The Plight- Malfoy x Reader

Caution

LUCIUS POV

Severus was starring at me as I signed documents at my desk. I ignored him, pretending I couldn't feel his eyes bore into me.

He wanted to say something but was hesitating. He stood there with his hands intertwined in front of him as he usually did when he was about to prepare a big speech.

It set my teeth on edge.

I rolled my eyes.

"Oh won't you spit it out Severus," I said tossing my pen on the desk with annoyance as I sat back.

"It's really not my place—"

"I've never known you to keep your opinions to yourself so why start now?"

He hesitated for a moment longer then sat on the other side of my desk as I rolled my eyes again, waiting with agitation for him to air out his grievances.

"I heard about your meeting with the Notts," Severus said with an even expression, "and I suspect you've also disciplined your niece further, but...Do you really think it wise? Punishing her for her...behavior?"

"Oh would you please skip to the point Severus."

"...I just think you need to tread carefully, Lucius...with her."

Irritation rose.

"What would you have me do Severus? I've tried. I have compromised with her and she still insists on breaking rules and fighting me at every turn. I have—I am trying—"

"—You are not trying hard enough Lucius!" Severus shot at me, his tone shocking even me.

He seemed to reel his anger in and, before I could ask him where the hell he had gotten the nerve, he said, "You are all strangers to the poor girl. Of course she is rebelling! She doesn't know you. She doesn't know any of you and you demand things from her left and right without even asking for her opinion."

Anger flared but I held myself back. Some part of me said to listen even if I wanted to snap back instinctually.

When I didn't respond, Severus continued, "You have to at least try to know her. Not just cage her in. I know youre scared of any harm coming to her but try to see it from her perspective. All she sees is someone trying to control her life. Try to talk to her instead. Spend time with her. All of you should. Get to know her on her terms. And—no— scolding her or telling her what to do is not talking to her."

"And what? You think doing this is going to solve these...rebellious acts?" I asked skeptically.

"She's lonely Lucius. Of course she would gladly rebel and welcome positive attention from some other boy when you are not giving her any. It's—it's bordering neglect."

My eyes went wide at the accusation but before I could object Severus clarified, "Not material neglect. Yes, you shower her with the best that money can buy and house her and pay for lessons... but you are emotionally neglecting her. And you have to ask yourself, Lucius, in what way are you acting any differently than her parents?"

I fell silent. I felt my throat restrict and guilt rise up.

...he-he was right.

Severus continued, "If you want to push her away then keep doing what you are doing. But I warn you Lucius, she'll resent you and don't be surprised if one day she cuts herself off from you completely."

I rubbed my eyes and let out an exhale.

"I don't—I don't even know where to start Severus," I admitted.

"Well... you're not completely without any knowledge. You've observed her and know what she likes."

"Yes, prancing around the forest like a deer."

Severus didn't look amused and he scolded me further, "You expect her to completely change her life to fit into yours. She is bending for you but you won't bend for her. Go out of your comfort zone. It will be good for her— and even you."

I considered him for a few moments.

"When did you become such an expert on familial relationships?" I asked with a bit of bitterness.

"You forget Lucius...I once was her."