Ten Questions (Harry Potter x Slytherin reader)

Chapter 45

Standing beside Malfoy and a handful of Slytherins, I try my absolute hardest to remain composed. When my eyes briefly meet Draco's, I wonder if he, or anyone else in the room, for that matter, can see through me. I know for a fact that nobody knows about my involvement in Dumbledore's army, yet I can't help but feel exposed- scared, even, as my heart begins to pound furiously. 

It was only about a week until Christmas break. The year had already begun to fly by, and my stomach pooled with dread at the thought of having to return home for a week. While being with Adrian always made things bearable, I wasn't sure if it was going to be the same as it had been in the past. This time, he wouldn't be able to protect me, and although I understood why, it still hurt me all the same to know that his priorities had changed. 

A shudder crawls up my spine, and I quickly push the thought aside, averting my attention elsewhere. 

Lined up across Professor Umbridge's office is myself and a handful of Slytherins. My eyes briefly scan the recruits for the Inquisitorial squad, and I see that Draco, Crabbe, Goyle, Millicent Bullstrode, Graham Montague, and Cassius Warrington are all filed in a neat line, all of them looking particularly proud of themselves as they wait eagerly for what's next. 

I frown when I see that Pansy Parkinson is there as well, a smug look sprawled across her pug-like features. Her eyes meet mine for a moment, and her expression shifts slightly into one of fear before quickly staring straight ahead. I look at her, amused that she hasn't forgotten about the fight between us. Looking at who else was invited to join the inquisitorial squad, I wrinkle my nose in distaste and suddenly feel offended that I'm among the selections of students. 

Merlin's beard, Potter, you owe me. 

"Ah! Here they are."

Professor Umbridge beams and shuffles over towards us, silver badges in hand. Malfoy straightens and puffs his chest out, clearly excited. If there was anyone at Hogwarts who could appreciate a good badge, it was him. 

"Now," Professor Umbridge starts, moving across the row as she places the pins neatly onto the recruits robes, "joining the inquisitorial squad is an honor and a privilege. You are acting as officers for the ministry, so it is your duty to ensure the safety of this school."

 She finally gets to me, and she wavers for a moment as she pins the badge to my robes, her gaze meeting my unflinching one as she does so. For a moment, I wonder if she knows something- if she's searching my eyes for lies. Of course, when she see's none, she continues on to the next person. My muscles relax instantly, and a feeling of relief washes over me. 

"It has come to my attention," she goes on, her voice rising an octave, "that an illegal defense against the dark arts club is operating within the walls of this school." Her eyes darken, but only for a moment before her features shift into an overly-sweet smile. "This cannot happen."

There are a few grunts of agreement across the room from the students, and I nod along, trying to take whatever she's saying seriously. 

"To combat this, we will need to search the school. If any of you see anything suspicious, you must report to me. Or..." Umbridge pauses for a moment and turns to face Malfoy, who has an insufferable smirk on his face, "your leader, Draco."

Pansy squeals in delight, and Umbridge beams at Malfoy, who looks happier than ever. For a moment, I see him glance at me to see if I'm watching him. I resist the urge to roll my eyes at him and force a quick smile before shifting back to my usual, cold expression. His face is unreadable as he watches me, as if searching for approval that isn't there. 

"The reason I chose you all," Umbridge says, stopping abruptly and scanning the line of members, "is because you are the best Hogwarts has to offer,-" I raise an eyebrow when my eyes flicker over to Crabbe and Goyle- "and because you all come from respected families. The ministry thanks each and every one of you for your commitment to this noble cause. I believe that we can all truly do great things together."