Entwined Secrets

| Severed Ties

The days following Lucius Malfoy's explosive howler were tense and filled with uncertainty. Draco tried to keep up appearances, but the weight of his father's anger and the constant whispers around the castle were taking their toll. Harry remained by his side, offering support and reassurance, but Draco's anxiety was palpable.

One morning, as they were heading to breakfast, an owl swooped down and dropped a thick envelope into Draco's hands. He recognized his father's seal and felt a chill run down his spine. Harry noticed his reaction and gently squeezed his hand.

"Do you want to open it now?" Harry asked softly.

Draco shook his head, his expression grim. "Let's go somewhere private."

They made their way to an empty classroom, Hermione and Ron following close behind. Draco took a deep breath and broke the seal, unfolding the parchment. As he read, his face grew paler with each word. Harry watched with growing concern, his heart aching for Draco.

Draco's voice trembled as he read aloud, "Draco, your behavior has brought nothing but shame and disgrace to our family. As of this moment, you are no longer a Malfoy. You are disowned and stripped of all privileges, including your inheritance. You will cease to use the Malfoy name and will take your mother's maiden name, Black."

Draco's hands shook, and he had to stop reading. Tears welled up in his eyes, and he looked at Harry, his expression one of heartbreak and betrayal. "He's really done it," Draco whispered. "He's cut me off from everything."

Hermione stepped forward, her eyes filled with sympathy. "Draco, I'm so sorry. This is terrible."

Ron, too, looked shocked and angry. "What a git! How could he do this to his own son?"

Harry wrapped his arms around Draco, holding him tightly. "We'll get through this, Draco. You're not alone. We have each other, and we'll figure it out."

Draco buried his face in Harry's shoulder, his tears soaking into Harry's robe. "I never thought he'd actually do it," he sobbed. "I thought maybe... maybe he'd come around."

Hermione and Ron exchanged worried glances, but they remained close, offering silent support. After a few moments, Draco pulled back, wiping his eyes and trying to compose himself.

"I guess I'm Draco Black now," he said bitterly, the weight of his father's rejection heavy in his voice.

Harry held his hand, his grip firm and reassuring. "No matter what name you go by, you're still the same person. And you're still loved."

Draco managed a weak smile, drawing strength from Harry's unwavering support. "Thank you, Harry. I don't know what I'd do without you."