wall, making it disappear before his eyes.

Danai smiled warmly at them again upon seeing their confusion. “I know that this now looks like any other stretch of wall that we passed coming down here. But don’t fear, when you want to find the entrance to our common room simply find these two knights.” Upon closer examination, Draco saw that the crest on their shields was not the Hogwarts crest, but that of a twisted serpent, its fangs bared as its head reared back to strike out at its foes. The suit of armor standing to the right of the hidden doorway had its left hand extended, palm facing upwards.

“Now,” Danai continued, “listen closely.” She stepped forward and laid her right hand, palm facing down, against the extended metal forearm. Grasping the cool metal firmly in her fingers, the group of first years watching her gasped as the metal fingers creaked to life and wrapped around her forearm in turn. Lifting her chin imperiously, Danai hissed something and the suit of armor nodded once as it released her arm and the wall swung open. Danai led them through the doorway and out onto a balcony. Stepping up to the stone railing, Draco looked down into the Slytherin common room with the rest of the first years.

There were numerous plush, emerald green couches and chairs grouped around circular mahogany tables and sat in front of massive fireplaces that were still crackling merrily despite the late hour. The balcony jutted above, encircling the room to give access to the various small hallways that branched off from it down which tall shelves lined the walls. Some held books, both new and old, while others held various trophies and knickknacks, stone chess sets, and potion supplies. Sitting before each break of wall between the upper floor hallways were marble busts of famous Slytherins and past heads of house. Looking across from the balcony to the stairs that descended to the common room below, Draco saw a massive set of windows that looked out into pitch blackness behind them. On either side of the staircase, just as in the entrance hall, lay two descending staircases lined with torches.

Breaking their awed silence, Danai cleared her throat, bringing the group’s attention back to her. “Can any of you tell me the language I used to get through the door a few moments ago?”

“Parseltongue,” Draco said, “It’s snake language.”

She beamed at him, “Yes, Draco, good job. Now can any of you repeat back to me what I said?”

This time her question was met with silence.

Nodding in understanding, she said, “That’s okay! As far as we know, speaking parseltongue is an extremely rare trait that only a few witches and wizards have been known to have, including our patriarch Salazar Slytherin. That’s why it is used when anyone wishes to gain access to our common room.”

“So how do you know if you’re even saying anything when you try to get in?” Millicent asked, “Wouldn’t any old funny hissing sound do if none of you know what you’re saying?”

Danai chuckled, “A good question! Our head of house, Professor Snape, gives us a new password every few months from a book of translations that Salazar himself left behind to be passed down to each new head of house for the very purpose of keeping our common room safe from outsiders.”

“So, what did you say to the knight?” Theo asked from where he stood beside Zabini.

She made the hissing sound again and then said simply, “It means ‘serpent’s scales’. Now repeat after me.” Danai repeated the hissing, and Draco rolled the sounds around in his mouth along with the other first years. She had them do this several more times before she was satisfied with their chorus of hissing. Clapping her hands together she said, “Great! Tomorrow morning, if you’re still not sure of how to say it, just find me at breakfast before classes start.” Waving them to follow her, she walked around the balcony until she reached the descending staircase that led to the common room proper. As they walked down the stairs, Draco took a look around at the walls of the common room itself and felt his steps slowing.

There were rounded nooks in which large pillar candles stood, flames guttering low in their holders, which were shaped like twisting vines or fanged serpent mouths. Some were even grasped in the metal suckers of curving tentacles or skeletal hands. On every broad swathe of wall hung different banners that displayed the Slytherin crest along with smaller sashes strung below of the years that Slytherin had won the Quidditch championship or the House Cup. On the mantles of the fireplaces themselves stood smaller, more modern looking picture frames from those in the other main halls of the castle in which figures danced around inside.

Danai, apparently knowing that it would be slow going for the group of first years once they started to follow her, stood waiting at the foot of the stairs for them to join her. Once they’d all gathered, she spun in a little circle and said, “Now this is the Slytherin common room. This is where you can take breaks during your days here with the rest of your house in between your classes or after dinner.” She gestured towards a table along the back wall where several silver tea pots sat gleaming in the candlelight surrounded by a random assortment of teacups and mugs. “There are a few objects in here that will react more...animatedly to you than you realize. The tea service is one of them. So are the bookshelves on the upper level. If you can find just the right way to speak to them or touch them, you may find that they are more willing to give you what you want, such as your favorite tea or a book that you’ve been dying to read.”

The first years looked around the room with renewed interest, clearly wondering what else in the room had been magically brought to life. Danai clapped her hands to regain their attention and said, “But you’ll have to start discovering the other secrets of the common room tomorrow! If you’ll follow these two staircases down,” she gestured to the descending steps besides the main staircase, “you’ll find your dorms below. Boys, your room will be the last door on the left at the very bottom of the stairs, and girls, yours will be the last door on your right. Now go on, your beds await!”

Finally released, they scrambled down the stairs, some of them dividing to the left and others to the right. Rounding the corner, the black windows to Draco’s left and the wall lined with flickering torches to his right, the two groups came face to face with on another again. Realizing that the stairs separated and joined back together again at each turn, the group of Slytherin first years joined together as one entity again, the wall of glass their every present companion as the stairs continued to slant downwards.

Draco noticed in the glow of the torches that the walls were carved to resemble snake scales, as if they were running along the side of a massive serpent. After racing down each new set of stairs, the students saw rounded green doors set into the walls to the right and left of the staircase they descended. The stairs came to an end at another set of rounded green doors and the group divided again, the girls walking to the right and the boys to the left. Goyle twisted the silver doorknob, which was encircled by a snake eating its own tail and pushed open the boys’ door. Pushing aside Morag and Theo, Draco stepped into the dorm room and took a look around.

The room was shaped like a heptagon with six four poster beds arranged against each wall, leaving one wall for the circular door they had just stepped through. Shafts were carved into the corners at the top of the walls from which the lights of the chandelier that hung from the center of the ceiling glittered off of. They were likely coated in silver or gold to allow natural light to travel down into the depths beneath the castle, reflecting off the sides of the vent until it reached their room hundreds of feet below ground.

Both Crabbe and Goyle, upon entering the room, had thrown themselves down onto the two four-posters that were farthest from the door. Morag and Blaise took the remaining beds on the right, leaving Draco and Theo to settle into the beds on the left. Draco ran his fingers down the soft velvet green curtains that were patterned with stars and moons that hung from the top of his bed, and then bent down to pull the trunk from out from under his chosen bed.

Too tired to wonder at the magic that had sorted the right trunk to the owner’s bed before they had even chosen, Draco pulled on his pajamas and yanked the curtains closed around his bed. He was asleep only a few minutes after his head hit the pillow.

< Chapter 2 / Chapter 4 >

#book one #dm

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princesse-de-ravenclaw · 7 years

Text

I Know

Request: Can I request a Draco x Reader where the reader is often in the Forbidden Forest hanging out with the centaurs. One night she’s talking to the centaurs and she asks them if they’d like to meet Draco and at first they’re hesitant and like “he’s a human he might be scared of us” but eventually they give in because they trust yn. She surprises Draco with a visit to them and at first he’s really hesitant but then the all get along. Sorry it’s so specific. Much love -Ivory

AND

Hi love. Can you do a imagine where you and Draco are best friends but you end up being sorted into Hufflepuff? ily

(Draco’s P.O.V. whaaaaatttt???)

Word Count: 2,249

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As I was leaving my last class, I spotted a familiar mess of y/h/c hair and Hufflepuff robes. “Y/N!” I called after her, jogging down the hall to catch up with her. “Hey, Draco,” Y/N smiled as I finally caught up. “Hey. There’s a party in the Slytherin common room tonight, would you be interested in attending?” I ask, falling into step with her as she continued making her way to dinner. “As much as I would love that, I can’t get into the Slytherin common room, and I have other plans. Sorry,” she shrugged, offering a small smile. “I could give you the password, it’s no big deal,” I assured her. “Did you miss the part where I said I have plans?” Y/N laughed. “No, I heard it, I was just hoping you’d change your mind,” I shrugged and gave her a smirk. “Sorry, buddy. I’m busy,” she laughed, shaking her head.

“You’re too busy to study in the library, you’re too busy to go up to the astronomy tower, you’re too busy to come party with the greatest house-” Y/N rolled her eyes, and I couldn’t help but laugh before I continued. “What? Do you have a boyfriend I don’t know about or something?” I exaggeratedly nudged her. “No!” Y/N laughed. “I just have other plans,” she shrugged. “With who?” I raised my eyebrows, getting tired of her mysterious behavior. “With nobody. I’m going by myself,” she said with a shrug. “You’ve got plans… with no one?” I raised an eyebrow. “Yep,” Y/N chewed on her cheek and avoided my gaze. “Then why don’t you tell yourself that you’re really sorry, but you have to take a raincheck because your best friend invited you to a party?” I teased, poking her in the side. “I can’t, Draco. Next time, I promise,” Y/N continued to gnaw away at her cheek, but she lifted her hand to gently pat my arm.

I frowned with a huff. “What are these other plans, anyway?” I asked her, making Y/N’s eyes go wide. “I.. uh… well,” Y/N swallowed and took her bottom lip between her teeth, a sign I’ve learned after many year means that she’s doing something she’s not supposed to. “You’re doing something against the rules!” I exclaimed, throwing my hand over my mouth, Y/N’s hand quickly following. “Shhh!” Y/N hissed. “I am not!” I gave her a “Yeah, right” look. “Okay, so what if I am?” She mumbled quietly, playing with the end of her sleeve and avoiding my eyes. “You never break the rules!” I laughed, completely shocked. Y/N scoffed. “Sure I do!” “No,” I laughed, “You don’t. Ever. I’ve known you your whole life. Little miss ‘no, Draco! Don’t ride your broom when your mum isn’t home!’ ‘No, Draco! We can’t bribe your house elves to give us biscuits before dinner!’ 'I’m Y/N and I’m so nice and sweet, I’ve been sorted into hufflepuff because I never break the rules!’” I mocked, raising my voice to do my best Y/N impression.

“Hilarious,” Y/N rolled her eyes. “Well, I’m breaking the rules, and I’m about to show you how not nice I can be if you don’t drop this,” Y/N threatened, but as soon as her eyes met mine, we both bursted out laughing. “You never told me what you were doing,” I reminded her with a nudge as we entered the great hall. Y/N chewed on her lip a bit more before she finally answered. “I’m going to the forbidden forest,” she said quietly. “By yourself?” I cried. Y/N shot me a look that told me to shut up before I got smacked. “Have you lost it?” I whisper yelled. “Yes by myself. I’ll be fine,” she snapped back in a hushed tone. “You promise you aren’t going to meet up with some bloke to shag?” I lifted an eyebrow. The thought made my stomach churn. “In the woods? Ew! No way!” Y/N scrunched up her nose.

“Then let me go with you,” I suggested. “Why on earth would you want to do that? The forbidden forest freaks you out, and as you said earlier, you have a party to attend,” Y/N reminded me. “Alright, I am not afraid of the forest, and I’d rather spend some time with you than go to the party. You’ve been blowing me off for the past two weeks,” I mumbled the last sentence. I wasn’t trying to sound needy, but I missed my time with my best friend. Y/N thought for a moment. “I have, haven’t I? I’m so sorry, Draco… I guess.. I guess you could come with me,” she offered. I couldn’t help the huge grin that broke onto my face. I opened my mouth to say something, but Y/N cut me off,“ BUT! You’ll have to be on your best behavior. Quiet, gentle, you can’t upset any of the creatures in the forest. Okay?” She asked. “Okay,” I grinned. “Okay. Meet me outside of the Hufflepuff common room thirty minutes after curfew,” Y/N smiled as she sat down at her table, leaving me grinning like an idiot as I made my way to the Slytherin table.

“Oooh, look at you out after curfew,” I teased as Y/N came into view. “I have to admit, I didn’t think you’d actually do it.” “Will you be bloody quiet?” She whispered. “There are prefects still out finishing their rounds.” “Right,” I stood up straighter and tried to stifle a laugh. “Let’s go.” I have to admit, Y/N really seemed to know what she was doing. It was like the second we left a corridor, a prefect would arrive. She had the route down pat. It took a little while, but finally we were outside and on the edge of the forest. Before we entered the dark mass of trees, Y/N stopped me. “I mean it, Draco. You have to be gentle. If you frighten anything, it can get dangerous. Okay?” Y/N stuck out her pinky. “Okay,” I nodded, wrapping my pinky around hers. We both pressed a kiss to our thumbs before she let go of my finger and continued into the woods.

As we made our way through, a long howl came from the distance, stopping me in my tracks. “What,” I cleared my throat, “What was that?” “Nothing to worry about, Draco. I promise. Come on,” Y/N assured me. She laced her fingers through mine and we continued on until we could see a clearing, just up ahead. Y/N slipped her hand out of mine. “Wait here for just one second,” she instructed, beginning to walk towards the clearing. “You want me to stand here, alone, in the middle of the forbidden forest?” I whisper shouted after her. “You’re not afraid, are you?” She shot me a wink before continuing on into the clearing. I internally groaned at her ability to be playful at a time like this, but nonetheless stood there and waited for her return.

After a few minutes, she still hadn’t come back, so I moved a little closer to the hearing. I stopped when I could faintly hear voices. “Not all humans are like you, Y/N,” a deep voice said. “I know that, but he’s good, I promise. You’d like him,” Y/N assured whoever she was talking to. The other voice said nothing. “Do you trust me?” Y/N asked softly. “Of course,” the man sighed. “Let me introduce him to you. If you don’t like him, even after you meet him, we’ll leave, and I won’t bring him back. Promise,” Y/N said confidently. The girl really had a way with getting people to do as she asked. Sometimes, it still surprised me that she didn’t get sorted into Slytherin. “You’re gonna love him, he’s great,” I heard Y/N’s voice call as I made my way back to where she had left me. Oh right, she’s too sweet and loyal to be anything but Hufflepuff.

“Okay, Draco. Come on,” Y/N called as she got closer to me. “Draco isn’t here. He was eaten by a werewolf because his best friend abandoned him in the forbidden forest!” I grinned as she approached me. “You’re such a baby,” she laughed. “Let’s go.” Y/N lead me into the clearing and I gasped when I saw that we were walking up to a large centaur. “Draco, this is Firenze, Firenze, this is my best friend Draco,” I was utterly terrified, but Y/N was beaming so brightly, I stuck my hand out to shake anyway. The centaur, Firenze, looked at me for a moment before reluctantly shaking my hand. This seemed to please Y/N, as she just grinned and began to chatter with the large creature in front of us.

While the two chatted away, I mostly remained quiet. I answered when I was addressed, but I was mostly focused on Y/N. She seemed so happy, so at peace here. I couldn’t help but smile at the way she shook her head when she laughed, and the way her y/h/c shone in the moonlight. Come to think of it, everything about her seemed to glow in this light. She was stunning. Merlin’s beard, what is this? Why do I feel like this? I thought to myself. I looked at her again and realized that Y/N was easily the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen. I smiled as I realized, oh my godric, I’m in love with her. But my face fell almost immediately. I’m in love with my best friend. I am in love with a girl I’ve known my whole life… what do I do now? How do I handle this?? “Draco? Hello? Are you okay?” Y/N waved her hand in front of my face.

“Yeah, yeah. Fine. Sorry, must of zoned out for a moment there,” I shook my head. “It’s alright. It’s getting late. Why don’t we head back?” She gave me a gentle smile and offered me her hand. All I could do was nod as I took her hand. We exchanged goodbyes with Firenze and made our way back to the castle. Y/N insisted on walking me back to my common room because “she knew the prefect route and could make sure I didn’t get caught,” but by the time we arrived outside the Slytherin common room, she looked exhausted. “Draco, can I stay with you tonight?” Y/N asked with a yawn. “Uh, y-yeah. Of course,” I nodded, trying my best not to sound flustered. We used to have sleepovers all the time, it shouldn’t be any different now.

When we got to my dorm, I lent Y/N some pajamas as I quickly changed into my own. I couldn’t help but chuckle a bit when I saw how my pajamas engulfed her small body. “What?” Y/N laughed sleepily. I shook my head, “Nothing.” “Whatever,” she shrugged, climbing into my bed and snuggling into the covers. I hesitated for a minute before I realized I was acting like a complete tosser, and climbed into the bed next to her. As soon as I was under the blanket, Y/N clambered over to me and cuddled up, nuzzling into my neck and tossing a leg over mine. I tensed up at first, but quickly relaxed and wrapped one arm around her and pulled her closer, and buried the other hand in her hair, massaging her scalp until she fell asleep. “Goodnight, Draco,” she murmured against my neck. “Goodnight, Love,” I whispered, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.

That’s how it went for nearly a month, three or four nights a week, we would sneak out to the forest to talk to the centaurs, and then we would come back to the castle and she would spend the night in my dorm. I continued on, pretending that I hadn’t realized how I felt about her until I was ready to burst. I had to tell her. I looked for her during her free track, but she seemed to have disappeared. No one had seen her in the castle. I made my way to the black lake to think, and there she was, sitting by the water, looking up at the sky. “Stealing my thinking spot, are you?” I called as I made my way over to her, offering her my hand when I was close enough. “I got here first!” She laughed. “Therefore, its mine. Finders keepers,” she smiled, taking my hand and standing up. “I’m not really sure that’s how it works,” I tried to fake a frown, but we both ended up laughing.

I looked down at her, looking up at me with that brilliant smile on her face, and I knew I had to tell her right then. “Y/N, I love you,” I said as confidently as I could. “I know, Draco,” she smiled with a nod, “I love you, too.” I laughed a bit and shook my head. “No, Y/N. that’s not- I mean-” Y/N cut me off by leaning up and pressing her lips to mine in a gentle kiss. “I know, Draco,” she repeated as she pulled away. I rested my forehead against hers, unable to stop the giant smile on my face. “I love you, too.”

A/N: It’s been a while since I’ve written anything, so please let me know what you think! Also, it’s my first piece from a character’s point of view! Feedback is always appreciated, just please, tell me NICELY. I love you all so much. Thank you for sticking with me. I hope to get some more work out for you soon! Tagging my lovelies @argentinemango @kbaille92 @allertonn and @espressoo-patronum ♡♡♡

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