The Doe

Malfoy

My footsteps echoed through the halls as I made my way to Defence Against the Dark Arts, my books close to my chest and smile prominent on my face. The sight of my friends met my eyes as I rounded the corner and sped my walk up in order to reach them on time.

"God, I know you're all powerful now, but maybe buy a watch?" Marlene laughed, linking my arm as we walked into the classroom behind everyone else.

I chuckled, taking my seat next to her and getting my book out. The chatter from the hall was carried on into the classroom as the students waited for the professor, books either carelessly being rested on or still packed away in bags.

"Quiet, quiet," called Professor Merrythought as she made her way from the classroom door to the front of the room, "You will now divide... into pairs. One partner will attempt to jinx the other without speaking. The other will attempt to repel said jinx in equal silence."

Her gaze latched onto me as she spoke, her words halting for a moment as she smiled.

"Now this will be easier for some.. however let that be motivation for you all to become the best."

I offered a small smile before opening my book and peering at the pages. I could feel someone watching me as I flipped the page, turning my head to meet Marlene's eyes.

"You're kidding, right?" she asked, looking from me to my book.

"What?" I frowned, sitting up straighter in my chair.

"I can't believe you're reading that like you need to," she laughed, turning back to her textbook and shaking her head as she turned a page.

I laughed back quietly as I sat back in my chair and picked my book up to read it on my lap.

"Professor Merrythought," called a voice from the doorway, one belonging to Horace Slughorn upon inspection, "I could use your assistance for a moment, please."

I frowned at him as he fiddled with his cloak sleeve, staring at her frantically.

"Continue with your studies, year 6, I'll know if you're not," our teacher stated as she walked briskly through the tables and left with the dishevelled potions professor.

"What do you think that was about?" Lily asked, spinning around in her seat to face us.

"Probably the third years blowing things up again," Marlene sighed, tutting as she relaxed in her seat.

"Well, look who's back," came a sneering voice from the front of the room, a head of bright blonde hair standing up.

I heard Marlene groan from beside me as he turned to lean on his desk so he was facing us.

"Thought you were gone for good," he smirked, folding his arms.

"Awe, well don't worry, you don't need to cry over missing me anymore, Lucius," I pouted at him, sarcasm dripping from my voice.

I watched with a smile as his face dropped and a few snickers echoed around the classroom.

"I see you've gained an attitude whilst you were away," he shot back.

"I see you unfortunately haven't changed a bit," I smiled sweetly as I tilted my head to the right.

He pushed off from the desk, a frown now clearly etched onto his face as he made his way over to me. Placing his hands on the opposite side of my desk, he leant towards me, his greasy hair falling in front of his face.

"You clearly think that you're a big celebrity now," he snarled as I smiled up at him, "let's have a quick duel and I'll put you back in your place."