Bound by Blood and Magic

Chapter 12: Whispers of Change

The days turned into weeks, and the excitement surrounding the engagement began to ripple through Hogwarts like a spell gone awry. Whispers filled the corridors as students discussed the surprising union between Draco Malfoy and (Y/N) (L/N). For many, it was a tale of unexpected romance, but for others, it was simply another chapter in the storied history of the wizarding elite.

Draco felt the pressure mounting, both from his family and the expectations of the student body. Every time he walked through the halls, he felt the curious eyes of classmates on him, some offering congratulations while others snickered behind their hands. The ridicule didn't faze him; he had long learned to ignore the opinions of those who didn't matter. However, one voice echoed in his mind, more prominent than the rest: Harry Potter.

Harry, who had backed off after their confrontation, was still a constant presence in (Y/N)'s life. The two of them had grown closer in the aftermath of the announcement, and Draco couldn't shake the feeling that Harry was biding his time, waiting for an opportunity to slip back into (Y/N)'s affections.

As Draco walked to Potions class one morning, he spotted (Y/N) and Harry sitting together, deep in conversation. The sight ignited a surge of possessiveness within him. He slowed his pace, watching them with narrowed eyes. (Y/N) laughed at something Harry said, her laughter ringing like music through the otherwise dreary dungeon corridor.

Draco's heart raced, but he quickly shoved the feelings down, reminding himself that he trusted (Y/N). They had made a commitment to one another, and he had to believe she would choose him. Yet, as he watched her lean closer to Harry, he felt the dark tendrils of jealousy coil around his heart.

"Draco!" a voice broke him from his thoughts. It was Pansy Parkinson, striding up to him with her usual flair. "Did you hear the latest gossip?"

"What now?" Draco asked, trying to sound uninterested, though he could guess where this was headed.

"They say Potter is trying to woo (Y/N) back," she said, her eyes sparkling with malicious delight. "I mean, can you blame him? You're marrying her and he's got to feel threatened."

Draco clenched his fists at his sides, trying to keep his composure. "What does it matter?" he shot back. "(Y/N) chose me."

"Oh, come off it, Draco," Pansy said, rolling her eyes. "You know it doesn't matter what she chose if she's still pining after him. You can't control her feelings. You should do something before you lose her."

Draco felt his stomach churn. "I won't lose her," he said, his voice firm. "She's mine."

"Right, and how do you plan to keep her when he's always around? You have to show her that you can be the better choice." Pansy smirked, as if she had concocted a scheme in her mind. "Maybe you should make a grand gesture. Something to remind her why she's engaged to you in the first place."

"A grand gesture?" Draco echoed, his mind racing.

"Yeah! Something romantic," Pansy replied, practically bouncing with excitement. "A surprise date, perhaps? Show her that you're not just some cold Malfoy. Show her the softer side."

Draco contemplated the idea, his mind swirling with possibilities. (Y/N) deserved something special, especially with all the chaos surrounding their engagement. If he could show her how much he cared, maybe it would push Harry out of her mind completely.

The rest of the day passed in a blur as Draco formulated a plan. He could set up a picnic in the Forbidden Forest, away from the prying eyes of their peers. He'd bring her favorite foods and perhaps even a small gift-a token of his affection to remind her that she had chosen him.

That evening, as they sat in the common room together, Draco felt a surge of nerves. He had prepared a small basket filled with goodies, but he couldn't help but feel anxious about how (Y/N) would respond.