Echoes of Magic & Blood

Chapter 14: Confessions and Jealousy

The next morning, Anna woke with a heavy heart. The tension and jealousy were becoming unbearable, and she knew she needed to talk to someone. Draco was still asleep beside her, his face peaceful and unaware of the turmoil brewing inside her.

Quietly, Anna slipped out of bed and made her way to the courtyard. She needed to clear her mind, and there was one person she trusted to give her honest advice: Elijah.

She found Elijah in the courtyard, reading a book. His calm demeanour and wise presence were exactly what she needed. As she approached, he looked up and smiled, his eyes filled with warmth and understanding.

"Good morning, Anna," Elijah greeted her, closing his book. "You look troubled. Would you like to talk?"

Anna nodded, feeling a lump form in her throat. "Yes, Elijah. I... I need someone to talk to."

Elijah gestured to the bench beside him. "Please, sit. I'm here to listen."

Anna sat down, taking a deep breath to steady herself. "It's about Draco and Hermione. I know they're just trying to help, but... seeing them together brings up old insecurities. And Klaus didn't help by insinuating that Hermione might be trying to steal Draco away."

Elijah listened intently, his expression thoughtful. "Jealousy is a powerful emotion, Anna. It can cloud our judgement and make us doubt the people we love. But you must remember that Draco's love for you is strong. Trust in that."

Anna sighed, her shoulders slumping. "I know, but it's hard. Especially when I see them working so closely together. And now, every time they laugh or share a look, I can't help but feel like an outsider."

Elijah placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "It's natural to feel this way, but you mustn't let it consume you. Talk to Draco about your feelings. He's your partner, and he deserves to know what's troubling you."

Anna nodded, feeling a bit more reassured. "You're right, Elijah. I'll talk to him. Thank you for listening."

Elijah smiled, his eyes gentle. "Anytime, Anna. Remember, we're all here to support you."

As they talked, Draco woke up and noticed Anna's absence. He quickly dressed and went looking for her, worry gnawing at him. When he reached the courtyard, he saw her sitting with Elijah, their conversation appearing intimate and serious.

A pang of jealousy shot through Draco. He knew Elijah was just being a supportive friend, but seeing Anna confide in him stirred unexpected feelings. He hesitated, watching them from a distance, his mind racing with doubts.

Anna looked up and saw Draco standing there, his expression conflicted. She stood up, excusing herself from Elijah and walking over to Draco.

"Good morning," she said softly, trying to gauge his mood.

Draco forced a smile, though his eyes betrayed his jealousy. "Morning, Anna. I was worried when I woke up and you weren't there."

Anna reached out, taking his hand. "I'm sorry, Draco. I needed to talk to Elijah about... everything. The jealousy, the insecurities. He helped me see things more clearly."

Draco's jealousy softened into concern. "You could have talked to me, Anna. I want to be there for you."

Anna nodded, her eyes sincere. "I know, and I will. It's just that sometimes it's easier to talk to someone who isn't directly involved. Elijah has a way of seeing things clearly."

Draco sighed, pulling her into his arms. "I understand. But I can't help feeling jealous, seeing you two together like that."

Anna looked up at him, her eyes filled with love. "And that's exactly how I feel about you and Hermione. We're both dealing with jealousy and insecurity. But we need to trust each other and talk about our feelings."