The Forbidden Fruit

𝕱𝖎𝖛𝖊

After their moment in the hallway, Narcissa and Lucius return to the party to enjoy the remainder of the night on their own once again. Returning to where Severus and himself had been chatting before the sudden outburst on the dance floor, Lucius lets out a deep sigh before receiving yet another drink to quench his sorrows. Sinking down into his seat, not caring much for how he looks, Lucius traces the rim of his glass watching a few couples enjoying each other's embrace from afar. "I.. overheard the commotion on the dance floor earlier.." Severus says, getting Lucius's attention as he approaches. Looking up at Severus, Lucius doesn't give any reply as he takes a drink from his glass. "I assume all did not go well in the corridor.." Severus mutters as he takes a seat, studying Lucius's slumped demeanor, frowning slightly. Looking over seeing the slow dance starting, knowing it might add to Lucius's brooding, Severus offers a suggestion. "May I suggest we take a walk?" he asks simply seeing Lucius nod. Standing up, Severus follows Lucius as they leave the ballroom, finding the quiet corridors of the Manor rather comforting. 

"It's not uncommon to see you in such a stir, Lucius, but under this context.. I do have to say it has me worried about you.." Severus admits as they walk leisurely down a corridor full of paintings and artifacts alike. Glancing over at Severus as they walk, Lucius keeps his hands tucked comfortably behind him "I appreciate your concern Severus but I assure you I can handle my own.." Lucius mutters, finding Severus's concern for him endearing. As they continue to walk, they lead themselves out to the Garden, finding the night air refreshing. "The Garden is quite beautiful at night.. I've spent plenty of them wandering lost in my own thoughts time and time again.." Lucius admits as they follow a small path leading into the hedges.

Enjoying the sounds of the evening and the moon light above them, Severus admires Lucius as they walk, enamored by the contours of his side-profile. Realizing what he is doing, Severus flushes with embarrassment looking ahead of him feeling his heart racing in his chest. Noticing his gaze, Lucius decides not to mention it as they come to an open area within the hedges. A beautiful quaint courtyard with a trickling fountain in the center. Along with a weeping willow perched perfectly behind a pair of concrete benches which have a tinge of moss growing on their surfaces. "Tranquil.." Severus mutters seeing Lucius nod "Would you.. fancy a seat?" Lucius asks with a small smirk gesturing towards the set of benches. Getting settled beside one another, Lucius and Severus share a comfortable silence, enjoying the slight howl of the wind and the sound of the fountain. 

"You know, Severus.. we've known each other for quite some time.." nodding Severus smiles down at his lap "Since the first Wizarding War.." he mutters seeing Lucius nod as a smile creeps onto his lips. "We were oh so young then.." Lucius says sarcastically, letting a small chuckle slip past his refined tone. "With all seriousness though, Severus, we have known each other for nearly three-decades.. and I am amazed we have only been mere acquaintances for that amount of time.." nodding Severus looks out at the fountain. "It's been quite a long time, hasn't it?" he says looking back at Lucius seeing him nod softly. Sitting in a short silence, Lucius speaks up "Severus I must admit something rather strange that I've been feeling lately.." ensuring he has his full attention Lucius continues. "I've been..drawn to you recently and.. I have no clue as to why.." seeing Severus look at him directly in the eyes, Lucius flushes a faint pink.

"I've.. felt it too Lucius.." Severus confesses, his tone laced with empathetic resonance. Feeling validated for his hushed feelings he has kept to himself ever since they've bloomed into existence. As they share an intimate gaze, Lucius can feel his heart racing in his chest, a feeling he hasn't felt in years. "You feel it too don't you.. the rapid beat of an old heart.." Severus says poetically as he moves closer. "Sending endless ripples throughout your rib cage..like the ocean during a storm.." he says as he puts a hand to Lucius's chest, feeling the rhythm of his heart beneath is palm. Putting his hand on top of Severus's, Lucius meets his gaze "Kiss me.." he says softly and without hesitation, Severus leans in, cradling Lucius's face in his hands as their lips meet in a passionate yet tender kiss.

To Be Continued...