Aleatory

chapter twenty-four

I smoothed my hands over the soft fabric of my white dress, which hugged my growing belly in just the right way. Draco stood by the mirror, adjusting the collar of his white sweater, his usual calm exterior hiding the excitement I knew he was feeling underneath.

"Are you ready for this?" he asked, his eyes flicking to mine with a playful smile as he ran a hand through his perfectly messy hair.

I laughed softly, feeling the warmth in his gaze. "As ready as I'll ever be," I replied, leaning into the moment, trying to focus on the evening ahead. He looked effortlessly handsome in the casual yet put-together way only Draco could manage.

Ginny had been planning this gender reveal for weeks, making sure every detail was perfect. And while I appreciated everything she'd done, there was a part of me that just wanted to be back in our little corner of Hogwarts, snuggled under the blankets with Draco, away from the world.

But tonight was about celebrating, and I knew I had to pull myself out of that daydream, for now.

Draco walked over to me, sliding his arms around my waist from behind, his hands resting gently on my belly as he pulled me close. I could feel his warmth, the steady rhythm of his breathing, as he leaned his chin on my shoulder. "Do you think it'll be a boy or a girl?" he asked, his voice carrying that familiar mix of curiosity and excitement, even though he's asked this question dozens of times.

I couldn't help but smile, sinking into his embrace without thinking. "I really don't know," I said softly, my fingers brushing over his. "But whatever they turn out to be, they'll be perfect. Our little Slytherin or Gryffindor."

Draco chuckled, his chest rumbling against my back. "Let's hope for a Slytherin," he said, his tone teasing. "I'm not sure I could handle a house full of Gryffindors. You lot are exhausting."

I grinned, nudging him lightly with my elbow. "We'll just see about that, Malfoy."

Draco grins, that familiar glint in his eyes. "Let's get out there before we're late," he says, offering me his arm. I take it with a smile, my heart fluttering with anticipation. As he leads me to the door of our bedroom, we both pause for a moment, sharing a look that's a mix of excitement and nerves. Together, we brace ourselves as he reaches for the door handle, turning it slowly.

The door swings open, revealing the scene we've been waiting for. The room is a beautiful blur of pink and blue decorations, soft lanterns floating overhead, casting a magical glow. Ginny had truly outdone herself; delicate streamers hung from the ceiling, and the walls were lined with banners sparkling in silver and gold.

All of our friends were already there, scattered around the room, chatting and laughing, their voices a happy hum of excitement. I spotted Harry deep in conversation with Luna, her dreamy gaze focused on something only she could see.

Harry and I haven't spoken since our argument and I didn't know what exactly to do. I had already lost Ron, I didn't want to lose him too. Especially over something so petty.