Entwined Secrets

| Fallout

The morning after the article was published, the Great Hall buzzed with whispers and sideways glances. Draco felt the weight of everyone's eyes on him as he entered with Harry, Hermione, and Ron. He spotted the Daily Prophet spread out on several tables, the headline glaring up at him.

"Draco, did you see this?" Hermione asked, her voice filled with concern as she handed him a copy.

Draco read the article, his face growing pale with each word. "Pansy," he muttered, fury and hurt mingling in his voice. "She must have snitched."

Harry put a comforting hand on Draco's shoulder. "We'll get through this, Draco. They're just trying to tear us down."

Draco took a deep breath, trying to steady his emotions. "I know. But it feels like everything is crumbling around me."

Ron looked determined. "We'll stand by you, mate. We'll deal with this together."

Just then, an owl swooped down and dropped another letter in front of Draco. He recognized the handwriting and his heart sank. It was from his mother.

My Dearest Draco,

I am so sorry for the pain this article must be causing you. I never intended for my support to become public knowledge, but it seems we have been betrayed by someone close. Please know that my love and support for you remain unwavering.

Stay strong, my dragon. You are more resilient than you know.

With all my love,

Mother

Draco folded the letter carefully, his resolve hardening. "I won't let them win," he said quietly. "I'll keep fighting."

Harry nodded, admiration in his eyes. "And we'll fight with you."

That evening, Draco addressed the Unity House members. "I know many of you have seen the article in the Daily Prophet," he began, his voice steady but emotional. "Yes, I have been disowned, and yes, my mother sent me money in secret. This doesn't change who I am or what we're trying to achieve here."

He looked around at the faces of his peers, drawing strength from their support. "Unity House is about finding acceptance and strength in each other, no matter what challenges we face. We won't let this setback define us. We'll rise above it."

The room erupted in applause, and Draco felt a renewed sense of purpose. Despite the betrayal and public scrutiny, he knew he had a new family in Harry and his friends, and a cause worth fighting for.

As the meeting concluded, Harry pulled Draco into a tight embrace. "I'm so proud of you, Draco. You're handling this with so much strength."

Draco smiled, feeling the warmth of Harry's love. "I couldn't do it without you, Harry. Together, we can face anything."