Two Sides of the Serpent // Draco Malfoy

Chapter Six: The Cursed Necklace

As the snow began to thicken and cover the grounds in a white blanket, Draco and I continued our "normal" facade. It was an intricate dance of secrets and tricks. The necklace was concealed, just waiting for the perfect opportunity to have our plan unfold.

One cold evening, the castle was quiet and the stars twinkled up above, their shine seeped in through the high windows in the common room. We had gathered around the fireplace, the flames casted shadows dancing on the tapestries hung along the walls. Blaise lounged in the armchair, telling us a story about a mishap in Flitwick's class while Pansy's laugh filled the corner. Goyle, Theo and Enzo listened attentively while Draco sat staring into the flames, not hearing a word.

The laughter had dwindled as well as the chatter among them. I sat fidgeting with the charms on my purse, lost in my own thoughts about what was to come. Blaise leaned forward curiously and asked, "Hey, Evelyn, have you thought about going to Professor Slughorn's Christmas party?"

My attention shifted to Blaise as he mentioned the invitation. Professor Slughorn's get togethers were notorious for their exclusivity and offered a chance to connect with influential figures within the wizarding world. However, accepting such an invitation meant we had to tread carefully, considering our mission.

Draco and I exchanged a quiet glance, our shared intentions and motivations understood without a word spoken. This party was a good opportunity to eavesdrop and possibly gather some vital information.

"I've given it some thought," I responded with an air of casual contemplation, "but I haven't decided yet."

Blaise seemed content with my answer, nodding thoughtfully. "It could be a chance to cultivate connections that might prove useful. You never know who might be in attendance."

Theo, ever one to seize an opportunity, leaned closer with a playful glint in his eyes. "In that case, Evelyn, if you do decide to go, would you consider having me as your partner for the evening?"

The flirtatious offer took me by surprise, and I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. "Theo, are you asking me to be your date to the party?"

He grinned, his tone was light and teasing. "Indeed, I am. You'd be a captivating companion, and I promise to be a gentleman."

Pansy joined in, entertained by the exchange. "It seems Theo is vying for the honor of escorting you, Evelyn. You'll have to fend off his charming ways."

I mulled over the proposition, recognizing that having Theo by my side could make the evening more enjoyable. He had always been a good friend. "Alright, then, consider it a deal. Let's make this party even more intriguing."

My playful smile remained as I agreed to Theo's proposal, and the room's atmosphere had a subtle transformation. The easy banter that had filled the space now carried a bit of tension. I couldn't help but notice the shift in Draco, who had been a willing participant in the teasing but now displayed a subtle frown, his grey eyes betraying a hint of discomfort.

Theo radiated. "Excellent! It's a date, then."

Enzo had been watching and couldn't resist the teasing, "Looks like Theo's gunning for Evelyn's attention, mate."

Draco responded with measured composure, his tone nonchalant. "Pfft. I'm not bothered in the least. Evelyn is free to choose her company."

However, I knew Draco better than the others. He may seem stoic on the outside but beneath the surface, his unease was obvious. The night wore on, and our lighthearted banter resumed, though the unease lingered.

The agreement on Slughorn's soirée had brought a new layer of complexity between the two of us. Blurring the lines between our mission and our mending friendship. I couldn't help but wonder how these choices will affect our delicate balance.