The Half-Blood Princess- d.m

VI*

draco's pov:

After leaving the note for her, I went to breakfast and tried not to show any signs of anticipation. I grabbed my usual black coffee with two sugars and a green apple, then took my seat between Crabbe and Theo. When she walked in, looking like she hadn't slept well, I noticed but chose to ignore it for the moment.

She appeared puzzled by my gaze, questioning silently why I was staring. She was infuriatingly perfect yet seemingly untouchable. Despite the turmoil of my feelings, I buried them deep inside, knowing all too well what I'm thinking: About time you own up to it, Malfoy.

She grabbed her usual breakfast and settled beside Pansy, engrossed in a conversation about their future plans, much like any ordinary girls would. I couldn't help but overhear a snippet of their discussion.

"Oh my gosh. I think I'd want, like, 2 kids, preferably girls so they can be fierce," she giggled.

As I listened, the question of who would fulfill those dreams for her crossed my mind. Shaking off my contemplations, I refocused on my own breakfast.

-----

Later that morning, a message arrived summoning me to the Manor before my scheduled meeting with Alana that evening. I Apparated there right after classes, arriving to find the imposing presence of the Dark Lord himself, along with Snape, my parents, and a gathering of Death Eaters. The atmosphere was tense, filled with anticipation and whispered discussions about plans and strategies.

"Ah, welcome, Draco," the Dark Lord greeted me as I entered.

"Good evening, Dark Lord," I replied, my tone laced with sarcasm.

"I see it is time for you to start to report to me," he stated in his monotone voice, his words carrying an air of expectation and authority.

Reluctantly, I extended my left arm, anticipating the inevitable sting as the Dark Lord's wand made contact. The pain was sharp and searing as he used the Protean Charm to brand my arm. When the burning finally subsided, I saw the dark surge of ink emerge, marking me permanently. From now on, this secret would remain known only to those involved.

I rose with a sarcastic word of praise for the Dark Lord and his Death Eaters before departing for Hogwarts. As the evening progressed, I found myself indulging in a few drinks. When curfew approached, I made my way to the astronomy tower to meet Serena. After a brief moment, I heard footsteps approaching. Quickly smoothing out my clothes, I saw Serena eagerly entering, her expression tinged with apprehension, likely questioning her decision to come.

"Hello, Malfoy," she greeted coldly, arms crossed.

"Why, hello to you too, Evans," I chuckled, unable to resist a smirk.

She was about to ask why she was there when I cut her off, pressing my lips to hers. Surprised, she kissed me back eagerly, drawing closer.

"Jump," I murmured between kisses.

She complied, jumping into my arms as I held her securely around the waist. Setting her down gently, I took her hand in mine. Hand in hand, we walked back to my dorm together.

"Darling, I didn't come here just to seduce you; I wanted to chat," I said harshly, withdrawing my hands and wiping them on my chest.

"About what?" she replied, smoothing out her clothes and sitting up with curiosity.

"You're in danger, and you don't even realize it. My father is a threat to you," I stated urgently.

She eyed me skeptically, unsure whether to take me seriously, especially after our kiss.