Love In The Shadows | Fred Weasley x OC

Chapter 58

Chapter 58: The Threat

The bustling atmosphere of the Ministry of Magic was both invigorating and intimidating for Adhara Malfoy. She had quickly adapted to her role as an apprentice, enjoying the challenges and the responsibilities that came with it. Each day brought new tasks, from assisting in paperwork to attending meetings with seasoned Ministry officials. But as she immersed herself in her work, she could never fully shake off the feeling of vulnerability that lingered from her time at Malfoy Manor.

On this particular day, however, her focus was abruptly interrupted. She looked up from her desk, startled as she saw her father, Lucius Malfoy, standing at the entrance of her office. He was impeccably dressed, as always, and his presence radiated an unsettling mixture of authority and menace. The sight of him sent a shiver down her spine.

"Father," she said, rising to greet him, her voice tinged with reluctance. "What are you doing here?"

He stepped inside, surveying her office with a critical eye. "I wanted to see how my daughter was faring in her new position," he replied smoothly, though the underlying tension in his voice was palpable. "I believe it is time we had a little chat."

Adhara's heart raced as she realized the implications of his visit. "I'm busy with work, Father. Can this wait?" She hoped to deflect him, but deep down, she knew he rarely accepted such dismissals.

"Surely, lunch can be arranged for my daughter," he insisted, his tone firm yet deceptively calm. "I know a charming little place nearby. You can join me, can't you?"

Against her better judgment, Adhara nodded, knowing that defying him would only lead to more trouble. "Alright, I'll go," she said, masking her unease.

They arrived at a quaint little restaurant tucked away in a corner of Diagon Alley, its cozy interior offering an escape from the bustling streets. Adhara's stomach churned as they settled into their seats, the cheerful atmosphere starkly contrasting the tension radiating from her father. She tried to focus on the menu, but her appetite had vanished.

As their orders were placed, Lucius regarded her with a shrewd gaze. "How is your work at the Ministry, Adhara?" he asked, his tone casual yet probing.

"It's good. I'm learning a lot," she replied, her voice steady despite her nerves.

"Good to hear," he said, leaning back in his chair, his fingers steepled under his chin. "And how is... Fred Weasley?"

The mere mention of Fred's name sent a wave of anxiety through Adhara. "He's well. We're both busy with our respective jobs," she replied, keeping her voice as neutral as possible.

Lucius's expression darkened slightly. "You're still seeing him, then?"

"Yes," she admitted, forcing herself to meet his gaze. "And I care about him."

The silence that followed was heavy with unspoken tension. The air felt charged, and Adhara braced herself for the inevitable confrontation.

"Adhara," he began, his voice smooth but laced with an edge, "I must insist that you reconsider this... relationship. You understand the position our family holds, and associating with a Weasley is... less than favorable."

"Father, I love him," she replied, her voice rising slightly in defiance. "You can't dictate my life or who I choose to be with."

Lucius's eyes narrowed, and his demeanor shifted. "Ah, but I can, and I will. You may not be aware, but I have connections that extend beyond our family's affairs. If you continue this relationship, I cannot guarantee the safety of Fred or his family."

Adhara's heart raced as she processed his words. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.

"I mean that if you refuse to cut ties with him, I will ensure that harm comes to him and his family," Lucius said coldly, the threat hanging heavy in the air. "I already know where the Burrow is located, and trust me, I have no qualms about making an example out of the Weasleys if that is what it takes to protect our name."

Adhara felt the blood drain from her face. "You wouldn't... you can't," she stammered, her mind racing with fear. "You can't hurt them just because you disapprove of my choices!"

Lucius leaned in closer, his voice low and menacing. "I would do what is necessary to protect our family, Adhara. If it means hurting a few Gryffindors along the way, then so be it. I suggest you think long and hard about your next steps. This is not a game."

The severity of his words left her reeling. "You're threatening my happiness, my life," she said, her voice shaking. "I won't let you dictate who I can love."

A faint smile crossed Lucius's lips, but it didn't reach his eyes. "You're still so naive. Love does not conquer all, my dear. You'll learn that soon enough."

Adhara's resolve hardened. "I won't give up Fred. I won't let you control me any longer."

Her father's expression darkened, and he leaned back in his chair, a glimmer of menace in his eyes. "Very well. But know this: if you choose him, you will face the consequences. Think wisely, Adhara. I will not be so lenient next time."

The waiter arrived with their food, but the moment felt hollow. Adhara stared at her plate, her stomach churning at the threats that had just been laid out before her. She forced herself to take a bite, though it felt like chewing on glass. The rest of their lunch passed in tense silence, her father's looming threats casting a shadow over everything.

As they finished and prepared to leave, Adhara's mind raced with the weight of her father's words. She couldn't believe he would stoop so low, threatening Fred and his family simply because he disapproved of her choices.

Once outside the restaurant, Lucius turned to her, his voice smooth and chilling. "Think about our conversation, Adhara. I expect a decision soon."

With that, he walked away, leaving her standing on the street corner, the bustling world around her fading into the background. The fear gripped her heart, a knot of dread forming in her stomach. She could not let her father's threats dictate her life, but she knew that her love for Fred was now entangled in a dangerous web of family loyalty and parental control.

With a determined breath, Adhara turned and made her way back to the Ministry, her mind racing with thoughts of how to protect Fred without losing herself in the process.