Harry Potter and the Daughter of Azkaban's Embrace

The Leaky Cauldron

I head to The Leaky Cauldron with the Weasleys. Arthur looked nice but I still was quiet. "So Druella are you excited meeting the minister?" I nodded "It is rare for someone to meet him for this reason." He explained. I blushed "Yes." I said softly to Molly "Are you alright dear?" I softly answered yes. Ron looked at me concerned as Fred and George did as well. Fred and George went next to my sides. "So tell us what's going on. How are things? Is Draco crying? What are your aunt's plans?" I shook my head laughing awkwardly. "Don't know."

 Arthur "You sure I know things have been... difficult." I laughed "Yes my aunt is very cautious right now." I stopped noticing the new broom the firebolt. I was amazed as I saw it Arthur looked at me. As my eyes gazed on the broom "I want one of these in the future." I thought to myself. "But when will I be able to?" 

I turned and quickly headed to Arthur "Sorry sir." I whispered, "You're quite alright, and call me Arthur." I stopped but continued to walk with him and reached the cauldron I looked Arthur opened the door everyone going in. I hesitated but I slowly walked and he put his hand on my shoulder. "I am proud of you." I looked at him he seemed genuine but I was not taking the risk. I smiled and then walked inside. I walked in I saw Harry I smiled at him. "Hi Harry how are you?" Harry "I just talked with the minister." I smiled "Wow you two." Harry "Because my Aunt Marge was criticizing my parents and I used magic and had her deflated. She was flying outside I stormed out and I got picked up so now I am here."

I laughed as he told me he looked annoyed but I wouldn't stop. Molly stepped in "Druella how about you get settled in your room." I then turned away from the conversation. "I have to go," I told Harry then I went to the room where he was. It's my room while I'm here I stopped for a minute

As I hid in the hotel room the rest of the day, the soft shower water and crackling fireplace became my refuge from Aunt Narcissa's and Mother's babying me. But even solitude couldn't shield me from the turmoil brewing outside. But I pet Morgana keeping her close laying down on my stomach.

Arthur's visits disrupted my fragile peace, his concerned expression a reminder of the chaos I sought to escape. "You've been hiding in here all day, Druella. Are you coping?" he asked, eyes piercing through my facade.   I forced a smile, uneasy under his scrutiny. "Just enjoying some privacy."  Arthur's knowing chuckle made me squirm. "I understand. But how are you handling the divorce? Narcissa and Lucius's split can't be easy."  

My defences rose, shielding vulnerable emotions. "It's... complicated."   Arthur's expression turned sombre. "And Sirius's escape? That must unsettle you."   I struggled to maintain indifference. "I'm not worried."   Arthur's gaze lingered, probing for sincerity. "You should be cautious. Sirius's actions are unpredictable. I want to ensure you're safe."   Fear crept in, entwined with uncertainty. Why would Sirius, a supposed ally, threaten me?   "Thanks," I murmured, politeness thinly veiling unease.   Arthur departed, leaving me adrift in thoughts. The Daily Prophet's headlines screamed Sirius's name, his proximity to Mother's prison cell stirring dread.

Why was Sirius near Mother's cell? What did it mean?   My mind reeled, unable to shake the feeling of being hunted. I burrowed into bed, seeking solace in darkness, but the thoughts in my head were spiralling.