Forever And Always | D.M

Chapter 2

Jolting awake in a state of panic, my body drenched in sweat. I take a moment to survey my surroundings and breathe a sigh of relief as I confirm I am still in my desired reality. As it is already half past ten, I carefully rise from the bed in order to not disturb anyone and make my way downstairs. I curl up on the couch and take a few deep breaths, calming my racing heart.

Still feeling uneasy and overwhelmed, I tiptoed back upstairs to grab my shoes and temporary wand. I was careful not to wake up Hermione and the two other girls in the process. With all the necessary items in hand, I finally made my way outside the hall.

Examining the map that Hagrid had given me, I realized that the closest area was the Astronomy Tower. I made my way down the hallway and around the corner, being careful not to be detected. As I approached the door that led to the stairs, my heart sank as I realized it was locked.

With a relieved sigh, I murmured the unlocking charm. "Alohomora" Immediately, the door creaked open, and I chuckled in appreciation of the simplicity. Stepping inside, I carefully shut the door behind me.

I tiptoed cautiously up the stairs, each step carefully placed in case someone may still be lingering in the area. Once I reached the top, I was relieved to find that the area was deserted.

Stepping up to the railing, I shivered in the chilly night air as I stared out into the darkness. I silently cursed myself for neglecting to bring a sweater. Wrapping my arms around myself for warmth, I was entranced by the stillness and grateful for a moment of peace. I didn't even notice someone enter.

Startled and afraid I would be in trouble on my very first night, I spun around faster than lightning to find Draco illuminated by the moonlight. His expression seemed to apologize, even though he didn't say the words.

Now standing before him, I felt anxious that he may be a prefect patrolling the halls. "Oh no, I apologize. I didn't mean to cause any trouble. I'm just new here and feeling a bit nervous. I just needed some fresh air and--" I stammered, not knowing what else to say.

He kept a straight face for a moment, then he couldn't help but chuckle. My expression shifted to one of confusion. "Did you think I was a prefect here to bust you?"

"Honestly, yes," I said, a hint of embarrassment in my voice.

He beamed with pride. "I am a prefect, but I'm not here to bust you."

Draco stepped closer, his towering presence making me feel small. He leaned in and whispered in my ear, "Don't worry, darling. Trouble is my middle name."

He brushed past me and stood confidently leaning against the rail at the same spot I was just moments ago. I was transfixed, unable to move as I studied him intently, trying to understand his true intentions.

"So...It's a bit of a risk being here after curfew, what motivated you to take the chance and come to the Astronomy Tower?" I attempted to start a conversation in order to get to know him better.

"As I said, trouble is my middle name." He said this time with a somber, intense gaze instead of a sly grin.

"Do you mind if I stay here and admire the stars with you?" I asked cautiously.

"Be my guest," he said, as he turned to face me briefly.

Long moments of silence stretched out, and my legs began to ache from standing. I sat down, my legs dangling over the edge, and Draco glanced at me with an expression that seemed almost contemptuous.

"What? You have an issue with getting dirty?" I said, my voice becoming tight with anger.

With a sly smirk, Draco took a seat beside me and fixed his gaze forward. He leaned in close and whispered, "My name is Draco Malfoy. And trust me, you have no idea how dirty I can be."