Evelyn Riddle: The Forgotten Chronicles- Book 5

Chapter 9

Chapter Nine

Evelyn stepped into the Slytherin common room, its familiar cool, green-tinted glow greeting her like an old friend. The room was quiet, most students either still returning from the break or unpacking in their dormitories. She glanced around, her heart sinking slightly when she didn't see Draco among the few students scattered around.

With a small sigh, she made her way to her dormitory, unpacking her belongings with a methodical efficiency. As she folded her sweaters and tucked her books neatly onto the shelf beside her bed, her thoughts wandered. The break had been wonderful—full of warmth, laughter, and moments she would treasure—but the idea of seeing Draco again had lingered at the back of her mind the entire time. Now that she was back, the anticipation was almost unbearable.

Once her things were sorted, Evelyn returned to the common room. She settled herself on one of the emerald-green couches near the fireplace, the low crackle of the flames offering some comfort as she waited. She crossed her legs beneath her and leaned back, her fingers drumming idly on the armrest. Every time the door creaked open, she glanced up, only to sigh quietly when it wasn't him.

The minutes stretched, and Evelyn found herself staring into the flames, lost in thought. She didn't realize how much she had missed the quiet moments with Draco until now. The way he would lean close when they spoke, his voice low and teasing; the way his eyes lit up when she laughed at one of his jokes. It was strange how his presence had become such a steadying force in her life.

Finally, the door opened again, and this time, Evelyn's heart leaped. Draco stepped through, his hair slightly tousled from the wind outside, his pale cheeks tinged pink from the cold. He spotted her instantly, and a slow, genuine smile spread across his face.

Evelyn didn't hesitate for a moment. She dashed across the common room, her footsteps echoing softly against the cool stone floor as she closed the distance between them.

Draco's grin widened as he opened his arms, bracing himself just in time for Evelyn to reach him. She threw her arms around him, and he caught her easily, lifting her slightly off the ground. Her laughter bubbled out, soft and joyful, filling the quiet space with a warmth that chased away the winter chill.

He held her tightly, his arms firm around her, as if anchoring himself after weeks of separation. She pressed her face against his neck, breathing in the familiar, crisp scent of him mixed with the faintest trace of cologne, grounding herself in the comfort he offered.

After a long moment, he gently set her back down but didn't let go. His hands slid to her waist, holding her close as he gazed down at her, his silver eyes softer than she'd ever seen them. It was as though she was the only person in the world that mattered.

"Missed me, did you?" he murmured, his tone teasing, though his eyes betrayed a rare vulnerability, as if her answer meant more than he'd ever admit.

Evelyn smiled, her fingers reaching up to brush along his cheek, her touch soft, lingering. "More than I thought I would," she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. "But now, seeing you again... I think I missed you even more than I realized."

His usual smirk melted into something gentler, a true smile that crinkled the edges of his eyes. Leaning in, he closed the small distance between them, pressing his lips to hers in a kiss that spoke volumes. It wasn't rushed or demanding; it was tender, filled with the unspoken words and emotions that had built up over the break.

Evelyn melted into him, her hands resting on his chest, feeling the steady thrum of his heartbeat beneath her palms. His warmth enveloped her, the world around them fading into insignificance as she lost herself in the familiarity of him.