Multifandom One-shots

122. A Meeting Beyond Houses - Draco x reader (Harry Potter)

Walking through the magical corridors of Hogwarts, Y/N couldn't help but marvel at the intricate design of the walls. The stones seemed to whisper ancient secrets, each etching and carving telling a story of the castle's long history. Torch sconces flickered intermittently, casting dancing shadows that added to the mysterious atmosphere.

As Y/N turned a corner, their eyes caught sight of Draco Malfoy. It was a rare sight indeed—Draco, usually surrounded by his posse of Slytherin friends, stood alone. He was leaning against the cold stone wall, his usual air of confidence replaced by a troubled expression. His silvery blond hair fell slightly unkempt, a stark contrast to his typically immaculate appearance. There was a vulnerability about him, a glimpse behind the facade of privilege and arrogance.

Y/N hesitated; their curiosity piqued by the unexpected sight of Draco in such a state. Despite the rivalry between Gryffindor and Slytherin, Y/N couldn't ignore the human connection that seemed to transcend house allegiances in moments like this.

Approaching cautiously, Y/N cleared their throat to announce their presence, not wanting to startle Draco. "Malfoy... are you alright? Is everything okay?"

Draco's head snapped up, surprise fleeting across his features, before he quickly composed himself into a mask of guarded neutrality. He stared at Y/N, his gaze cool but not hostile. "Why wouldn't I be?" he replied, his tone aloof.

Y/N observed him for a moment, noting the subtle tension in Draco's posture and the way his gaze flickered briefly before settling on a distant point in the corridor. There was something undeniably off about him—a heaviness that contradicted his usual haughty demeanor.

Speaking softly, Y/N moved closer to the slytherin boy. "You just seem... different. Is something bothering you?"

Draco's eyes narrowed slightly, a flash of vulnerability quickly hidden behind a veil of defensiveness. "And why would that concern you, Gryffindor?" He spoke up with sarcasm clear in his voice.

Rolling their eyes softly, they moved so that they were standing in front of him. "Because," Y/N spoke up calmly with a little hint of sarcasm. "Despite everything, we're all students here. We all have our struggles."

Draco looked away, his jaw tightening. For a moment, it seemed as if he might lash out, but instead, he sighed, the fight draining out of him. He ran a hand through his hair, clearly conflicted. "It's nothing, really. Just... you wouldn't understand."

Y/N sensed the unspoken weight behind his words. "Try me," they said gently, their voice inviting Draco to open up.

Draco hesitated, the usual mask of arrogance slipping further. "It's my family," he began, his voice barely above a whisper. "They expect so much from me. Sometimes I feel like I can never live up to their expectations."

Y/N nodded, taking a step closer to show their support without crowding him. "That sounds really tough. Living up to expectations, especially from family, can feel impossible sometimes."

"You have no idea. It's not just about grades or behavior. It's about... legacy. Honor. Power. Things I didn't choose but am stuck with." Draco spoke up bitterly, his gaze piercing yet holding so much hurt behind them.

Y/N felt a pang of empathy for Draco. Despite their differences, they understood the burden of expectations, though perhaps not on the same scale. They took a moment to gather their thoughts before speaking, wanting to offer genuine comfort.

"I get it, maybe not exactly the same way, but I understand how crushing it can be when you're expected to be something you didn't choose," Y/N said, their voice steady. "Everyone sees you as this perfect image, but they don't see the person behind it."