The Dark Slytherin (Trilogy)

Ch 24- The Halloween Feast and Deep Conversations

The Great Hall was awash with the vibrant hues of Halloween, decorated with floating candles, swirling black and orange banners, and a haze of magical fog that gave the room a slightly eerie, yet festive atmosphere. 

The long tables were laden with an impressive array of seasonal treats: pumpkin pasties, bat-shaped cookies, and a towering, glistening pumpkin pie. The enchanted ceiling mirrored the dark, starry night outside, creating an ambiance that was both mysterious and inviting.

Hadrian Potter sat between Daphne Greengrass and Nymphadora Tonks at the Slytherin table, their conversation punctuated by laughter and the occasional playful nudge. Daphne's presence was magnetic, her beauty even more pronounced under the flickering candlelight. Her icy blue eyes sparkled mischievously as she leaned in closer to Hadrian, her blonde hair falling gracefully over her shoulders. The low-cut neckline of her dark green dress hinted at her elegant figure, accentuated by the way she moved.

Tonks, in contrast, wore a striking purple dress that highlighted her unconventional charm. Her ever-changing hair was a deep, rich shade of burgundy tonight, complementing her bright eyes and heart-shaped face. She sat close to Hadrian, her proximity making the air between them feel charged with a playful tension. Her occasional touches were light but purposeful—her fingers brushing against Hadrian's arm or hand, lingering just a fraction too long to be considered accidental.

The feast was in full swing, and the room was alive with the hum of conversation and laughter. The ghosts of Hogwarts floated through the hall, their semi-transparent forms adding to the atmosphere. Nearly Headless Nick floated near the Gryffindor table, engaging in animated conversation with the other ghosts. The Grey Lady glided silently around the hall, her ethereal presence contrasting sharply with the lively festivities.

As Hadrian, Daphne, and Tonks engaged in their own conversation, their voices were a blend of playful teasing and flirtatious banter. Daphne leaned in, her breath warm against Hadrian's ear as she whispered, "You know, Hadrian, I was thinking about our last conversation. You never did tell us about your plans for the summer."

Hadrian's heart skipped a beat at her closeness. "Oh, did I forget to mention them?" he replied, attempting to sound nonchalant despite the way his pulse quickened.

Tonks, sitting on Hadrian's other side, smirked and gently nudged him with her shoulder. "I'm sure you did, but Daphne's curiosity has a way of making things come to light. Or perhaps she's just trying to get you to spill your secrets."

Daphne's eyes sparkled as she subtly touched Hadrian's arm, her fingers tracing light, tantalizing patterns on his skin. "Or maybe I'm just interested in getting to know you better. You've been quite the enigma this year."

Hadrian felt a flush creeping up his neck, his cheeks growing warm under the attention. "I didn't realize I was so mysterious."

Tonks laughed softly, her hand brushing against Hadrian's with a light, lingering touch. "Oh, you're definitely not boring. We're just trying to unravel the mysteries, aren't we, Daphne?"

Daphne's smile was both teasing and inviting as she leaned in even closer, her lips brushing against Hadrian's ear. "Absolutely. And the more you share, the more we get to know you."The conversation continued, with Daphne and Tonks exchanging playful glances and gentle touches that left Hadrian feeling both exhilarated and slightly overwhelmed. Their flirting was subtle but intense, filled with innuendo and double meanings that kept Hadrian on edge. As the meal progressed, the Slytherin table was joined by their friends. Theo Nott and Blaise Zabini arrived, their conversation light and animated. Theo, with his usual easy charm, regaled the table with tales of his family's latest antics, while Blaise's sharp wit added a layer of humor to their discussion.