𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐅𝐚𝐝𝐞 || 𝐃.𝐌

Chapter 12 - Drunk thoughts, sober mind

*Two months later*

Ivory's POV:

I heard whispers behind me but didn't bother turning to listen. Whatever it was, it could wait. I rolled over and pulled the covers over my head, hoping to steal a few more moments of sleep.

The whispers grew louder.

"Three... two... one... HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" Ginny and Hermione shouted in unison.

I jolted upright, heart racing. "Jeez, you guys scared the hell out of me!" I muttered, retreating beneath the blankets again. I had completely forgotten today was April 14th, my 17th birthday.

"Come on, Rory!" Ginny said, tugging at the covers. "We've got a surprise waiting for you in the Great Hall!"

Before I could argue, they ripped the blanket away and left me no choice but to get up. I got dressed, touched up my makeup, and followed them out of the dorm. As we walked down the corridor, the Weasley twins appeared on either side of me.

"Happy Birthday, Ivory!" Fred and George beamed.

Fred added with a mischievous glint in his eye, "We've got a special gift for you."

"Oh really?" I raised a brow, smirking as I walked between them.

They exchanged identical grins, and I instantly grew suspicious. Last year's prank was still fresh in my mind. I eyed the small box Fred handed me warily before opening it, and, just as expected, it exploded in a burst of colorful confetti right in my face.

"Fuck," I groaned, suddenly stumbling over a loose cobblestone.

"Her age didn't fix her clumsiness, I see." Ginny giggled.

"Seventeen and still can't walk straight." George teased.

Fred arched an eyebrow, eyes twinkling. "Well, she's been sneaking into Draco's dorm, maybe that's why she can't walk straight..."

I shot him a glare. "Oh, shut up, Fred!" I said, laughing as I gave him a playful shove.

Ginny and Hermione exchanged wide-eyed looks, clearly not expecting that comment. I quickly added, "That last part's not true." trying to cut the teasing short before it spiraled out of control.

We finally reached the Great Hall, and I was instantly greeted by a chorus of cheers and smiling faces. It was a nice change from the usual awkward glances I got, especially lately with all the Cedric rumors flying around.

My friends were already gathered at the table, waiting for me. Just as I sat down, Luna walked in, balancing a large chocolate cake that looked absolutely divine.

"Make a wish, Ivory, and blow out the candles!" she said cheerfully as she set the cake down in front of me.

I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and just as I was about to blow out the candles, I saw Pansy sauntering up to the table. I opened my eyes and blew them out, except for one.

Before I could fix it, Pansy casually reached out and stuck her hand in front of the last flickering flame. "Oops, missed one. Guess your wish won't come true." she said with a smirk, turning to leave.

"Fuck off, Parkinson." Draco muttered behind me.

"Lucky for you, Pansy," I called after her, "because I was wishing you didn't exist."

Her smile faltered. She scoffed and stormed off, clearly not expecting that.

"Nice one, Ivory!" George laughed, raising his hand for a high five.

Hermione and Harry burst out laughing, trying and failing to hide it. Even Draco looked amused. He leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to my forehead.

"Happy Birthday, princess." he murmured, handing me a small box.