The Trial ; D.M

27

25th March 2003 - Geneva's Birthday

Twenty three. Only twenty three years Geneva's been breathing and yet it's as if she's already lived the lifetime of a middle aged woman. An uncanny replica of Mrs Dalloway, if Mrs Dalloway had been a witch. Geneva had read that novel two years into her marriage and noticed the resemblance between her life and that of this protagonist's.

And now it's been four years. Four years of marriage, coming up to five later this year, though it seems unlikely they will even make it.

Theodore seems determined to make it work with her, in spite of his secret activities. Geneva makes an effort to actually speak to him now. He hasn't moved back into their room yet— who knows if he ever will? But they are civil with one another. More so like partners living together rather than a loving husband and wife.

As proof of his affections for her, he has organised a party to take place this evening to celebrate her birthday. A small gathering of their friends to rejoice in such a precious occasion— the day Geneva was placed into existence.

As for Draco, she hasn't seen much of him except for in passing. At the time of their little spat she hadn't been certain of what he had meant when he told her he was done with games. But his absence has made it apparent that what she feared has become a reality. He's done with games. Done with her.

But she wonders— hopes he will be in attendance tonight. If not only for her own entertainment, but also to confront him. To shame him.

"Who have you invited?" she asks Theodore, whilst the two of them dine together in a proper manner.

"Some of the people we know from the Ministry. You know the Cameron's, the Lane's, Madeline— not Peter though. He can't step foot here again apparently, not while Malfoy is around."

Madeline and her husband Peter split up shortly after what went down at the Christmas soiree. Geneva hasn't seen either of them since, but has only heard things through the grapevine. She feels a rush of guilt each time she thinks of it— Malfoy breaking up a marriage. It feels like a lifetime ago when all that went down, yet it has only been a few months.

"A few others from work. I sent an owl to Pansy and Blaise. They haven't confirmed whether they will be here."

"You invited them?" she asks with a slight tone of surprise. Though sometimes she forgets that Theodore is oblivious to the knowledge she possesses.

"Yes, is that not okay? I thought things were all good with them," he says, sounding particularly uneasy.

"It's completely fine. Of course. I should have assumed you'd invite them." She paints a forced smile.

"I feel it will be a good night."

Geneva gives a nod of fake agreement, she finishes up the remaining food on her plate and summons Bigsby to grab her another bottle of the muggle wine she likes.

Once the house elf pops the bottle open and pours a quarter into her glass, her attention is immediately caught by the arrival of Draco. She almost chokes on her drink. It's been a while since the three of them have sat down for dinner together.

He avoids her eyes, pointedly, taking a seat at the far end of the table. Bigsby sets his place and serves a plate of food to him.

"Malfoy, will you be joining the party tonight?" Theodore asks, pouring himself another glass of wine.

"It sounds riveting. But only if your wife would like me to be there," The way his reference to her plays on his tongue sounds so mocking and sarcastic. She scowls at him.