Shadows & Serums

Chapter 6: First Christmas

Draco and Farrah's first Christmas together at the Malfoy Manor was a blend of enchantment and unease. The grandeur of the festivities contrasted sharply with the tension that hung in the air, especially when Lucius Malfoy, Draco's father, made his disapproving presence known.

As the evening wore on, the lavish decorations of the Malfoy Manor sparkled in the soft glow of candlelight, casting an ethereal ambiance over the gathering. Draco escorted Farrah through the ornate halls, introducing her to various guests and family members. Yet, despite the outward beauty, Farrah couldn't shake the feeling of being scrutinized by Lucius Malfoy.

When Lucius finally approached them, his demeanor was cool and imposing. His gaze fell upon Farrah with a mixture of curiosity and disdain. "Dear child... is your last name really Chutney...?" he inquired with thinly veiled skepticism.

Farrah swallowed the lump in her throat, her grip tightening instinctively around Draco's hand for support. She met Lucius's gaze with a sense of apprehension, keenly aware of the unspoken disapproval behind his words.

"I knew your father," Lucius continued, his voice taking on a colder edge. "You remind me of him... and not in a way that bodes well in your favor, my dear."

Draco's jaw tensed as he listened to his father's cutting remarks. He glanced at Farrah, his heart sinking at the hurt evident in her eyes. He squeezed her hand gently, silently urging her to stay strong despite the difficult situation.

Farrah's mood shifted drastically. The initial excitement of the evening gave way to a deep sense of disappointment and self-doubt. She felt the weight of Lucius Malfoy's disapproval like a heavy cloak, suffocating her spirit and dimming her usual brightness.

"I... I'm sorry," Farrah murmured softly, her voice tinged with regret as she loosened her grip on Draco's hand. She turned away slightly, her eyes cast downward in a mix of shame and sadness.

Draco's heart ached at the sight of Farrah's distress. He knew how important it was to make a good impression on his father, but he also understood the unfairness of Lucius's judgment. He stepped closer to Farrah, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"Don't listen to him, Farrah," Draco whispered, his voice filled with conviction. "You're nothing like what he thinks. You're... you're amazing."

Farrah looked up at Draco, gratitude and vulnerability mingling in her expression. She managed a faint smile, touched by his unwavering support. "Thank you, Draco," she replied quietly, her voice wavering slightly.

As they navigated the rest of the evening, Draco remained by Farrah's side, offering silent encouragement and a steady presence amidst the challenges they faced. Despite Lucius Malfoy's disapproval and the complexities of their surroundings, Draco was determined to show Farrah that she belonged, that she was cherished—a resolve that strengthened with each passing moment, binding their hearts together in the face of adversity.

Draco, sensing Farrah's discomfort, decided it was time to retreat from the oppressive atmosphere of the gathering. With a gentle yet firm grip, he led her towards the grand staircase.

"Come on, Farrah. Let's get out of this stuffy room," Draco whispered, offering her a reassuring smile.

As they ascended the staircase, the sounds of the party faded behind them. Draco glanced over at Farrah, noting the lingering sadness in her eyes. He wanted to see her smile again, to erase the pain his father had caused.

"You know, Farrah," Draco began, his tone light and teasing, "if I had known my father would be so awful, I would have just taken you straight to my room. It has a much better view—and no judgmental old men."