a snape and a Malfoy

A BROKEN AGREEMENT

The second year at Hogwarts had started off with the usual hustle—classes, Quidditch practice, and the constant tug of expectations weighing on Draco’s shoulders. But something was different this year. Something that gnawed at him every time he was around Cera.

Over the summer, Draco had convinced himself that his feelings for her were simply part of the engagement. They had grown up knowing they were meant to be together. But by the time they had returned to school, Draco could no longer ignore what was happening inside him. He wasn’t just following what their parents had planned for them—he genuinely cared for Cera. More than he ever thought possible.

And yet, something felt wrong.

Cera had always been distant when it came to the topic of their arranged engagement. She laughed off his teasing remarks about their future, and whenever he tried to bring it up, she changed the subject. Draco told himself she was just shy about it, that she didn’t want to deal with the pressure right now. After all, they were only in their second year. They had time.

But then came the conversation that would shatter everything.

---

It was a late afternoon in October, the crisp air of autumn filling the castle grounds. Draco and Cera had just finished Quidditch practice, the Slytherin team dispersing into the changing rooms. Cera, still clutching her Beater’s bat, had stayed behind to watch the sunset, her face illuminated by the dying light.

Draco, sensing the moment was right, approached her.

“Cera,” he started, his voice softer than usual, “can we talk?”

She glanced over at him, curious but not suspicious. “About what?”

Draco hesitated for a second, then pushed forward. “About us. You know... the engagement.”

Cera stiffened slightly at the mention of it, but she didn’t look away. Instead, she leaned on her bat, her expression unreadable.

“What about it?” she asked, her tone cautious.

Draco took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. He had been preparing for this moment for weeks, but now that it was happening, his chest felt tight.

“I’ve been thinking,” he began, trying to keep his voice steady. “About us. About the arrangement. And I just... I care about you, Cera. More than just as a friend.”

There. He had said it.

For a moment, Cera didn’t say anything. The silence stretched between them like a chasm, and Draco could feel his heart pounding in his chest, his nerves fraying with every passing second.

Finally, Cera looked down at the grass beneath her feet, her expression troubled. “Draco, I...”

Draco stepped closer, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m not saying you have to feel the same way. I just needed you to know. I care about you.”

Cera looked up at him, and in her eyes, Draco saw something he hadn’t expected—guilt.

“Draco,” she said softly, “I don’t feel that way about you.”