Behind His Facade [Draco x Reader]

Chapter 1: Train Of Uncertainty

The Hogwarts Express chugged out of Platform 9 ¾, leaving the bustling streets of London behind.

I clutched my ticket and trunk handle, my stomach fluttering with excitement and nerves.

I had dreamed of this moment for years.

Mother and father always reminded me that these next 7 years would be the best times of my life, and to enjoy every moment.

I hope their right.

As I wandered through the train's corridors, the scent of polished wood and freshly brewed tea wafted through the air.

My eyes scanned the compartment numbers, searching for the one listed on my ticket.

"Ah, 17C." Humming to myself, I slid into the compartment, relieved to find it vacant.

I settled into the plush seat, running my fingers over the intricately carved wooden panels that seemed to whisper stories of past Hogwarts students.

The Hogwarts Express chugged along, its rhythmic motion soothing.

The open window wafted in the sweet fragrance of blooming wildflowers,

fresh cut grass,

and the faint tang of wood smoke.

As I gazed out the window, the sunlight danced across my face, casting a warm glow on my skin.

The aromas drifiting through the window mingled with the faint smell of coal, polished leather,

and the sweet aroma of treats from the trolley.

I breathed deeply, feeling the cool air fill my lungs.

The gentle rustle of trees, the chirping of birds, and the distant rumble of the train's engines created a symphony of sounds.

I watched as a herd of deer grazed in a green meadow, their large brown eyes alert but unafraid.

My eyes lingered on the rolling hills, taking in every detail of the passing landscape.

The Hogwarts Express's corridors, adorned with gleaming wooden panels and brass fixtures, seemed to stretch on forever.

As I continued to gaze out the window, various thoughts flooded my mind,

I wonder if I'll make friends easily. Family reputation can be a double-edged sword.

Will they like me for who I am or just my surname?

-

Father mentioned the Malfoys would ensure I had... accommodations.

I wonder what that meant, and then it hit me,

the conversation at dinner last week.

Father's words echoed in my mind:

"Lucius has graciously offered to... facilitate your transition to Hogwarts."

Mother smiled, exchanging a knowing glance with father.

My mind wandered, connecting the dots:

The Malfoys' influence was vast, their family ties to ours dating back generations.

It wasn't uncommon for pure-blood families to... look out for one another.

But what kind of "accommodations" could the Malfoys possibly arrange?

A special compartment?

Preferential treatment?

I pushed the thoughts aside; it didn't matter. Father would ensure my comfort and success.

Still, a shiver of uncertainty ran down my spine. The Malfoys' reputation preceded them – cunning, ambitious, and fiercely loyal.

-

As a Blackwood, Slytherin was more than just a house – my family's legacy was steeped in Slytherin tradition,

with generations of Blackwoods proudly wearing the house colors.

I naturally assumed I would follow in their footsteps.

With my assumption of being sorted into Slytherin all but confirmed,

my thoughts turned to the Malfoy family's involvement in my life.

What did their patronage mean for me,

beyond the obvious benefits of their name and influence?