Behind His Facade [Draco x Reader]

Chapter 2: Ties That Bind

As I gazed out the window, lost in thought, the compartment door slid open.

I didn't notice at first, too engrossed in my reverie. The sudden influx of cool air and the soft murmur of voices from the corridor broke my trance.

I turned to see a tall, blond-haired boy standing in the doorway, his piercing blue eyes scanning the compartment.

His gaze landed on me, and his expression shifted from curiosity to annoyance.

"Who are you, and what do you think you're doing in my compartment?" he asked, his voice cold and authoritative.

I felt a shiver run down my spine as he stepped closer, his eyes narrowing.

"Draco, Draco Malfoy." he added, as if expecting me to recognize the name.

To which I did, my heart skipped a beat.

Malfoy.

The name echoed in my mind, conjuring images of family gatherings, whispered conversations, and father's words:

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

I was finally meeting his son.

"I'm Y/N... Y/N Blackwood." I replied, trying to sound steady.

Draco's expression changed, his eyes flashing with recognition. "Blackwood?" he repeated, his tone tinged with surprise.

He took a step closer, his gaze intense.

"You're the Blackwood," he stated, his voice low.

I nodded in confusion, unsure what to expect.

Draco's eyes seemed to bore into mine, as if searching for something.

"My father's mentioned you," he said, his voice dripping with intrigue.

I felt a flutter in my chest.

What had Lucius told his son about me?

Draco's gaze lingered on me, his expression unreadable.

What did he want from me?

-

"Aren't you supposed to be...?" Draco trailed off, his eyes glinting with curiosity.

I raised an eyebrow, sensing a mix of fascination and wariness.

Suddenly, Draco's demeanor shifted. He sat down, his movements fluid, and gestured to the seat across from him.

"Come, sit next to me, we need to talk."

I hesitated, unsure if I should trust this sudden change in demeanor.

But something about Draco's gaze, a flicker of genuine interest, made me nod.

I took the seat next to him, trying to appear nonchalant despite my racing thoughts.

Draco leaned back, "So, Blackwood," he began,

"tell me, what do you know about our families'... arrangement?"

His eyes locked onto mine, searching for something.

I shrugged. "Not much, only that our families have been connected for a long time. Father's never been very forthcoming about the details."

Draco snorted. "That's an understatement. Our families are practically tied together."

I raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

"...Your father's always been... discreet. But I think it's time you knew more."

He paused, studying me.

"Our families' alliance is built on mutual benefit, Y/N. We support each other's interests, and in return, we receive... favors."

"Well, I do know that pure-blooded families do tend to help one another..." I mumbled quietly, interupted by Draco,

His smile was sly. "And you, as the next Blackwood, will be expected to... cooperate."

I frowned, slightly hesitant to follow. "What kind of favors?"

Draco's eyes glinted. "Influence, power, access to certain... resources. Our families have a long history of cooperation."

I leaned forward, my curiosity piqued. "And what's expected of me?"

Draco's gaze intensified. "As the next Blackwood heir, you'll be expected to maintain this alliance. To further our families' interests."

I felt a shiver run down my spine. "And if I don't?"

Draco's expression turned serious. "Let's just say it wouldn't be... advisable to disappoint our families."

The train rumbled on, the silence between us thickening.

Suddenly, Draco's gaze shifted, his eyes locking onto something behind me.

"Ah, look. We're approaching Hogsmeade station."

He stood, smoothing his robes.

"Shall we, Blackwood? The sorting ceremony awaits."

As we exited the compartment, I couldn't shake the feeling that Draco's words were laced with hidden meanings.