PLATINUM

"hah" - yelena belova NAVIGATION

[platinum-official]

─── MASTERLIST

HARRY POTTER

DOWNPOUR (1.0, THE MALFOY CLIQUE) / wattpad version.

4 WALLS (2.0, THE MALFOY CLIQUE) / wattpad version.

I LOVE YOU (3.0, THE CHILDREN OF MALFOY CLIQUE) / wattpad version.

LOVE REMAINS (MATTHEO RIDDLE) / wattpad version

─── TWILIGHT

WOLF PACK

SKAM

PLATINUM AGENCY (SKAM x OCs)

─── ❥ PLATINUM GIRLS

─── ☾ PLATINUM BOYS

WEDNESDAY

AJAX PETROPOLUS

MARVEL

BUCKY BARNES / THE WINTER SOLDIER

MANHWA INSPIRED

THE FIRST DAUGHTER

[mooooosa]

When Heize realized her daughter was in trouble

[prettyrapstars]

[platinum-official]

01 : THE BRIDGE

This was the same spot three years ago.

The five-year-old girl clutched her little teddy bear tightly in her arms. She always did this when her bedtime arrived. After her mother tucked her in, nighttime became her favourite time.

Not because tomorrow would be another new day, but because she would get to spend more time with her mother.

It was strange for four-year-old Evanora. She only got to spend more time with her mother at night. She wasn't allowed to get close to her mother during the daylight. Little Evanora always saw her mother with her father, closed; but a strange close.

But she didn't think anything was wrong; she was just four.

Just as little Evanora was about to drift off to sleep, she heard the door squeak. There stood the three-year-old boy with his little bunny in his arms, standing at the door.

He was sobbing quietly, which snapped Evanora out of her daze.

"No, no, don't cry, Theo!" She jumped down from her bed, pulling Theo into the room while quietly shutting the door. She knew they would both be in trouble if they were caught not asleep.

There was a strange rule in the Nott family: no one was allowed to leave the room after midnight, a rule imposed by their father.

Again, Evanora didn't ask many questions.

"What happened?" She whispered while wiping the tears that were continuously rolling down his cheeks. Little Theo was hyperventilating slightly.

"Mother—" Sobs "—Father" —Sobs "—Screaming" —Sobs "—Crash."

Evanora gulped slightly; she felt like crying seeing her little brother's state, but she held back her tears as she pulled little Theo into her arms, hugging him tightly.

"I don't want to sleep all alone, Evy." Little Theo clung onto her before looking up at her with pleading eyes.

"Can I please sleep with you? I promise I will play with you."

"If you're not going to eat those–

Evanora used her spoon to prevent Grayson from taking the pancakes from her own plate. Grayson's eyes widened, somewhat surprised by his niece's early morning strength. He thought he spotted a chance after seeing her dazing onto her own plate.

"I was just wondering if you're not going to eat the pancake," Grayson pouted slightly. "No need to get aggressive."

A spatula with a fresh pancake was placed on Grayson's plate. "You should ask instead of stealing Eva's food, Gray," Susan remarked, raising an eyebrow towards her husband.

"Yeah, Uncle. Stop stealing people's food!" Evanora teased, all the while taking a piece of pancake from Grayson's plate, earning a very confused look from him. This caused the two women to chuckle.

There was never a day that the small family did not start with laughter. Evanora had learned that her aunt and uncle were a loving couple, so loving that Evanora had to warn them about public displays of affection at first.

Eventually, the couple and Evanora got the hang of it.

Evanora wasn't fond of loving gestures at first. She hadn't been raised in a loving family, which included both of her parents.

Evanora could only remember her own happy family, which consisted of her mother, herself, and little Theo. Her father was not present at all.

Perhaps because she had pushed the times she had with her father to the back of her mind, as if she were trying to erase her memory of him.

"We need to step in, Su," Grayson said, shaking Evanora from her thoughts. Her eyes fell toward Susan, who was reading the newspaper.

"What is it?" Evanora inquired, her head peering into where the two adults were reading.

"The case you're handling," Susan muttered, her eyes still fixed on the newspaper. "It seems they're trying to attack the Muggles."

Evanora frowned, now with the newspaper in her sight. As she read the pages about 'the attack involving the disappearance of black-robed and scary masked men,' Evanora let out an amazed scoff.

"The fact that they didn't even bother to change those ugly-looking masks," Evanora scoffed to herself, only to be met with raised brows from the two adults. Evanora sighed. "Come on, it's obvious they're the Death Eaters."

"Exactly, Evy," Grayson sighed. "They're supposed to be gone."

"Not exactly, love," Susan folded her arms. "The only one who's gone is Voldemort. His followers aren't exactly gone." Susan made a pained expression; Evanora knew Susan was right.

It kind of made sense why Harry Potter and Ron Weasley showed up one fine night right in front of her and tried to speak to her , which she rejected and flew away.

They must have wanted to warn me about this.

"Whatever it is, we should be ready."

Susan and Grayson exchanged looks. "And unleash your magic," Evanora waved her fingers, teasing the two adults, who both called her a brat. Perfectly knowing Evanora's sarcasm; and they knew they shouldn't take her seriously.

She responded with a chuckle and closed the door of the beach house, as she headed off to work.

"And unleash your magic,"

It appeared that she never truly regarded magic seriously, ever since her own biological father banished her from the wizarding world. It was a perplexing situation; who had the authority, other than her father, to exile her from her own realm?

Just because he aligned himself with a repulsive, noseless, bald-headed figure. He wasn't even a deity; he was just a lord, after all.

Nonetheless, she found herself banished from the world of wizardry, yet she retained her wand and could still cast spells with exceptional proficiency.

Initially, she had assumed that her wand techniques and knowledge of new spells would remain stagnant. That changed when her Aunt and Uncle entered her life.

Grayson Nott, the youngest member of the Nott family and the younger brother of Theodore Nott Senior, took her under his wing. Susan Gibbon, the sister of Sarah Gibbon, did the same.

They had been forewarned a year earlier by Albus Dumbledore about her dismissal, and it struck them as a clear sign that Lord Voldemort was already amassing followers.

Without hesitation, they embraced her, personally instructing Evanora in spellcasting. In effect, Evanora received a homeschooling education from them.

Grayson Nott, who eventually became the sole surviving employee and a founding member of the Department of Defense Against the Dark Arts, managed to elude capture and dwell in the shadows during the Second Wizarding War when Voldemort assumed control of the Ministry.

Susan Gibbon, his wife, another survivor who had to hide from the Death Eaters during the same conflict, ventured all the way to America to conceal herself. Despite the challenges of leading a double life, she steadfastly maintained her connection to the wizarding world, frequently shuttling between England and America, all in the name of love.

Her deep affection for the wizarding realm persevered, even as she resided in the Muggle world alongside her husband and niece.

Thanks to the couple's diligent efforts, their names became well-known within the Ministry of Magic, especially concerning undercover operations.

As for Evanora, she worked closely with Muggles due to her unique abilities. 

She had been aware of her powers ever since her dying mother revealed them to her when she was just a young child.

Initially, Evanora had harboured doubts about her mother's claims, but her conviction grew when she was sent to live with her Aunt and Uncle in the Muggle world during Christmas time.

Nevertheless, she didn't inquire too deeply.

Each passing year, she discovered new and profound magical abilities, yet she confided in no one except Theodore, who was well-versed in the art of keeping secrets, being a reserved individual.

"You are special, my Evy. So special that you have to be careful who you trust."

"One day you will get to know who you are, and you will see the true colours of the world."

Above all of what her mother had said to her, one stuck to her till this day.

"Look after Theo for me will you? Keep an eye on him, he needs you."

It still sticks with her, and that's because she couldn't keep her mother's promise.

Evanora sighed; as her car slowed down– with the side lights being her companion in the dark night. She was being asked for assistance, to come to the Millennium Bridge where the attacks would happen.

This was the same spot three years ago.

She stepped out of the car, her Lasso of Truth hanging at her hip. A shiver ran down her spine, a reminder that the nights were growing colder with each passing day. With determined steps, she sensed a sudden breeze against her left cheek. Reacting quickly, she drew her wand and swished it to her left, narrowly deflecting an incoming dark shadow that struck the metal railing.

Evanora's arm traced a circle in the air as she incanted, "Nebulus." In an instant, thick dark smog billowed out of nowhere, obscuring the vision of the Death Eaters who had gathered.

Unbeknownst to them, Evanora possessed formidable powers. With lightning speed, she conjured a streak of red flames that pierced through the chests of the five Death Eaters, stunning them in their tracks. One of them attempted a counter-attack, but Evanora was a second faster, disarming him with a precise "Expelliarmus!"

With his wand fallen to the ground, Evanora flung her Lasso of Truth around him within seconds, tightening her grip. The Death Eater winced in pain as the lasso emitted an intense heat.

"The daughter of Theodore Nott Senior," he managed to say, his words interrupted by the searing pain from the lasso. "Such a shame that you're hiding in this worthless world."

Evanora held her chin high, her gaze unwavering. "Your father would be proud of you if you joined us. Ah! Spare me, please!"

Evanora's grip on the lasso tightened in response to the Death Eater's pleas, causing him unbearable agony.

"Evanora!" a deep voice called out, making her release the lasso. Instantly, the Death Eater was stunned, revealing Grayson and Susan by Evanora's side.

Susan immediately had her wand up; swishing them to all five of the Death-Eaters, with their hands being cuffed with a spell. She wasn't surprised that Evanora had managed this alone; it wasn't the first time.

"You have done enough, sweetheart." Grayson had his hand on her shoulder, eyes peering onto her frowning ones; it seems that she was bothered by the Death-Eater in Grayson's eyes.

Evanora nodded slightly, somehow retrieving the lasso back.

Grayson aimed his wand at the captured Death Eater, revealing his identity. "An Avery," he muttered. "Not surprised."

And speaking of surprises and coincidentally, Evanora heard a few sounds from the back and as soon as she turned around, there revealed a group of unknown men– except for one, which was Kingsley Shacklebolt.

Evanora knew him since Grayson and Susan spoke fondly of him.

Grayson shook hands with Kingsley, indicating a friendly relationship. This was confirmed when Susan warmly embraced Kingsley.

"Evanora! Come over here for a moment!" Grayson called out. "You can look away now; the Aurors are here to take them away."

Evanora shifted her attention away as the Aurors encircled the captured Death Eaters. She approached her aunt and uncle.

"Kingsley, this is my niece, Evanora. Evanora this is Kingsley, he is now the Minister of Magic." Grayson introduced the both of them; with Evanora holding her hand out first, Kingsley welcomed her handshake.

"Nice to meet you, Evanora. Heard a lot of you from your Uncle." Kingsley smiled and Evanora rolled her eyes, somehow glaring playfully towards Grayson.

"I hope it is all good." She teased.

"Don't worry, little one. It's all good; heroic ones, actually." Kingsley turned towards the two adults before turning towards Evanora.

"Speaking of heroic," Kingsley turned towards Grayson and Susan. "The two of you are summoned in the Wizengamot."

Susan looked towards Grayson, before turning towards Kingsley. "For?"

Kingsley somehow leaned towards Grayson; somehow whispering, and judging from Grayson's clenched jaw got a hint for Evanora that it wasn't good news. He then proceeded to whisper to Susan, seeing a frown on her face.

She was silent for a second, gaze downcast until she met Grayson's. "It's for a good cause and to prove innocence. We will go."

Evanora noticed the worry in Grayson's expression, and it piqued her curiosity.

Kingsley's gaze then shifted to Evanora. "Evanora is summoned as well, as word has spread that she's earned the name 'Death-Killer Hunter'."

previous chapter (00) ⇿ next chapter (02)

'love remains' masterlist

[platinum-official]

00: PROLOGUE

"Duh! I've been banished, remember?"

With her glossy brunette hair blowing in the wind, she walked fearlessly through the city streets, her icy hands tightly clutching the inside of her leather jacket as a barrier against the cold that seemed to seep into every part of her.

Her deep crimson lipstick offered a stark contrast to the pallor of her skin, and it harmonized with the radiant glow of the city's lights.

The moon, a silvery sentinel, bathed her in its ethereal glow, casting a spotlight upon her figure as she moved with an almost preternatural confidence.

She possessed the gift of flight, setting her apart from the ordinary inhabitants of this city, yet she chose to traverse on foot. It was her way of blending in, staying connected to the world she observed from her unique vantage point.

Tonight, like every other night, Evanora adhered to her routine.

She navigated the intricate streets with the moon as her sole companion, her footsteps echoing softly against the unforgiving, cold concrete. The city's enigmas whispered to her, and she listened with a practiced ear.

With a subtle turn to the right, she slipped into a dimly lit alley, the brick walls enveloping her like a protective embrace. Here, away from the prying eyes of the world, Evanora could finally exhale with relief. The alley served as her sanctuary, a place where the city's clamor was muted, and she could let her guard down.

This was where her day concluded, where her mysterious collaboration with the NYPD on cases that defied the ordinary came to an end. Evanora was not merely a nocturnal figure; she was a guardian of the city's secrets, a keeper of mysteries that most couldn't even fathom. As she stood in the shadows, her mind raced with the knowledge that tomorrow would bring another day of uncovering the extraordinary in a city that never ceased to amaze.

However, the recent case hit too close to home. She had faced monsters, aliens, and stubborn, vengeful humans, but Evanora didn't want to believe it.

Although she had been banished from her home, Evanora prayed that her friends, her cherished school, would remain safe – a place where Harry Potter had often saved the day. 

She continued to pray, even as she received no news, from her aunt and uncle. 

All they reported was radio silence, and it had been three long years.

Evanora held onto hope, even if she no longer inquired about them from her aunt and uncle. She secretly thought of them from time to time - her friends, and especially her biological brother and his friends, who came from strict, by-the-book, and posh families. 

She worried more about them than the others, for the others might find a way to escape, but not her brother and his friends.

The more Evanora dwelled on their fate, the lump in her throat became more pronounced. She would often push it aside and continue her work, but on this particular evening, she felt herself slowing down. She sensed a breeze, her hair ruffling gently. Things happened too quickly. A hand grabbed hers, and the moment she blinked, she was levitating, as if she had teleported.

Within seconds, she realized what had happened. 

Two familiar figures stood in front of her with amazed smiles.

Evanora looked at them in astonishment, recognizing the one who had frequently saved the day and the ginger-haired one from a well-known family.

Her expression shifted to a scowl.

"You need to take me back!" Evanora demanded.

Ron gazed at Harry with confusion, as if unable to comprehend her request. Evanora paced back and forth, appearing somewhat distraught.

Harry studied her. "You don't want to be here?"

She stopped in her tracks, her gaze snapping toward him. "Duh! I've been banished, remember?" Her hands gestured wildly, seemingly unconcerned that they were in the open. However, Evanora knew she was somewhere deep in the Ministries of Magic.

Everything was happening too fast for her to process, and she partly blamed herself for dwelling too much on the wizarding world. 

In all honesty, after what her own family had done to her, Evanora preferred to be in New York.

"By the way," Ron said with a scoff, "He's gone, Nott."

Evanora scoffed. "First of all, I go by the name Evanora Gibbon. So please, kindly call me that. And secondly, We all know that, Weasley."

Evanora sighed, her hands on her hips. "With all due respect, I salute the lot of you for dealing with those Death Eaters so effectively, but... I'm sorry to say..."

She paused slightly, avoiding eye contact.

"This isn't my home anymore," she admitted in a whisper, and both of the boys could sense her sadness as she uttered those words.

"That's not true," Harry asserted as he stepped closer. 

"Don't tell me you've forgotten the memories you made with Cho, Luna, Bletchley, Sykes, Macnair, Peele. And your best friend, Briana. Don't tell me you've forgotten the magic you created with your own hands, Gibbon. Don't tell me you've forgotten your Slytherin friends, don't tell me you've forgotten about Nott. I'm talking about your brother."

Theo. Evanora's eyes were already downcast the moment Harry listed the names of her friends, who had embraced her despite her Death Eater upbringing; and he had to mentioned her brother and his friends.

"I'm sorry," she whispered.

This is for the best, even if I had to lie.

next chapter (01)

'love remains' masterlist

[hqroleplaygifs]

             *✧･ﾟ — SOFIA CARSON GIF PACK  ･ﾟ✧ *

In this gif pack, you’ll find #81 gifs of Sofia Carson in The Perfectionists 1x09. She is of Colombian descent and was around 25 years old at the time. All GIFs were made by me and are inteded for roleplaying purposes only. Please don’t claim them as your own. Reposting these GIFs or using them in your own graphics is strictly forbidden. Please, like or reblog this post if you plan on saving these GIFs, of if you found this helpful in any way, shape, or form. Thank you, and enjoy.

Warnings: Guns

⟶  GIF PAGE

[hqroleplaygifs]

              *✧･ﾟ — SOFIA CARSON GIF PACK  ･ﾟ✧ *

In this gif pack, you’ll find #106 gifs of Sofia Carson in The Perfectionists 1x10. She is of Colombian descent and was around 25 years old at the time. All GIFs were made by me and are inteded for roleplaying purposes only. Please don’t claim them as your own. Reposting these GIFs or using them in your own graphics is strictly forbidden. Please, like or reblog this post if you plan on saving these GIFs, of if you found this helpful in any way, shape, or form. Thank you, and enjoy.

⟶  GIF PAGE

[platinum-official]

CHARACTER'S MOODBOARD

THE ROYALS' OF 'SLYTHERIN'

THEODORE 'TEDDY' EVANDER NOTT

“Bring her back to me, please.”

DRACO LUCIUS MALFOY

“My biggest regret, which is following my father's orders as always; and that is cutting you off from my life.”

MATTHEW THOMAS 'MATTHEO' RIDDLE

“Merlin, if I'm given another chance, allow me to love her.”

LORENZO CHARLES BERKSHIRE

“Honestly, I don't want you to go.”

BLAISE ZABINI

“As cringy as this sounds, you were one of us and deep down, you knew that I don't give a damn about all of this blood supremacy shit.”

PANSY PARKINSON

“I hate to say this out loud but, when you were gone, it felt as though I had lost a sister of my own blood.”

DAPHNE GREENGRASS

“Thank you. You are the only person who still want to converse with us politely and be friends, with us, Slytherins.”

ASTORIA GREENGRASS

“You are like a hero; to all girls, to all women.”

THE ROYALS' OF 'RAVENCLAW'

'love remains' masterlist

[platinum-official]

CHARACTER'S MOODBOARD

THE ROYALS' OF 'RAVENCLAW' + THE GIBBON-NOTTS

EVANORA VIOLETT NOTT GIBBON [FORMERLY KNOWN AS EVANORA VIOLETT NOTT]

“I remember it, all of it.”

LEONEL LUKE BLETCHLEY

“You. Always, on my mind. Forever, in my heart.”

BRIANA SERENE WILKINS

“You don't know how much my family and I miss you, my best friend.”

ALEXANDER ORION SYKES

“Time is a thief.”

CHO CHANG

“Your return makes our team whole once again!”

JONAH MACNAIR 

“It's just me and mother.”

LUNA LOVEGOOD

“I might need assistance to feed the Thestrals.”

CAIUS 'CHARLES' PEELE

“I volunteered to fight my own blood-line, even when one knows their fate would come to an end.”

THE GIBBON-NOTT COUPLE

GRAYSON NOTT & SUSAN GIBBON 

“It all starts from home.”

THE ROYALS' OF 'SLYTHERIN'

'love remains' masterlist

[platinum-official]

LOVE REMAINS (THE SLYTHERIN GROUP)

“I can't live in a world where you don't exist.” 

Evanora, who legally changed her name to  EVANORA VIOLETT NOTT  GIBBON after being disowned by her own father due to her refusal to bear the Dark Mark, faced a challenging and estranged relationship with her family. Evanora was taken in by her Aunt and Uncle, who were the complete opposites of her own father. 

Despite their families' historical association with Voldemort, her Aunt and Uncle were not his followers. They eventually treated her as their own.

Her brother, THEODORE NOTT , pleaded with their father to spare his sister's life, a request that was granted under the condition that Theodore would have no further contact with Evanora.

Reluctantly, Theodore and his friends severed ties with Evanora during his fifth year at Hogwarts. All the cherished memories they had shared with her abruptly vanished, leaving a void in their lives.

Thus, in her sixth year at Hogwarts, Evanora was exiled from the wizarding world she had known, finding herself residing in the realm of Muggles with her Aunt and Uncle. 

She had to build her own path and make a living, using the identity of Detective Gibbon in the Muggle world after being taught in self-defense by her Uncle and Aunt who both worked for the Ministry of Magic.

Little did she realize that her fate would have a twist - being summoned back to the wizarding world, where she would have to do the saving.

the royals of 'ravenclaw' + the gibbon-notts, the royals of 'slytherin'

00 : PROLOGUE

01 : THE BRIDGE

02 : THE TRIAL

03 : DIAGON ALLEY

04 : ROYALS

05 : DRAMA

06 : DRAMA

07 : BATHROOM

main masterlist

[cafekitsune]

ANIMATED LINES | rainbow.

wheeee, just some simple animated line dividers. kinda like the one in my pinned, hahah. I recommend saving on desktop since its smollllllll 😬

please like, reblog, and credit 〜

support me through ko-fi | more dividers →

[cafekitsune]

ANIMATED LINES | rainbow.

wheeee, just some simple animated line dividers. kinda like the one in my pinned, hahah. I recommend saving on desktop since its smollllllll 😬

please like, reblog, and credit 〜

support me through ko-fi | more dividers →

[cafekitsune]

ANIMATED LINES | custom blend 001.

──────── ⵌ BLUEY ...

──────── ⵌ PURPLEY ...

──────── ⵌ BLUE-PURPLE ...

custom animated lines for @yinyuedijun ! thanks again for participating in my event 〜

ahhhhh, I love working with blues and purples heheh. I got a little carried away and so I also added another version where it combines the colours you sent me :’))) hope you like ♡ !

read my pinned for usage rules !! like, reblog, and credit if you use :)

support me through ko-fi | more dividers →

[cafekitsune]

ANIMATED LINES | myth 001.

──────── ⵌ LIGHTSEEKER ..

──────── ⵌ FORESEER ...

──────── ⵌ ABYSS WALKER ...

──────── ⵌ RELENTLESS CONQUEROR ...

──────── ⵌ FARSPACE COLONEL ...

listen …… it’s insane how much this game has consumed me. am I crying over hot fictional men ? yes. their lore is just heart wrenching. anyway ! I wanted to do their standard myth colours in my animated line collection. :’))) hope you like !

heads up, since these are soooo smolllll it’s better to save these via desktop !

blends : 001 / 002 / 003 / 004

read my pinned for usage rules !! like, reblog, and credit if you use :)

support me through ko-fi | more dividers →

[platinum-official]

13: MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE

A.N/WARNINGS ― none, just fluffs :)

SUMMARY ― Arinya takes the initiative to ask Draco to the ball through a letter.

Arinya's attention had drifted away from the conversation happening within the Slytherin group. 

Her gaze remained fixed on Draco, who sat in front of her, his hands held in hers as she tended to his wounds. It was the morning after the party, and the events of the previous night felt like a distant blur.

No one had spoken much after the party ended; there were the customary "thanks" and "great party" comments directed at Cho, the host of the gathering.

The students gradually dispersed to their respective common rooms, and the Slytherin clique had disappeared into the night. Arinya had been stopped by Cho and Luna, who advised her to return to her room before any professors discovered them.

The first thing Arinya did that morning was retrieve the first-aid kit she had hidden in her luggage, a favor she owed to Annalise's secret procurement from the infirmary.

She made her way to the Great Hall, where the Slytherin clique was known to gather early for breakfast. Arinya greeted them as usual and took a seat beside Draco without hesitation. Her focus shifted immediately to his injured hands, which had been carelessly tended to.

As Arinya began her ministrations, Draco winced, his eyes narrowing in pain. However, they softened when he met her gaze. Curiosity piqued her, and she couldn't help but ask, "What angered you so much last night?"

Draco sighed through his nose. "His mere existence."

Arinya raised an eyebrow, still tending to his injured hand. "Really?"

"Yeah," Draco nodded. "He should have perished along with his ancestors."

"That's mean." Arinya muttered; her eyes were focused onto his hand that she didn't even see Draco's expressions.

"Mean? His auntie and uncle are literally killers. Just like mine."

Arinya paused her movements, her eyes lifting to meet Draco's icy gaze. So this is what it is about. "Draco—"

Before Arinya could say another word, Draco abruptly stood up, drawing the attention of their friends. Arinya followed his movements, noticing his friends signaling for her to follow him urgently. She almost reached out to stop him. "Draco!"

But he had already apparated away.

"Please do ask him to return. I'm sure he's freezing out there," Blaise remarked to the girl.

"You know how Draco is," Elliot turned toward Arinya with a faint smile. "The lad struggles to express his emotions."

"But then again, there's you," Theodore chimed in. "You can read him like an open book, Astor. Honestly, sometimes I can't even fathom him."

"Perhaps it's because you still haven't mastered Legilimency, Theo," Lorenzo interjected, earning a sharp glance from Theodore. "I know how to do it, Berkshire. I can easily read you right now. Would you like me to reveal your thoughts aloud?"

Lorenzo widened his eyes, quickly raising his hands in defense. "It's alright; I'll just..."

"But most of the time, Draco uses Occlumency," Pansy interjected before directing her gaze toward Arinya with a broad grin. "Which means Arinya has a way of delving into his mind."

Arinya looked at them as if they were speaking a different language. She simply shook her head as they exited their final class of the day. Draco had been absent all day, which initially worried her, but according to his Slytherin friends, there was no need to be concerned.

After all, they all knew where his spot was when he needed to clear his mind.

"Thank you again, everyone," Arinya sighed with a tight smile. "See you all tomorrow."

They waved their goodbyes, and Arinya Apparated to the Astronomy Tower. She lacked the energy to walk to the other side of the castle. With a small sigh, she ascended the stairs, finding the door already open. She didn't hesitate to peek inside and saw a familiar white-blond-haired boy leaning against the railing.

Arinya managed to enter without making a sound, opting to stand next to the vacant spot.

"You shouldn't be here," Draco softly voiced. "It's already lights out."

"That goes for you too," Arinya retorted with a pout, glancing briefly at him and noticing a faint smile.

Silence settled between them as they both faced forward, with the cool breeze accompanying them, causing Arinya to shiver slightly. Draco noticed and took out his wand, conjuring a blanket. He quietly draped it over her shoulders.

Arinya's eyes widened slightly as she turned to see Draco's face approaching as he adjusted the blanket. He was so focused on its placement that he didn't notice they were just inches apart.

She nestled into the blanket and muttered a word of thanks.

"Would you tell me what's on your mind, Draco?" Arinya spoke softly, her eyes now fixed on him as she shifted her body in his direction.

Draco felt his breath catch the moment she asked. He really didn't want to share how he felt, even though he wanted to.

Draco closed his eyes, his knuckles tightly gripping each other.

Come on, Draco. Just tell her. This is the first step.

"I... I was angry at Danilo because he was trying to make a move on you," Draco managed to say, his eyes opening to meet Arinya's emerald gaze. She didn't appear annoyed, angry, or sad; instead, there was curiosity in her eyes.

Her eyes moved to his face.

"Make a move as in... physically?" Arinya asked, puzzled. "But that was—"

"No, not physically, love," Draco scoffed. "He was interested in you. As in, he's in love with you."

Arinya's eyes widened, then contorted into a disgusted expression. "That's impossible. There's no way."

"But I got even angrier when he mentioned our family," Draco admitted, his gaze shifting to his rolled-up sleeve, where the Dark Mark rested. He always felt disgusted when he looked at his arm, marked with the symbol.

"Do you think..." Draco's voice turned into a whisper as he locked eyes with Arinya. "Do you think my family are killers?"

Arinya felt her heart shatter, seeing Draco in this vulnerable state. She knew he had been wrestling with these thoughts.

"No, Draco. Of course not."

"Please don't lie to me, love," Draco's voice cracked. He averted his gaze from her.

"Draco," Arinya implored, cupping his cheeks with her hands. He hesitated for a moment, trying to hold back tears, before finally locking eyes with hers. He felt like she was bringing him back to reality.

"No, I don't think your family are killers," Arinya said, pausing, her eyes briefly flicking away before returning to his icy grey ones with a small smile.

"Do you know why I think that? They were all essentially coerced into following traditions, including you and me. Except I wasn't a true follower," Arinya chuckled softly, eliciting a faint smile from Draco.

"I genuinely believe your family, even Lucius, are good people. Lucius and Narcissa were just compelled to follow in their ancestors' footsteps, in order to avoid dire consequences."

Arinya's eyes flicked to his Dark Mark. "And you, too, Draco. You were coerced, all of you. Elliot, Blaise, Theo, Enzo, Pansy. Even if we had a choice, we would have all faced grave consequences." She whispered, her voice filled with empathy and understanding.

Clearing her throat, she continued, "So, no, your family aren't killers."

Draco's breathing became shaky. Her words meant the world to him.

"You're not a killer," Arinya reassured him.

"Thank you." Without hesitation, Draco pulled her into a tight hug, finally letting out the tears of frustration and insecurities he had been holding back.

Arinya held him tightly, feeling him tremble, even rocking him gently from side to side. She could even hear a faint chuckle from him.

They remained in that embrace for about a minute until Draco finally released her. His eyes were now bloodshot, as were his nose and cheeks, but he was smiling down at her.

His eyes had softened despite their redness, filled with affection and unspoken words.

Thank you. I love you. I miss you. I want you with me forever.

"Come on, Draco," Arinya said, taking his hand, which she noticed was incredibly cold. "You're freezing, Draco! Here—"

She wrapped the blanket around both of them, their shoulders touching. "I promised Blaise I would get you back safely. And you need to have your hand treated."

"But you've already—" Draco pointed to his heart, his usual smirk returning. Arinya gave him a mockingly stern look. He was back to his usual self.

"I mean physically, Draco! Your hand!" Arinya chided him, and Draco simply looked at her with a small smile, not minding her concern as they walked down the tower together.

That's how he knew he was utterly in love with her.

DRACO MALFOY

Closing my book with a resounding thud, I lifted my gaze towards her. 

Honestly, it's Sunday, and all I desire is to read my book and savor a cup of tea. 

There will always be girls vying for my attention.

"No," I stated firmly, shaking my head. "I already have a date."

I fixed her with a scowl, hoping to discourage her advances, as this situation was becoming rather embarrassing.

"Oh, okay," she mumbled before walking away, her Hufflepuff friends casting disapproving glances my way. 

They seemed to think that I had grown softer or something, to have the audacity to give me such looks.

I shot them a glare, causing them to hastily retreat. 

Who dares suggest that Draco Malfoy has gone soft? 

Well, I can't deny it, but I'm only soft for one girl—my girl.

The Hufflepuff was the fifteenth girl to run away crying after I declined her invitation to be her date.

"Dude, that's like... The thirteenth—"

"Fifteenth," I corrected Lorenzo, interrupting him mid-bite of his burger.

"Yeah, whatever, fifteenth," Lorenzo shrugged.

"Draco, have you asked Astor to the ball?" Elliot inquired this time, and I turned towards him. 

He was like a father—or rather, an older brother—to me. 

Elliot had always looked out for me, as well as the others. Besides Theodore, he was someone I could confide in.

"No, Adalard," I grumbled, letting out a sigh.

"The Yule Ball is just a day away," Theodore chimed in from the corner. "You're really taking your sweet time," he commented sarcastically, prompting me to shoot him a withering look.

No shit, Sherlock. 

I just... have a lot on my mind. I didn't know why I was suddenly feeling so insecure. 

It was all because of that scumbag, Danilo Avery. 

No, he couldn't destroy my inner Draco Malfoy—the cold, obnoxious, and aloof self.

"I'll ask her tonight," I declared with a smirk. "In my own way."

"And what way is that?" Blaise raised an eyebrow, and I groaned. 

"Do I need to share all my plans with you lot? Geez, give me a break." I stood up and walked away from them.

"Draco! Don't forget we're going to Hogsmeade later!" Lorenzo called after me. I had promised them that I would accompany them to buy a suit for the ball tomorrow.

I waved my hand at them, knowing they believed I wouldn't bail out at the last minute. And, of course, I could hear their usual remarks about me. ("He's having his monthly mood swings again.")

Truthfully, I had no idea what I was going to do. 

Heck, I didn't even know what to say to Arinya besides, "Will you accompany me to the ball? I love you." 

What a loser I was, Draco.

But perhaps it was better to be straightforward, right?

Sighing, I made my way back up to our common room and then to my dormitory. 

Upon entering our shared room with Blaise, I felt a draft welcoming me. 

Someone had entered my room.

How did I know? Blaise and I had set up an enchantment to prevent anyone from entering our room easily. 

But whoever had entered was clearly quite clever.

I scanned the room. Everything appeared to be in its place, exactly as I remembered it, until I did a double take. 

There was a clear glass bottle on my desk, with a letter inside it.

With raised eyebrows, I reached for my wand, just in case it was a trap. 

With a flick of my wand, the bottle began to float on its own, and the letter unfurled itself as it turned to face me.

 Dearest Draco,

You have certainly taken your time, and I find myself unable to wait any longer for your response. 

I have grown weary of declining the invitations from other boys who have asked me to accompany them to the Yule Ball. 

The other girls have urged me to take the initiative, as it is not uncommon for a girl to extend an invitation to a boy.

Therefore, I must inquire, would you do me the honor of attending the Yule Ball as my date?

Yours sincerely, 

Arinya Astor

Oh, Arinya. I held the letter in my hands.

I gazed down at the elegant script; there was no mistaking it—this was her handwriting.

Arinya had a curious penchant for writing things out by hand, even when we had house-elves more than capable of handling such tasks. 

She once confessed that it was a habit she'd developed during her time in the Muggle world. 

I couldn't help but admire her beautiful handwriting; it held a certain charm that I had grown quite fond of.

Bringing the letter closer to my heart, I couldn't help but chuckle softly to myself. 

I was fully aware of the grin that had spread across my face, even though I tried to play it off as nonchalant. 

If Blaise were to walk in right now, I had no doubt he would mercilessly tease me until the end of time.

I glanced down at the letter once more, my eyes falling on her signature just beneath her name. It was a foregone conclusion, really.

"Of course, Arinya," I murmured to myself, a sense of contentment washing over me. "I would love to go the ball with you, as your date."

"I can't wait to wear the dress!" Pansy exclaimed, her excitement evident as she revealed the levitating dress.

"All thanks to Helena," Arinya said, giving a wink to Elaina, who looked a bit shy. 

The W7SHES girls had their dresses and the suits for the performance specially made by Elaina's mother, all five of them, until Pansy received a letter from Helena personally, stating that she had made a dress for her. 

It was a surprise for both Pansy and Elaina.

Arinya was in the Slytherin common room; in Elaina's dorm room, discussing the last briefing about the performance, which was a surprise involving dancing. 

Elaina had already selected students for the performance. However, Arinya's true intention for visiting the Slytherin common room was to find Draco, who had been absent from the castle the entire day. The girls learned from their housemates that he had gone to Hogsmeade.

I should have included his tie with the letter.

Eventually, the two girls decided to call it a day, knowing they had to wake up early the next morning for the ball's preparations, especially Elaina. Arinya bid farewell to Pansy, who returned her farewell while busy doing her manicure and expressing her excitement for the upcoming event.

As they entered Elaina's dorm room and she closed the door, Elaina turned to Arinya and asked, "Has Draco approached you?" Arinya gave her a tight smile and shook her head, indicating that he hadn't.

"I wouldn't mind going alone," Arinya continued. "I mean, we always attend after-parties alone in the Muggle world, don't we?" She raised an eyebrow at Elaina, who rolled her eyes, acknowledging the truth in her statement.

They walked through the dungeon, and Elaina sighed. "But still, that goose," she muttered under her breath. "Speaking of Draco, I didn't see—"

Elaina's words were abruptly cut off with deep chuckles, as they stepped into the common room and came face to face with the very person they had been discussing. 

There came Elliot, Theodore, Lorenzo, Blaise, and finally Draco, who was at the back.

"Awesome," Arinya sarcastically remarked, and as the boys made their way towards the two girls, she wasn't afraid to make eye contact with them, noticing the wide grins on their faces.

"Oi, it's Astor!"

"Look! Our Astor!"

Arinya rolled her eyes as the boys approached, with Lorenzo giving her the usual hug. 

Elaina, curious about their absence, raised an eyebrow and noticed that some of them were trying poorly to conceal something. 

Arinya couldn't help but chuckle at the amusing situation as she folded her arms.

"Where have you guys been?" Elaina inquired, observing their suspicious behavior.

"To Hogsmeade... Just... chilling," Elliot replied, glancing at Theodore, who seemed fixated on Elaina.

"Right," Arinya muttered, clearing her throat. She didn't waste no time. "I'll see all of you tomorrow as I need my beauty sleep. So," she mockingly curtsied towards them, which earned scoffs from the boys.

"Good night," Arinya said without wasting any time, walking past them. 

She didn't make eye contact with Draco, although she sensed his eyes on her the entire time.

"Arinya!" Draco called out, taking a few steps towards her.

"I was looking for you the whole day," he said with a frown, and Arinya looked awkwardly sheepish.

"I was the one looking for you," Arinya replied, folding her arms and mirroring his frown. "But you were out in Hogsmeade with the boys."

"I thought you were out too," Draco admitted.

Arinya shook her head with an amused smile. "No, Draco. I was in school the whole day, helping the girls with their dress alterations."

Draco looked embarrassed, his hand on the back of his neck. "Well..."

"If you have no—"

"I read your letter," Draco cut her off, and Arinya's eyes widened slightly. Is he going to reject me?

"And I was actually happy that you reached out to me first," Draco continued, taking a step closer and tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. His gray eyes, which sometimes held a hint of cheekiness and coldness, now appeared soft. "I would love to go to the ball with you, as your date."

Arinya's eyes widened slightly before transforming into a wide smile.

"Thank goodness!" Arinya exclaimed, jumping onto him, and she heard him laugh lightly as he spun her around.

"I wouldn't know where to put my face if you rejected me," Arinya said once Draco let her go.

"Why would you think I would reject you?" Draco asked with a slight frown, looking confused.

"I don't know," Arinya sighed softly; avoiding his eyes for a second until she met his piercing gaze.

"This was my goal, Arinya. Going to the ball with you. My last Yule Ball with you. I want it to be with you."

previous chapter (c.12) ⟷ next chapter (c.14)

4 walls (masterlist)

[platinum-official]

12: PARTY

A.N/WARNINGS ― slight violence, cursings.

SUMMARY ― A brawl ensued between Draco and Danilo as he warned of impending danger.

A few days to Yule Ball. Arinya tied her hair into a high ponytail and wrapped a dark purple scarf around her neck. The scarf had her initials on it, a gift that held sentimental value.

Thanks to Madam Pomfrey's Skele-Gro potion, her nearly broken back had healed within a day, allowing her to return to her classes as usual.

The number of greetings she received from students of various houses, including both subtle and overt flirts, especially from boys, was unbelievably high. Luna attributed it to her exceptional performance during the recent Quidditch match. 

"You were incredibly fast, Ari! We had to use binoculars!" Luna had exclaimed.

Since the match didn't qualify, Professor Hooch had arranged a rematch between Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. This time, the Ravenclaw chaser had returned, sparing Arinya from returning to the field. Arinya was relieved, and Ravenclaw emerged victorious, leaving Cho on cloud nine. Luna had also informed Arinya that Ravenclaw was hosting a party and had invited students from different houses.

Arinya had attended parties before, but she usually left early to get some sleep. Thanks to a spell she had learned from Hermione, she could block out the noise specifically from parties and enjoy some peace and quiet. However, she had no say in whether or not she would attend the upcoming Yule Ball; Cho had already included her in the list of performers. Sighing, Arinya made her way to the Great Hall, scanning the room and noticing the Slytherin group already there.

Some of them had turned their heads toward her. Elliot nudged the arm of a white-blonde-haired boy who was engrossed in a book while munching on a green apple, earning a scowl from him. But as soon as his gray eyes followed Elliot's gesture and landed on Arinya, his scowl transformed into a small grin.

"Arinya!" 

Just as she was about to approach the Slytherin table, her name was called by Laura-Jean. She then noticed that the W7SHES girls were also present.

Arinya signaled Draco, pointing toward the Gryffindor table to let him know where she would be, and gave him a small wave before heading over to where the girls were seated.

"Hey," Arinya greeted as she took a seat beside Laura-Jean. "What's going on?"

According to Laura-Jean, Annalise and herself had been chosen for the Yule Ball committee, and Elaina had suggested collaborating with the Hogwarts Orchestra. Elaina had also discussed with Professor Rowle about starting a club for muggle music and dance, with Professor Rowle becoming the head professor and Elaina the captain of the club.

"So," Elaina turned toward the girls, "we will be collaborating with the Orchestra."

Annalise added with a grin, "And the theme is royal."

"Like a prince and princess? Fancy dresses and suits?" Arinya raised an eyebrow, and Laura-Jean nodded enthusiastically. "Exactly. And there will be prizes, two categories."

"One for the best dress," Laura-Jean continued, "and the other for the best couple."

According to Annalise and Laura-Jean, they were nearly finished with the decorations, with just four days left. The girls were also discussing the performances and which songs they would sing, with most of them voting for three songs.

Annalise suggested, "How about we all wear suits and ties? We can wear the same suit but personalize how we wear the ties. Laura-Jean could wear hers loosely to reflect her wild and free personality." She paused, and everyone knew she had something behind her words, as they discussed how they would wear their ties. Arinya, however, would wear hers more formally.

Elaina asked, "Has anyone been asked to the Yule Ball already?" She raised an eyebrow, looking at them, and Laura-Jean and Annamarie both timidly raised their hands.

"Yeah... Lorenzo," Laura-Jean said, turning toward Annamarie. "And Elliot."

Elaina nodded in acknowledgment before her gaze settled on Arinya, who seemed lost in thought. "What about you, Ari?"

Arinya sighed softly. "No one has asked me yet. I guess I'll go alone."

Elaina frowned slightly and glanced over at the Slytherin table. "How about you, Elaina? Has Theo asked you?"

"No," Elaina replied with an amused smile. "I was expecting him to ask, but I guess I'll have to make the first move."

"Yeah," Laura-Jean chimed in, looking at the two girls. "Since they don't seem to have the courage, why don't both of you take the initiative? That would be pretty bold." She smirked, nodding at her own words.

The girls agreed with Laura-Jean. They knew Elaina and Arinya well enough not to shy away from asking people out. Just as students began to leave the Great Hall for their next classes, the W7SHES girls exited, with Arinya stopping Elaina and grabbing her arm.

"What's wrong?" Elaina asked, looking at her with a puzzled expression.

"Can I make a request regarding the performance?" Arinya inquired.

Elaina's smile grew wider, and she gestured for the two to walk ahead. She wrapped her arm around Arinya's shoulder as they headed to their next class. They were already attracting attention from other students, who were whispering about the W7SHES girls reuniting as a band.

"This is absurd," Arinya muttered, her frustration evident in her voice.

"Oh, come on, Ari," Cho retorted, turning towards her friend and rolling her eyes. "Don't be such a party pooper! I thought you'd been to muggle parties before. Let me help you with your outfit."

Arinya sighed reluctantly, moving closer to Cho. She didn't particularly want to attend this party, but she couldn't bear to disappoint Cho, especially when she knew Luna would be there. Luna always seemed to gravitate toward celestial beings late at night, and Professor McGonagall had entrusted her and Hagrid with their care.

Cho examined Arinya, her gaze scanning up and down her friend with a look of amazement. She couldn't help but admire how pretty Arinya looked. She had always been attractive, but since her return, Cho had noticed a change in her demeanor. Arinya now exuded class and elegance.

Even dressed entirely in black - a black leather jacket, a black mini dress, and black knee-high fiber boots - Arinya still managed to maintain an air of elegance.

Arinya looked at herself and started to panic. "Why are you staring at me like that? Do I look strange? That's the last thing I-"

"No, no," Cho quickly interrupted, trying to reassure her. "Of course not! I was just admiring your outfit."

Arinya raised an eyebrow, and both girls fell into an awkward silence.

"Not in that way, I'm straight," Cho clarified, earning a small chuckle from Arinya. "I just meant that you've grown, both physically and emotionally. It's not a bad thing at all. You've undergone a positive transformation."

Cho rambled on, causing Arinya to nod in agreement, but she also reminded Cho that they needed to hurry since Luna was likely waiting for them.

The two friends quickly left their rooms and made their way down the hallway. They hadn't even reached the stairs when they were forced to squeeze against the walls to make way for couples who were already rushing up, giggling as they went.

"IF ANYONE OF YOU WENT INTO CHO CHANG'S ROOM AND ARINYA ASTOR'S ROOM, I WILL COME AND FIND YOU AND CUT OFF YOUR DICKS AND VA–

"Okay, okay! Calm down! Our room has enchantments on it!" Arinya had to pull Cho, who was in the midst of cursing. But when Arinya mentioned that their door was protected by a spell, Cho suddenly became flustered yet remained vigilant.

"Yeah, but it could be broken too! And can you imagine our bed smelling like sex, and imagine seeing those white—"

"Okay, too much information there," Arinya interjected, covering Cho's mouth. They had forgotten they were in the middle of a party until some fellow students greeted them casually with a 'hi.' That's when reality hit Arinya, and she began to feel self-conscious, with nervousness slowly creeping in.

Things got even worse as guys particularly started eyeing her as they walked past, with some even having the audacity to cat-call her and give her a wink. Arinya had to pull Cho's arm back.

"Cho, I don't think I can stay here."

"Huh? What do you—"

Cho's words were abruptly cut off as she turned towards Arinya and saw a very familiar group approaching them. Though the dim blue lighting made it a bit challenging to see clearly, Arinya could see Cho's cheeks flush with red.

"You know what, I'll see you later! Bye!" Cho suddenly ran off, disappearing into the crowd without even hearing Arinya's response. Arinya was left standing there, stunned, with her best friend having abandoned her in the middle of the crowded hall.

What the hell was that!?

"Astor!"

Turning toward the voice and the person calling her, Arinya felt her tense body relax as she saw Lorenzo and his group of friends approaching. A small smile lit up her face, and her feet instinctively directed her towards them.

"Hi!" Elaina was the first to step in front of her, giving Arinya a hug, followed by Annmarie and Pansy.

"It's rare to see you out," Elliot commented with a slight grin. "Heard from others that you usually skip parties."

Arinya scoffed slightly, tilting her head while folding her arms and looking up at the taller boy. "Not exactly skipping; I sneak out halfway, Adalard."

"Damn, those parties must be boring for you, then?" Blaise commented, and Arinya shrugged. She was now feeling self-conscious, her arms covering her sides, especially after noticing Draco's intense gaze, even though he hadn't said a word.

"You look good, though."

Arinya's eyes shifted to him, seeing the white-blonde-haired boy with the corners of his lips curled up. She gave Draco a quick once-over; he was wearing a buttoned-up shirt with the top button unfastened and sleeves rolled up, paired with his everyday black pants.

"Same goes for you too," Arinya smirked slightly before turning her attention to his other friends. "So—"

"There you guys are!" And then, Laura-Jean and Annalise appeared on either side of Arinya, with the Gryffindor girl's arm hugging Arinya's side. In a matter of seconds, Laura-Jean managed to grab hold of Elaina, Annmarie, Arinya, and Pansy as well.

"Sorry, boys," Laura-Jean grinned at the Slytherin boys. "We're having a girls' party in a corner, so... see you guys later!"

"Sorry!" Annalise added as she hurried the girls to move forward. Arinya couldn't say a word as Laura-Jean held onto her hand, dragging her into a group of people who were dancing. She looked back, attempting to catch a glimpse of Draco amidst the crowd of people blocking her way. Unfortunately, she was being pulled deeper into the swarm of dancing bodies.

Draco couldn't even utter a word; his eyes were fixed on Arinya, brimming with love and desire. When he saw her descending the stairs – more like maneuvering through the crowd of infatuated couples – his eyes widened, and he could feel himself becoming flushed the moment he caught sight of her outfit.

It exuded class and style, and he knew that other guys would be ogling at her, which he was proven right about. From a distance, he could see boys winking at her and checking her out. Draco noticed how she had her arms wrapped around herself, and even from afar, he could discern the graceful sway of her body.

Honestly, Draco had come to the party primarily to see his girl and maybe have some fun with his friends from the W7SHES girls. However, he was also aware that there would be guys eyeing the girls, so he made it his mission to protect Arinya. He knew, though, that Arinya was more than capable of looking out for herself.

Draco observed the girls enjoying their time, his gaze fixed solely on Arinya, despite the girls from different houses occasionally casting hungry glances in his and his friends' direction.

Then, to his surprise, Arinya was dragged onto the stage by Laura-Jean and Cho Chang to sing. With a microphone in hand, the Ravenclaw girl began to sing a song that initially seemed unfamiliar to everyone but soon had the entire room vibing to its rhythm. Eventually, all the W7SHES girls joined her on stage.

Draco overheard whispers from others who he assumed were fans of the girls, mentioning that it was an unreleased song. Draco had to admit that it was catchy, as his foot tapped to the beat while he sat on the couch with Theodore Nott, who had been smoking since the beginning. But Draco knows better that the boy was eyeing towards Elaina rather openly.

"That's my– I mean our girls!" Lorenzo exclaimed without embarrassment, dancing enthusiastically with Elliott, who was amused by his comical dance moves.

Blaise and Pansy were at the front, joining the other other students in vibing to the girls' performance and having a great time.

After three songs, the W7SHES girls finished their performance and left the stage. Annalise held onto Arinya's hand as they made their way to where the Slytherin clique was seated, but they were intercepted by the girls at the front.

"Fuck off Avery."

"You have no chance with her."

Avery? Arinya's eyebrows shot up as she recognized the voices. She managed to weave her way through the crowd of high school kids until she had a clear view of Elaina, Annmarie, and Laura-Jean's backs. But her eyes widened when she spotted Danilo Avery, along with his two followers, Aaron Burke and Lawrence Rosier, all of them looking ready for a confrontation. Avery's glares at Elaina were particularly intense.

The expression on Avery's face caught Arinya's attention, and she slid in between Elaina and the group, acting as a shield.

"Well, well, look who it is—the star herself," Danilo taunted. Arinya sighed, her annoyance evident on her face. She briefly averted her gaze before fixing it on Danilo.

"What on earth have we done to you, Avery?" Arinya frowned, her arms crossed. It finally dawned on her that Danilo's hostile gaze was directed at the W7SHES girls, specifically Arinya.

"Nothing," Danilo shrugged, wearing a wide smirk. "I was just trying to get you to like me."

Scoffs could be heard from behind her, undoubtedly from the girls. Arinya ignored them, raised an eyebrow, and then shook her head. He was just wasting her time.

"Forget it. Excuse us," Arinya said, turning toward the girls. However, before she could take another step, she felt a rough grip on her arm, causing her to face forward.

"What's so great about Draco, huh?" Danilo's voice lowered, his eyes darkening as his grip on her wrist tightened. Meanwhile, the other girls had already started dispersing to seek help. Arinya struggled to break free from his iron grip.

"That useless jerk is also a Death Eater, Arinya. Wake up! You're in love with a family of Death Eaters. What difference does it make to me and hi—"

In a matter of seconds, everything changed. Arinya was yanked into someone's arms, and it turned out to be Lorenzo. He pushed Danilo to the floor, his familiar white-blond hair contrasting with Danilo's shocked expression. The other students quickly gathered around to witness the unfolding scene with horror.

Blaise and Theodore had to physically restrain Draco; he had unleashed powerful blows that left Danilo writhing in pain. Seconds later, Theodore managed to grasp hold of Draco, needing both arms to keep him in check. Draco seemed like a man possessed, poised to launch himself at Danilo, who was now being assisted by his two friends.

Arinya's eyes widened when she saw Danilo's condition. His nose and mouth were smeared with blood. She couldn't help but notice Draco's red and likely bruised hands. What had provoked Draco to such anger?

"Let me warn you, Caddel," Danilo managed to say, his voice cutting through the now hushed common room. His dark eyes remained fixed on Arinya before shifting toward the other W7SHES girls who stood by her side.

Then, his gaze returned to Arinya. "You will face death for the second time, and this time, there will be no way for you to return as you did before."

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4 walls (masterlist)

[platinum-official]

11: FREE

A.N/WARNINGS ― slight angst

SUMMARY ―  Draco felt free the moment Astoria said she will break the marriage.

The atmosphere in the stadium was electric as the Ravenclaw Quidditch team took to the skies. Cheers filled the air, with most of the support coming from Slytherin, particularly for player number 5, Arinya Astor, the new chaser who had captured everyone's attention.

From the moment Arinya's name was announced, the anticipation for her performance had been palpable. Among the spectators, Draco Malfoy, usually the epitome of composure, couldn't hide his anxiety and concern for the girl.

His eyes were fixed on player number 5, and he couldn't help but feel worried, despite her impressive skills in avoiding Hufflepuff's chasers, which he had witnessed during her previous practices.

In fact, Draco had made a point of attending Ravenclaw's Quidditch practices secretly. He recalled a particular instance when he had to hastily leave an Alchemy class, earning concerned looks from his fellow students who assumed the usually stoic Slytherin prince was upset. In reality, he was rushing to see Arinya, his secret love.

The game seemed to unfold in the blink of an eye. One moment, the crowd was cheering for Cho Chang, who had caught the snitch, and the next, gasps of shock filled the stadium. Elaina and Annmarie were already calling for help, with some of the Ravenclaw girls screaming in horror.

Arinya Astor had plummeted from her broom, falling at an incredible speed. Without a moment's hesitation, Draco summoned his broomstick and, with Blaise Zabini and Lorenzo Berkshire close behind, leaped from the stands to help. He stunned her, allowing Blaise and Lorenzo to fly ahead and catch her in their arms. Draco then led the way to the ground, carrying her gently.

The Ravenclaw team members were in a state of extreme worry. None of them had ever witnessed such a harrowing incident. Cho Chang, their Quidditch captain, confronted the Hufflepuff Quidditch captain, accusing them of foul play.

"I saw everything! One of your beaters hit her with that bat on her back deliberately! I saw you aiming for her from the very start! That's foul play! You're worse than the Slytherin team!" Cho's words echoed through the stadium, drawing wide-eyed attention from the crowd and a sly smirk from Draco. Professor Hooch had to intervene and separate the two captains.

Professor Hooch carefully examined Arinya's condition before turning her attention to Draco, her gaze steady. "Malfoy, take her to the hospital wing."

"Is she going to be okay?"

"She will be, E," 

"I'm going to beat up that imbecile! He literally used that damn bat–"

"Draco, calm down–"

"How am I supposed to calm down, Pansy!? He used a freaking bat! What if she died!? What if her body goes limp!? What if–"

Arinya let out a groan, and the aggressive voices fell silent. Her vision gradually cleared, revealing familiar faces peering down at her. Arinya's eyes widened when she saw Lorenzo come uncomfortably close, prompting her to push his face away. "Hey!" Lorenzo protested, which elicited chuckles from the boys.

"W-what happened... Ow..." Arinya attempted to sit up but winced in pain, clutching her back. Draco rushed to her side to assist her.

"Thanks," she muttered, noticing Draco's faint grin and recalling their previous interaction where he had confessed his love for her.

"You do know that I love you, right?"

"Yes, I do know, Draco."

"Good. I just wanted to remind you, in case you'd forgotten."

"You fell from above because..." Elaina began, her gaze shifting to Theodore. "Because one of Hufflepuff's beaters hit you from behind."

"With his bat," Blaise added.

"–And you fell from the sky," Lorenzo continued.

"That's when our Slytherin prince, along with his loyal servants Blaise and Lorenzo, came to your rescue," Elliot chimed in.

"They flew off the bench!" Pansy added with a playful smile, winking at Blaise. "Which is quite impressive."

The group's conversation grew increasingly animated, with some amused and others perplexed by Pansy's comment. Arinya simply watched with an awkward and sheepish expression.

As the commotion continued, two sisters on their way to the infirmary paused upon seeing the crowd gathered around a particular bed.

Astoria Greengrass eventually caught sight of Draco Malfoy amidst the group. She noticed the genuine happiness in his eyes as he laughed and shared stories with his friends, especially Lorenzo Berkshire. Astoria realized that Draco had always loved Arinya Astor. He had confessed this to her, leaving Astoria heartbroken and in tears.

Even though Draco had avoided her, hurled icy words, and cast disdainful glances her way, Astoria had fallen for him.

"I'm such a fool," Astoria murmured to herself, tears streaming down her cheeks, which her sister Daphne overheard.

Daphne turned to her younger sister, seeing her distress. She had warned Astoria about Draco's enduring feelings for the Ravenclaw princess, but Astoria had not listened.

"One last attempt," Astoria said, looking at Daphne with determination.

"Astoria–"

Before Daphne could complete her sentence, Astoria walked away, determined to confront her feelings and the truth.

A week has passed and December hits them; which means the weather is twice as cold as previously. The boys were wearing thick sweaters while the girls had scarves wrapped around their necks.

Draco, on the other hand, just had his usual all black turtleneck outfit with no scarf at all, with a green apple on his hand. Girls who walked past him were literally giggling while shooting him smiles and winks. He secretly loves it although he just shot them a slight glare.

"Wow, Mr Popular." Theodore snickered beside him.

"Shut it, Nott. They were eyeing you too– well not just you and me, the other guys too." Draco hissed and he was right. Most of the girls from different houses all had different preferences when it comes to the well-known Slytherin boys.

"So," Lorenzo started. "Has anyone invited their dates to the Yule Ball?"

"I did." Elliot turned towards them. "I already asked Annamarie and of course, she said yes." He smirked towards his group of friends which Lorenzo and Theodore high-fived him.

"How about you guys?"

"Of course I asked Laura-Jean! A yes for me." Lorenzo somehow winked towards Draco– which the white-blonde haired threatened to throw the half bitten apple towards him.

"How about you Blaise?"

The glossy dark-skinned boy grinned. "I'm planning to ask Parkinson tonight, my way."

"You mean the shagging way?" Lorenzo raised a brow with a smirk and Blaise shrugs– though he was smiling slightly, earning a gagging reaction from the others except for Lorenzo since he was high-fiving Blaise.

"How about you, Theo? Have you asked my sister?" Elliot asked him this time, and Theodore sighed, shoulders slumped slightly.

"Well, I'm finding ways to tell her, in my way and no not the shagging way." Theodore shot a glare towards Lorenzo, the boy had his hands up in defence. Elliot could only chuckle upon their reactions, until his eyes laid towards the quiet white-blonde haired boy at the back.

"Hey, how about you?" Elliot nudged onto the boy as he walked beside him.

"And what about me, Adalard?"

"Your date for the Yule Ball...?"

Draco looks at him, a small frown plastered on his face before it turns into a slight smirk. Arinya. "Of course I have one in mind. It would be–

"Draco." Everyone didn't even see her approaching them– maybe because they were busy talking about the girls they wanted to ask, they did not even see Astoria Greengrass walking towards them.

"Oh, hey." Draco bopped his chin; a way of acknowledging her. Draco was trying not to look disappointed– kind of wanting to see his girl, but he knew Arinya was probably with her girl group.

"Draco," Astoria said with a smile, her posture straightening with newfound confidence. "Would you like to go to the Yule Ball with me?"

As Draco's eyes met Astoria's, his expression immediately soured. He hadn't even considered her as a potential date when Professor McGonagall had announced the Yule Ball. Instead, his attention had been fixed on his group of friends, who were all casting subtle glances toward their preferred partners.

Draco recalled how Elliot had been discreetly eyeing Annmarie, who was engrossed in conversation with Elaina, oblivious to his gaze. Even Elaina herself was the subject of Theodore's obvious admiration, though she remained oblivious to his attention, much to Draco's chagrin.

Lorenzo, on the other hand, couldn't hide his infatuation with the Gryffindor girls, particularly Laura-Jean, who had winked at him, causing Lorenzo to blush, a sight that Draco found rather amusing. Being shy, my foot, he thought to himself.

Draco kept his focus forward, pretending to be discreet, but he knew he'd been caught when Theodore's gaze locked onto him. Arinya was busy chatting with her friends, Chang and Lovegood, but her eyes eventually landed on Draco. In a feeble attempt to hide his embarrassment, Draco flashed his customary smirk, making Arinya blush in response. He chuckled softly, relieved that he'd managed to save face.

Draco had already decided to ask Arinya to be his date for the Yule Ball. He saw this event as a chance to turn over a new leaf, to be a better person, and he wanted Arinya by his side for that transformation. "No," Draco replied plainly to Astoria, his tone apologetic. 

"I'm sorry, Astoria. I've already asked someone to go with me." In truth, he hadn't asked anyone yet, but he didn't want to hurt Astoria's feelings with a blunt refusal.

A heavy silence hung in the air for what felt like an eternity, lasting a full 15 seconds before Astoria was the one to finally break it. She let out a soft, somewhat nervous chuckle, and her eyes involuntarily shifted to Theodore, who sat across from Draco. Theodore's expression, however, was one of curiosity mixed with bewilderment.

"I knew it," Astoria muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. "I shouldn't have asked. It's Astor, isn't it?"

Draco's response was not immediate. Instead, he allowed the silence to stretch a moment longer, his eyes cast downward. The answer was painfully clear to Astoria. A soft, bitter scoff escaped her lips.

"What did she have that I don't, Draco?"

Astoria didn't seem to care about the judgmental gazes from Draco's friends, particularly Theodore, whose disapproving look had been present from the beginning.

"Was it the money?" Astoria continued, her voice tinged with frustration. "I know Arinya's from a wealthy pureblood family on both sides. I can work for it. Was it her intelligence? I can study harder. Was it her looks? I can—"

Draco couldn't hold back any longer. He let out a loud scoff, his patience exhausted. Astoria's comparisons between herself and Arinya sounded absurd to him. Rising from his seat, Draco turned to face Astoria, his expression marred by a slight frown.

"It's not about any of that," Draco said, his voice softening. "I'm sorry, Astoria. She's different, and I can't explain why it's Astor. All I know is that I love her for who she is, not her physical appearance or her intelligence." It was a half-truth. While Draco cherished Arinya's heart, her eyes, her smiles, and the way she blushed or spoke to him, there was more to his feelings than he was letting on. Draco sighed, looking like he had given up on his argument with Astoria. It was time to reveal the truth.

Draco had always been in love with Arinya, even when she had been absent from the wizarding world. He had regularly visited her grave, which had thankfully been spared from the recent destruction following the girls' visit to the Ministry. Arinya remained unaware of this, but Draco made sure to leave white and red roses on her grave each time he visited. He never missed a single occasion.

He has always loved Arinya, and Draco is aware that Astoria knows about his enduring affection for Arinya. Thus, he doesn't understand why she's still with him.

"Alright," Astoria sighed. "Then answer me honestly." She paused briefly. "Would you have married Arinya if it weren't for our arranged–"

"Yes," Draco interrupted her.

Astoria's eyes widened as she observed the change in his eyes and his subtle nod. 

He truly loved her. Her lips quivered slightly, but she suppressed her emotions, swallowing the lump in her throat as her gaze momentarily averted from Draco's before returning to his icy grey eyes.

"Alright," Astoria mumbled, nodding. "I'll end it."

This sudden declaration caught the attention of everyone present. Elliot's head snapped towards both of them, while Blaise and Lorenzo's eyes widened.

"I should have listened to Daphne," Astoria's voice became quieter, as if speaking to herself. Draco listened carefully. "I knew you still loved Arinya. I noticed how you looked at her, how your face lit up when she was around."

Tears welled up in Astoria's eyes now. "I thought you admired her appearance, that you had a thing for curly-haired girls. I foolishly tried to mimic Astors' style, hoping you would notice me." She chuckled, tears streaming down her cheeks. "But no. Even after a few weeks, you wouldn't spare me a glance."

Draco looked surprised. A few weeks?

"But now I understand why you love Arinya," Astoria said with a sad smile. "I saw the way she looks at you, with so much love and trust." She sighed, shaking her head as she took a step closer to Draco. Astoria removed the ring from her left hand and placed it in Draco's hand.

"I'll write to our parents to cancel the marriage. You don't have to worry about your father – I'll find a way to handle it." Astoria spoke with a trembling smile. Draco's shoulders seemed to relax in relief.

"Thank you, Astoria," Draco said softly. "I'm sorry, and thank you."

Astoria could only nod towards him, simultaneously casting a warm smile of acknowledgment in the direction of his group of friends. To her delight, they responded with genuine smiles instead of the usual sympathetic ones. With newfound confidence, Astoria gracefully departed from his presence.

Draco, his face adorned with a smile, gazed at the ring in his hand. Slowly, he withdrew his wand, prepared to rid himself of the burden it represented. After months of turmoil, he was finally free.

"You do realize that Lucius is bound to--"

"By this point," Draco interrupted Lorenzo with a wry grin, "I couldn't care less about his opinions, Berkshire." His thoughts were consumed by Narcissa, and he was already planning to compose a letter for her. Draco felt resolute.

He was prepared to confront whatever harsh words Lucius might unleash in that very letter.

Unbeknownst to Draco, his friends had noticed something different about him; for once, a genuine smile adorned his face as he passed fellow students on his way to the Great Hall.

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