A New Chapter at Hogwarts [Drarry]

Chapter 18: An Unexpected Invitation

The weekend had arrived at Hogwarts, and with it, a rare lull in the usual bustle that filled the castle's ancient halls. The crisp air outside hinted at the onset of winter, the sharpness of it biting at the skin of those brave enough to wander the grounds. Patches of frost glittered like scattered diamonds across the grass, crunching softly underfoot as the students hurried to and from the warmth of their common rooms. The sky hung low and heavy, the muted grey clouds threatening the first heavy snowfall of the season.

Inside the castle, however, the chill was kept at bay. The warmth of the fires roaring in the hearths provided a sanctuary from the cold outside. Inside Draco's quarters, the scene was one of perfect comfort. The soft crackle of the fire in the hearth filled the room with a gentle, rhythmic hum, casting long shadows that flickered across the walls. The air was rich with the scent of burning wood, mingling with the aromatic fragrance of freshly brewed tea that sat on the small table between them.

Harry and Draco sat across from each other, separated only by a small coffee table. What had started as awkward conversations and tentative companionship had evolved into something deeper, more natural. Their weekly ritual of sharing tea and discussing everything from lessons to life had become a cherished part of their routine. It was in these moments, far from the chaos and expectations of the world outside, that Harry felt a real connection building with Draco.

Draco, ever the picture of elegance, was seated with his back straight, one leg crossed over the other, his posture immaculate as always. He wore a high-collared, dark green sweater, the deep colour setting off his fair skin and platinum blond hair. His eyes, a cool grey, were fixed on his tea with a quiet, contemplative expression. His expression was calm, but there was a hint of ease that only surfaced during these moments alone with Harry.

Harry, in contrast, was his usual casual self. He sat more loosely in his chair, leaning back slightly as he sipped from his cup. His hair, as ever, was an untidy mess, falling into his eyes as he glanced up, his green gaze warm with the comfort of familiarity. He wrapped his hands around his tea, taking in the warmth it offered, his thoughts drifting toward the upcoming Christmas holiday.

"I'm really looking forward to Christmas this year," Harry said, a soft smile playing on his lips. "The Burrow will be packed, but that's part of the charm. Molly will probably be stuffing food into my hands before I even make it through the door."

Draco raised an eyebrow, lifting his teacup with a casual elegance. "From what I've heard, she believes you're perpetually on the verge of starvation. How did you survive your youth, Potter? Without constant supervision, I mean."

Harry snorted, rolling his eyes in mock exasperation. "Survived is exactly the word. Honestly, I think half of the reason Molly still fusses over me is because she's convinced that left to my own devices, I'd starve to death or live on nothing but treacle tart."

Draco's lips twitched into a full smirk. "I don't blame her for being concerned. Merlin knows your ability to look after yourself is questionable at best. How many times have you had to be rescued again? I've lost count."

Harry shot him a playful glare. "Careful, Malfoy. You're one to talk. If I recall, you weren't exactly the picture of self-sufficiency when we were at school. Didn't you once get stuck in a staircase because you thought it was a shortcut?"

Draco's eyes narrowed, but there was a gleam of amusement in them. "That was entirely the staircase's fault. Clearly, Hogwarts has a vendetta against anyone with standards."

Harry couldn't suppress his laughter, shaking his head as he leaned back in his chair. "Yeah, right. Keep telling yourself that."

Draco took another sip of his tea, his smirk widening. "It's fine, Potter. Not everyone can be a reckless Gryffindor, throwing themselves into dangerous situations without thinking. Some of us actually prefer to, you know, plan before diving into mortal peril."