apparently, they’re a sucker for classical literature
mainly revolving around romantic classics
at first he makes fun of it— doesn’t really get it. why read a complete book about two protagonists too stupid enough to acknowledge their problems or each other—
but he’s interested in the reader
so he reads a book or two,, no biggie
maybe even a few
complains to (more than likely zambini) the atrocious plots such as romeo and juliet
yet, he still finishes it off (he’s not a quitter)
memorizes scripts/plays/lines
plan to impress the reader is in pursuit
————————————
haven’t figured out an ending since i’m mapping it out here............... but it seems fun to write lol
Pairing; Draco x Reader,, Pansy x Draco (friends),, Pansy x Reader (friends),, Pansy x Theodore
Genre; Fluff? Overall, yeah...
Word Count; 3.5k+ (with extra)
Request; @andreasworlsboring101
Warnings; unedited
“Draco! Draco, dearie, can you come here, please?” Draco’s mother, Narcissa called from the main room of their Manor. Draco bolted down the stairs, throwing his toys onto the bed as he skipped down the stairs, his hair swept messily to one side as he straightened himself in front of his mother.
“Yes, mommy?” Draco asked, brightly grinning up at his mother as he watched her near him, smiling as she fixed his hair.
“Your hair, Draco. It’s a mess. You’re lucky you’re father isn’t paying attention,” she lightly scolded, though Draco knew that she didn’t mean it-- it just meant that he had to be more proper and presentable at times when his father was around.
“Draco, my boy. We wanted to give you something, or at least show you at least,” his mother whispered, kneeling down and gasping her son’s shoulders softly, grinning at him. “We think you’re old enough to be responsible, aren’t you, my boy?”
“Of course I am, mum. I’m a big boy,” Draco announced, puffing out his chest eliciting a heartfelt laugh from her. She nodded, her lips tugged high into a smile.
“Draco.” His father’s voice boomed, startling both Draco and his mother for a second before they greeted him happily.
“Your mother and I thought it was time to present you with this,” Lucius handed his son an ebony wooden box, intricate designs hand-carved throughout the box, all leading to the lock. His father then handed him what seemed to be the key, and suddenly, Draco began to feel his hands tremble as he turned it counter-clockwise until he heard a faint ‘click.’
Gulping, his hands came to the top of the box, and pushed it back, until the hinges fully supported it. His eyes immediately scanned the inside, until his eyes landed on a ring.
Draco picked it up gently, terrified that he’d drop it. The ring was too, delicately sophisticated. The band was twisted and cool, the texture and pattern reminding Draco of a snake; he soon noticed the snake’s head, curved over the prong, until his eyes finally landed on the head of the ring. There, was the Malfoy’s family crest, surrounded with a backdrop of black with pristine and steady strokes of emerald. He was captivated, swirling the ring in his hand.
“It’s our family heirloom,” his mother had told him, “The ring will attach itself and hold on to your soulmate, the one you’re destined to be with.” His eyes grew in disbelief as he stared at his mother, his eyes sparkling.
“Is it true? Soulmates? Do they really exist?”
“Of course, my boy. It’s a very special ring, so you must promise that you won’t lose it.” Lucius’ voice reasoned, staring down at his son softly. “One day you’ll find them… a soulmate or whoever you wish to propose to,” his father explained further.
“But it’s not something to play around with, and randomly put on people’s fingers, it must be taken care of. It’s our family’s, after all.” Draco nodded as he put the ring on his ring finger, feeling the ring begin to tighter around his finger, the snake staring at him cheekily before resting back on the prong.
A sudden knock startled Draco before his mother ushered him out of the room happily.
“Hurry! That must be the (L/N)’s!” His mother announced, Draco smiling as he could hear giggles from the other side of the door. Opening it widely, he waved excitedly at you, waiting patiently for your parents to greet each other and come inside. As soon as they did, he tugged his mother’s dress, pleadingly looking into her eyes.
“Mother, can I play with (Y/N) before we eat? Just for a little bit?” He begged hurridly as he bounced a bit, knowing that his mother would probably agree, whereas his father would’ve refused based on his behavior. She sighed, before slowly nodding.
“Okay, but just for a little bit, all right? Supper will begin any minute now,” she rushed, making Draco grin. He pulled you along with him, running up the stairs before his father could realize where they were going. Closing the door to his room, he turned back at you, pointing at his hand.
“You won’t believe what I just got!” He whisper-screamed to you, watching as your eyes light up as you grabbed his hand to get a better look at it.
“A ring?”
“Not just any ring, (Y/N). It’s supposed to lead me to my soulmate… if they put the ring on and it doesn’t come off, they’re destined to be with me.” Automatically, you grabbed the ring and stared at it, before Draco pushed your hand away, shocked.
“What’re you doing!?”
“I wanna tryyyyyyy, pleaseeeeeeee.” You nagged, “I wanna be your soulmate, Draco.” Draco shook his head, moving his head behind his back as he stepped away from you.
“No, not yet, I’m too young.” He retorted childishly, his cheeks filled with air as he looked away from you, his face turning pink. You gasped, before grabbing his hands with yours.
“Then promise me then!”
“Promise you what?” He asked almost immediately, afraid of what you’d say.
“Promise we that in ten years from now, I’ll get to try it on! To see if I’m your soulmate or not!”
“And if we’re not?” He asked concerned, raising his eyebrow at you as you bit your bottom lip, in deep thought, until another idea sparked. “Then if neither of us finds our soulmate by a certain point, we’ll marry each other.”
“Are you insane? I can’t just marry my best friend!”
“Of course you can, people do it all the time. Most people were best friends before they were a couple, Draco. Or at least, that’s what my parents always say,” you finished with a shrug of your shoulders.
“If you don’t want to, though, it’s fine.” Draco watched as you failed to keep yourself happy, your expression slowly turning saddened and bleak. His heart tugged a bit as he growled under his breath, intertwining his tiny fingers with yours.
“Fine! Ten years from now, we’ll be… sixteen? Seventeen? We’ll do it then,” Draco shouted, stunned that your expression had altered so quickly, hugging him tightly before pushing him away.
“Pinky-promise?”
“Yeah, sure. Pinky-promise.” He groaned, lacing his pinky with yours before the calls from both your parents were heard from bellow.
“We should probably get going,” he stated, making you nod. As you both hustled down the stairs, you quickly whispered.
“Remember, you can’t break a pinky-promise, or I’ll be mad.”
Draco and you had been friends from as long as he could remember, probably since birth, honestly. The two of you were constantly clinging onto one another, whether it was for comfort or to simply annoy the other… you both were inseparable as the years dragged on.
—————
“Draco Lucius Malfoy! It’s time!” You scolded at him, attempting to tackle him to the ground in order to steal the piece of jewelry on his finger. He dodged at the last possible second, however, grinning from ear-to-ear as he watched you trip.
“Better luck, next time, love.” He teased, sticking his tongue out and playfully sending a wink your way. You immediately flushed bright red, blowing away a strand of your hair before charging towards him once again.
“Draco Malfoy! You made a promise that I get to try on the ring! Let me, already!” You scolded, your finger jabbing into his chest as you tried to reach for his hand, but he seemed to be much quicker as he waved it in all directions. He then took the initiative to remove the ring from his fingers, placing it in the palm of his hand and tauntingly waving it in your face, before extending his hand as high as he could.
“I don’t see why you’re so obsessed with this ring, (Y/N). Or the promise, you should be focused on something else,” he tried to persuade, knowing that you weren’t listening to a word he said. “Besides, it hasn’t officially been ten years, since then… you still have another month or so.”
“Oh shut up, will you? Just give me it!” You interjected, jumping to try and grab his hand. He twirled around you and smirked, ruffling his hair as he steadied the ring back on his finger.
“Unfortunately, class begins soon… guess you’ll have to try later--” his sentence was cut off short as he began to run, you trailing behind him in a frenzy towards your class; his laughs echoed the hallways as students made sure to clear a path, avoiding eye-contact with him and you (pretty much because you threatened to hex anyone who got in the way as you were running).
----------
Normally, you wouldn’t have even batted an eyelash towards his heirloom, or bring it up in a conversation. But as the day got closer, it kind of started to bring a sense of uneasiness to you… the promise. The scenarios playing in your mind as you slept, or daydreamed through some of your classes.
But it made you think. For once, it was odd. To imagine your future as a sixteen-soon-to-be-seventeen-year-old, nonetheless with your best friend. He must’ve thought it wasn’t big, but it definitely was to you. You weren’t an idiot at the age of seven, you knew what you were getting into when you made that promise. Hell, you even wrote it in a little journal you had afterward, it wasn’t hard to deny it. You fancied Draco.
For years, so the thought of being his soulmate made you feel excited and absolutely terrified. Pansy had often reassured that all would work out, and things would pan out the way it should… but it still bothered you. As much as you tried not to, it was the only thought that remained.
Maybe I should just forget about it, he’s probably someone in mind anyway, you thought as you slumped in your chair, it wouldn’t have been the first.
“Hey! (Y/N), are you even paying attention?” Pansy nudged your shoulder, asking through her teeth, her eyes widening as she forced you to look down into your textbook before the professor noticed you were spacing out.
“Still obsessing over Draco?” She whispered, resulting in a bitter laugh to emit from you. Pansy had had an overwhelming obsession with Draco for the first few years until one day, it seemed the message of him not reciprocating her feelings had become clear, and then she changed.
Much better, if you were being honest. She had her own personal glow-up and was focused much more on devoting time reflecting and helping you.
“Maybe you should pretend to lose interest? That might make him give it up,” she suggested, “Or just steal it from him? You know, unexpected--”
“How am I supposed to steal it? It’s on his finger, Pansy,” you jeered, continuing to write utter nonsense in your notebook as you stared at it with intent, hearing her sigh loudly. “I don’t know, but you have to do something, maybe even tell him… ever given that a thought?” She questioned, staring at you concerningly as you shifted under her gaze uncomfortably, trying to stir your attention away from anything but the topic at hand.
“I don’t know…” you dragged on, making eye-contact with Draco from across the classroom, seeing him happily sending you a smile; you tried your best to return the favor, however, it seemed a bit forced, causing Draco’s to waver.
Oh, bloody hell…
“Well, now he knows something’s up,” Pansy piqued, giving you a knowing gaze as she gave a quick glance at him, before grabbing your hand to prevent you from writing any longer. “You have to do something, I’m not saying you should steal the ring or stalk him, but do what your heart tells you to do, when the time comes.” You smiled softly as you grabbed her hand, uttering a sincere ‘thank you’ before returning to your work.
Pansy gazed back up at Draco, seeing his concerned gaze towards you before mouthing to Pansy a series of phrases, and answering them swiftly before you had the chance to notice.
-------------
Draco had no idea what was going on with you. One minute, you were giddy and incredibly engaged in your own world, the next you were shouting at him about his promise and the ring, and then you give him a pathetic attempt of smiling at him… and suddenly he had no clue what was going on with you.
He’d been talking to Pansy lately about the issue, but she’d either reassure that everything would be fine or give the curt response: “Go ask for yourself”
Normally, Draco would’ve given a snarky response back, but she’d always managed to run away before he could press on more about you.
“What happened to (Y/N), Pansy?” He asked through gritted teeth, “You make this so much harder than it has to be.” Pansy raised a brow at him, amused, twirling the strands of her hair with her finger.
“Someone’s not happy…” she taunted before shrugging her shoulders. “Unfortunately, I can’t tell you.”
“Why not? Aren’t you her best friend?”
“Aren’t you?” Pansy countered quickly, watching Draco’s mouth hung open, before closing silently. “You two have known each other longer than I have; if you think something’s wrong ask (Y/N) yourself.”
“I can’t if (Y/N) won’t talk to me,” he pressed on, staring at his friend’s eyes as he grabbed her wrists. “Please, I need to know--”
“Draco, do you fancy (Y/N)?” Pansy inquired, removing his hands off of her, settling them back on her lap as she stared at him knowingly. Draco frantically shook his head at her, ruffling his hair in the process.
“Where did that question even come from, Pansy? Have you gone mad--”
“No. But it seems you will, soon. Why won’t you let (Y/N) try on the ring? A Malfoy sticks by their word, don’t they?”
Draco’s mouth became instantly dry, struggling to form any coherent sentence as his ears began to grow bright. Pansy’s eyes glimmered in realization.
“You’re afraid (Y/N) isn’t the one, aren’t you?” Draco remained silent as she titled her head to meet his gaze, to which his gaze moved away again. “Or are you afraid (Y/N) is the one?”
“You’re deranged, Parkinson.”
“Perhaps I am, but the one thing I’m not Draco… is a coward.” She grunted, resulting in Draco staring up at her, shocked. Pansy was a female that often spoke her mind and criticized others, but not him. She certainly changed.
“You’ve been friends for ages, Draco. And even when I was too “preoccupied” with you I still knew it; (Y/N) won’t be around forever, and if you don’t act soon someone will sweep them off their feet because that’s what they deserve. And you’ll never know the truth,” Pansy flicked his forehead, making Draco whine at the impact. “You’re incredibly dense, sometimes. I wonder what I saw in you…” Draco’s eyes trailed down to the floor, before a sudden laugh shook, startling him.
“But I know (Y/N) sees it… saw it longer than I had, maybe… besides, I got myself… someone. So go get yours.” Draco’s eyes stared up at his long friend, staring at her both thankful and apologetic.
“Oh stop with the sappy look, will you? I’m not telling you to confess and I’m not asking for pity. But when the time comes… do it.”
————
A few weeks had passed since then, and your nerves had remained calmer than ever. It seemed Pansy was right, and being able to dial down on your turmoil was as simple as clearing your mind… from all of the thoughts of his heirloom.
Of course, you took that route. Instead of confessing to him… and Pansy had egged you to pursue him while respecting your decision. It just seemed easier, you noted, to distract yourself for a while.
“Why are you spacing off, again? Someone caught your eye?” Draco quipped, staring down at you. You rolled your eyes as you readjusted yourself on his lap, giving him an irritated look.
“Does it matter? Even if I was, it’s none of your business,” you ended while sticking out your tongue, noticing Draco’s eyes had slightly clouded at your remark.
“I should probably leave soon, Umbridge will be scouting soon…” Draco murmured, as you let out a frustrated growl.
“Oh yes! The sadist, who only lives to ruin student’s lives… I find it concerning that she’s so fascinated in kids…” you whispered the last part, Draco letting out a hearty laugh. “Pipe it down, I heard she has eyes and ears everywhere,” he added on, the both of you snickering.
“Watch out, she might hide under your bed too, I wouldn’t put it past her.” Draco grabbed your hand and squeezed it as he let out another laugh, the cool metal of his ring sending a shiver down your spine. As it died down, he released your hand, before his eyes traveled down to his hand, and his ring. He removed his other hand cradling your head and removed the hoop slowly.
“Here, a deal’s a deal.” You let out a huff, knitting your eyebrows as he dropped the ring into your hands.
“Why so suddenly… well, I guess I’ll try it. After all, you’ll probably be getting it back.” The statement broke your heart, but in reality, it seemed fit to say. And Draco cracked a smile, so he must’ve been hoping it to happen too.
Sliding the ring on your finger, another shiver sent down your spine, your eyes lost in the details of the loop. Your breath hitched suddenly as you paused your movements, watching for something to happen. A sign.
Looking up, you saw Draco staring just as intensely as you had at your hand, the curves of his mouth downward and grim.
“See? I told you,” you sighed, reaching for the ring again and attempting to tug at it.
Attempting.
However, as you tried, you realized you couldn’t take it off.
“Uh… Draco? Can… Can you give me a hand?” You pleaded nervously, his eyes widening as he adjusted his position, panicked.
“Yeah, of course.” He responded, gently grabbing your hand in his, his fingers hanging over the ring, deep in thought, before he dropped it, staring at you.
“(Y/N)... it won’t come off,” he said quietly, a small smile dancing on his features.
“How would you know? You didn’t even try,” you tried to defend, grabbing the ring again and tugging it. This time, the ring had gotten looser, only for the snake to hiss at you, its jade eyes leering. You removed your hand almost instantly, letting the creature hum in content before slithering itself around you again, this time, a bit tighter than before.
“This has to be a dream, it can’t be real… can it?” You gaped, thinking that you were daydreaming again. Hallucinating maybe?
“I don’t think it’s a dream,” Draco started, his thumb playing with the ring on your finger, a bright smile plastered on his face as he stared (almost) lovingly at it. “But if it is…” he intertwined his fingers with yours, staring into your eyes with a lovestruck gaze.
“I don’t ever want to wake up.” He paused, before leaning down to capture your lips with his.
“I think it’s better than any dream, actually.”
Extra:
Months later, your head was resting on Draco’s shoulder, as he seemed to be engaged in a conversation with the boy across from him; Theodore Nott, Pansy’s boyfriend, who looked to be a decently charming Slytherin, though he was extremely opinionated with whatever they were conversing about.
“Sorry for asking, but I’ve been a bit curious about the ring on (Y/N)’s finger?” Theodore suddenly inquired, making you lift your head up to see Draco had been playing with the ring on your finger the whole time, twirling it rhythmically.
“Oh, isn’t it obvious? We’re engaged.” He smirked deviously, a gasp coming from you as you pushed him away, laughing. “Yeah right--”
“Aren’t we?”
“You didn’t even propose!”
“Don’t you have a ring? I can’t give you another one, this one isn’t coming off--”
“You didn’t ask and we’re still in school! Plus it’d be nice if you at least made the effort to ask--”
“Do you want me to ask? I can do it, plan it out if you want…It’s not like my parents would disapprove… my mother’s absolutely smitten for you.”
“That sounds nasty.”
“You know what I meant by that.”
“Even cuter, Theo, they’re soulmates…” Pansy whispered to him, as both of you bickered with one another. Theodore nodded in understanding, leaning down to Pansy’s ear. “I assume you helped… I don’t think Draco wouldn’t have done it anytime soon otherwise.”
“I can hear you,” Draco announced, pink dusting his cheeks as he sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck, “And I would’ve eventually… though I’m glad Pansy helped…”
“Of course I had to,” Pansy smiled proudly, “And look how it turned out. I’m great at what I do.”
“Rivals Don’t Look At Rivals That Way” [draco x reader]
Pairing; Draco x Reader
Genre; ANGST with some fluff?
Prompt/Inspiration: (Song) “THAT WAY” by Tate McRae
Word Count: 2,650+
A/n: Hey, hope everyone’s doing okay so far? I also hope everyone stays safe and does well!!! I’m currently back for the time being, so we’ll see what happens. I might make a part 2 but I’m not really sure? Anyway, thank you so much and I hope you enjoy it!!!
Please note that I did skip a chunk of the song, other than that hope you like it!!
You didn’t know when it initially began, but something was brewing between you and Malfoy, you could feel it, and it wasn’t the excessive squabbling and resentment the both of you had since first-year.
Being in your fifth year now, you managed to hold a title for yourself, of being a refined, young individual; a wizard with a bright future amongst themselves. The impression of you given to the younger years had made you smirk from time-to-time, being someone to never double-cross. It came in handy often.
That, and your long-lasting quarrel with acclaimed Slytherin Prince, Draco Malfoy. Everyone knew about your needless banters, leading to a decent amount of detention in Professor Snape’s classroom. Honestly, you were quite surprised you had such an incredible influence given the number of times being punished for your careless actions in class with the Slytherin classmate.
Weirdly, the two of you couldn’t exactly pinpoint when things began to form into something else… something new.
It was something that wouldn’t lead to anything good…
You tried to convince yourself for days, weeks…
You didn’t know what it was, maybe something that happened in the heat of the moment… but you distinctly remember being up at the astronomy tower and gazing at the stars, while the rest of your house was getting into serious trouble with the others.
But out of nowhere, you saw Draco sitting next to you, nonchalantly. Not one sarcastic comment or insult, just the two of you admiring the starry night sky. Carefully exchanging short little glances at one another, not saying a word, but noticing the reflection of the luminescent specks on the two of you.
Then, it happened.
You both happened to look into each other’s eyes, and the world seemed to stop. Neither of you had turned away, just continuing to heavily stare into the other’s alluring irises, and began to lean closer to one another. Slowly, centimeter by centimeter, the two of you continued the action until you were merely an inch away from each other’s lips, noses brushing the others.
The barely noticeable spots across Draco’s face made your face tint, the tiniest imperfections were magnified being so close to him-- but to you, they weren’t blemishes, it made him normal. And sometimes normal was exceptional; time seemed to stand still for who knows how long, but it was something you weren’t sure whether to push.
It was like a sudden spark was about to be lit, a flame awaiting to kindle.
And then just like that, it diminished.
A sudden creak of the door broke Draco out of the trance and move backward, pale and wide-eyed as he stared at your figure. He bit his lip and opened his move in an attempt to say something, but closed it shut moments after. His captivating eyes had a subtle glare, making a feeling growing inside of you that perhaps, it was more than a rivalry. But just as you were going to question him, he ran.
Let’s say you were both heartbroken and confused that night.
Since then, it was hard to stand seeing him at all. Walking through the corridor, teasing the other houses with his colleagues, working in class, and especially when he was chatting with Pansy; watching as she clung to him. Through all your years of seeing them, you would’ve thought that Draco felt suffocated or trapped with the action, but now, it looked like he lived for it. Openly accepted her gestures of affection, ones he used to immediately refuse…
He even returned her actions sometimes, casually wrapping his arm over her shoulders, or greeting her politely in the evening as they walked to the dining hall.
You came to the conclusion that you liked him, a lot. Maybe even loved him. You didn’t know what was the difference between the two, but you didn’t think having a simple crush would’ve affected you this badly. To notice his little quirks that made you grin-- the way he ruffled his hair when he was frustrated-- when he had a hard time in class he’d sometimes puff out one side of his cheek or bite his lip-- or the way his eyes glint with strong emotions constantly.
His insults didn’t always happen anymore, instead, it was more of a war of silent expression (facial/body posture). When they did come, you still returned with a curt, wise response… but it wasn’t the same. ‘Cause it seemed that the little things he began to insult you with started to affect you.
Not vastly, but the occasional twist and tug of your heart did hurt.
Next thing you knew, another incident happened. You would feel his stares from across the classroom. Now, most people would say he was just sending a glare and not paying attention, given he might snap at them next.
But you knew differently.
Not all stares were vicious, menacing glares. In fact, a lot of them seemed to just be of him staring at you, lost in thought. Hopeful. Doubtful. Guilty.
They all ranged and altered so quickly that it was impossible to identify the logic in his mind. After some time of you staring back, he seemed to always recover seconds later, flushed and staring back at the professor. Or muttering something under his breath before sneakily harassing another student.
You would’ve confronted him for it, had it not been that fleeting thought of what it could’ve meant. And confronting him in the matter might’ve shattered both the thought and you (again).
It was announced suddenly. Draco and Pansy had gotten into a nasty fight with one another, leading up to Pansy striking Draco across the face and screaming utter nonsense for the next few days. To be fair, you didn’t know she had the will to actually hit him, but surprise surprise.
Weirdly, Pansy didn’t seem eager to proclaim to the world why they broke up suddenly, letting students just create their own impractical outline of their relationship. The biggest being swarmed around was him cheating or having another sidekick, though Draco dismissed them.
Hope entangled your mind. The possibility was now an option, it could be a reality. Constantly fighting with your anxiety, a never-ending struggle with your mentality. In the end, anxiety won. It seemed to always win these days.
Draco may no longer with someone now, but that didn’t mean he’d go for you, now did it?
Didn’t mean you had a chance… didn’t mean he would suddenly take interest in you either.
You’d brokenly laugh at yourself afterward, thinking about how hypocritical it was to be picturing yourself when him and then being disgusted with other students for doing it as well.
You stared at him longingly, causing your house to interrogate your sudden fascination with someone (they didn’t exactly know, but had a clue). One thing led up to another, rumors among you and Draco began to stir like no tomorrow.
You became the talk-of-the-town even more, as well as Draco. Students would randomly question you about your relationship status as you passed by them-- asked if you fancied Draco or were going out with him-- hell, even the professors questioned your day and life. It was much too hectic for you, especially in a time of complete and utter stress.
It was too much. The attention didn’t make you happier, because, in the end, you know, the person who they talked about wouldn’t care, or be with you.
But you still denied all allegations, wondering what dreadful response Draco would’ve made towards you in comparison. Probably a crude, rude response that would’ve left any person cry right then and there. So for the time being, you managed to deflect people’s questions and Draco’s responses to them.
Soon it seemed things returned back to normal in a month’s time. The rumors died down and Draco’s bantering increased per usual, the two of you were at it all over again as if your agony never occurred in the first place. Displaying a mask upon your face seemed to be a normal occurrence nowadays.
Students soon neglected the idea that Draco could possibly be infatuated with you, considering how much the two of you bickered in all of your shared classes. To the world, it seemed that everyone and everything had returned back to normal…
Though on the inside, you were slowly crumbling away. It seemed really stupid to you, an over-exaggeration of feelings infusing together-- and you just didn’t know how to calm your paranoid nerves.
You had a little randevú with Dean Thomas, and to be completely honest-- it made you felt absolutely wrong. Dean Thomas was an extremely good-looking student, with an awestruck personality (believe it or not), but it just didn’t feel right. And you were almost positive he felt the same, considering while talking to you, he’d occasionally bring up another girl he’s been crushing on for ages.
So one thing led to another, you two ended up like best friends, secretly discussing and plotting scenarios of how to get the other one (though most of the time, you were helping Dean). In a way, Dean became a noteworthy therapist, expressing your hindrance was beneficial.
But someone else thought a lot differently about the two of you.
Things seemed to become weird again. Honestly, at this point in time, you were wondering if this cycle was going to become a normal routine. This time, Draco stopped with mocking and just stared; a mixture between ogling and a glower… you couldn’t stand it anymore.
As your last class finished you darted across the room and jerked Draco out of his seat, hauling him around to who knows where; anger seemed to only raise more as the students around began to stir trouble, whether teasing or whispering to themselves. With a deadpan stare, most students’ voices died down only instantly.
“(Y/N), where the hell are you taking me?”
You couldn’t answer, because you didn’t know. Scanning through your options, you realized most options wouldn’t be best, considering the amount of blabbing students were roaming. Frustration only seemed to grow before the conclusion came to mind that the library would suit best.
It wasn’t specifically a place of solitude, but it wouldn’t be swarmed with different houses, just a series of Ravenclaws you were too engrossed in novels to realize what was happening-- or a Hufflepuff studying. To be fair, you’d much rather let a Hufflepuff overhear anything among the two of you than another chatterbox (especially Slytherin and Gryffindor.)
Giving a final yank, you gazed at the Slytherin Prince stumble forward and back to his feet, before scowling.
“Bloody hell, (Y/N). If you wanted my attention you could’ve just asked. Didn’t need to make a scene,” he fumed, staring at his surroundings. You would’ve made a remark about him for the look he gave being in a library but held back. That wasn’t important, what’s about to happen definitely is.
“Shut up, Malfoy. You deserved it anyway, after all of the nonsense I’ve had to go because of you.” You retorted, shocked that the words just slithered from your mouth. Bad habits seem to die hard. Draco didn’t seem happy at all with your statement.
“Because of me? Me? Darling, you don’t even know the amount of trouble you’ve given me…” he spat back, “And then you throw this little stunt that’s sure to bring me more trouble than ever--”
“What are we?” You blurted out accidentally, the question that’s been racking your mind finally spilling out of the blue. Draco seemed to freeze at your question, stunning him from forming any coherent sentences to come through.
“I mean it, Draco… what are we at this point?” Staring at the ground, you flinched when Draco gained consciousness of the situation, erupting in laughter.
“What are you talking about? Have you lost your mind, (Y/N)? Must’ve hit your head, ‘cause there is nothing between us. We’re nothing more than rivals--”
“Rivals that caught each other’s stares from across the classroom? From across the foyer? The garden?” You queried, examing for a definitive emotion stirring up within him.
“Right, before we throw insults at each other--”
“Do rivals stare into each other’s eyes?”
“Of course, it’s called a glare--”
“Do rivals almost kiss?” Draco’s breath hitched at the question, turning away and running his fingers across the spines of the books. His bangs seemed to cover his eyes as he looked down at your figure, a sinister smirk on his face.
“It wasn’t a kiss.” He said brazenly, crossing his arms over his chest, leaning against the bookcase for support. You huffed annoyedly, “Oh yeah? Look me in the eyes and tell me that you don’t think anything of me. That that night, wasn’t going to lead to a kiss, and we really are just rivals…”
“I don’t think anything of you, we weren’t going to kiss and we are just rivals--”
“Look me in the eye and say it Draco!” You demanded viciously, taking a step closer to him. “Look me in the eye, and tell me truly if I mean nothing to you.”
“Why are you so keen so knowing what I think of you? Shouldn’t you be asking Thomas this? Perhaps asking him these types of questions?” You did a double-take at that statement, blinking a few times.
“This has nothing to do with Dean, Draco. We aren’t together. I just want you to tell me the truth--”
“The truth is we’re rivals! Maybe even considered friends! Always have been! What led you to become so determined to discover what you mean to me--”
“Because rivals (friends) don’t look at rivals (friends) the way we do!” You barked at him, water threatening to spill from the corner of your eyes as you rammed a hand to his chest.
“Rivals don’t look at rivals that way… rivals aren’t supposed to feel jealous when the others dating someone else…” you droned on, ignoring the look of astonishment Draco had. “I don’t think we’re rivals, because if we were, then I’ve read everything wrong. And so are my feelings…”
So you looked back up to him teary-eyed, clutching his robes and pulling him closer to you.
“Tell me the truth, I want to know whether or not there was a possibility we have something… tell me if you feel absolutely nothing so I can stop-- there’s no point of me continuing on if nothing’s going to happen so tell me, Draco. Do rivals look at rivals that way?”
A/n: I wrote this because I love “lost-words,” and I love the moon. So, I wrote both together, so I hope you enjoy. I was wondering if anyone wanted my last fic, “The Peculiar Girl,” to be a series? Or should I create one? Thank you and I hope you stay safe!!!!
It was therapeutic.
An escape you relished in; complete solitude with no one but the stars above. To welcome your presence, silently. As billions of lights flickered down upon the world, the moon in all its glory, radiating such a fair glow to the world below.
The cool breeze that passed, enough to send a quick shiver down one’s spine if they lingered.
Even in the worst of days, you could look up into the darkness, and felt warmth. Despite the colder weather, the night had just been more relatable.
The sun was appreciated for everything, the world’s orbit, the growth of plants, the smiles it can emit, the laughter that soon follows. But the moon was briefly taken into account, for the imperfections of its craters, and it’s “bleak” color.
Oh, but if they had only looked closer.
For the moon was more beautiful than the sun and with it, contrasted the darkness. Even with its imperfections, it gleams with beauty and all its various phases. Not only that, but it stands alongside its friends, all the stars in the cosmos. Truly, the moon deserved so much more.
Any distress seemed to vanish as you strolled through the garden, knowing very well you could be caught. Honestly, you were shocked that you hadn’t been caught years beforehand, but you knew that someone was watching. Whether it was a professor, a student, or even the Dumbledore himself, but you could feel it.
Now, as a fifth-year, you were shocked when a letter had been gifted to you in regards to being chosen as a prefect. Its responsibilities being listed within the context and procedures taken for certain matters.
Truth be told, you weren’t exactly doing your job as a prefect, most of the time. What could you say, the moon entranced you, it was alluring.
And tonight, it was a full moon.
With its large, blue ring encircling it. The existence of the color around it was a question that had been plaguing your mind for as long as you could remember.
As you finished your quick check-around, you winded up back to the courtyard, where you sat and admired the sky with your undivided attention.
Today hadn’t been completely hectic, in your opinion. Fifth-year was a vital year for all Hogwarts students, and most were completely swamped and engulfed in stress, exams seemed to be all that mattered.
That, and gossip. Which never seemed to end, when it came to the students in Hogwarts. And lately, everything had revolved around by once again, Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy.
A Chosen One and a Prevailing Prince.
It seemed to fit, segregating once again, between who was “good” and who was “bad.” It seemed that Slytherin had developed poor character over time, whether it may be from one in the house or its prejudice. In this case, you couldn’t choose a side, unlike most.
You hadn’t really known either of them remarkably well. Only what rumors had suggested and all you could hear from an earful away.
From all that you heard, it seemed both were much similar then people have realized. In a way, they are both misunderstood and falsely conveyed themselves within society, for whatever reasons. To be frank, the only two reasons they must hate each other is because of their house, and the way they both rubbed off each other. Clearly wrong.
Closing your eyes, you slowly inhaled, enjoying the cold, refreshing air. A bit of mist had begun to form, bringing a small smile on your lips.
“I assume you’ve finished your rounds?” A voice interrupted your thoughts, the ends of your mouth only lifting. “You are correct, how pleasant for you to finally join me. I was wondering when you were going to come out.”
You didn’t need to look behind to sense a sudden emotion of embarrassment and horrified.
“B-believe me, I most certainly… was not staring at you.” The voice defended, stumbling over his words. The statement made a soft giggle pass through your lips, as you bent over to delicately trace the veins of a fallen leaf, before turning around to see him.
Draco Malfoy.
“Oh, Mr. Malfoy. How delightful for you to join me, have you finished your rounds for the night?” You inquired, a small smile formed as you saw the pink in his ears.
“I-I’ve done most, I was going to do a few more before I saw you,” Draco replied, coughing. “May I ask, what’re you doing here?”
“I’m always here, if you must know.” You started, fumbling with the leaf in your hand, “I’m simply intrigued with the night.”
“What’s so grand about the night?” The question came out a bit harsher than Draco expected, but nonetheless, curious.
“Many things,” you spoke out in a whisper, tilting your head up. “Take a look for yourself.” And in that moment, he did.
And the words within Draco, left him. All his questions.
As he gazed at the inky canopy of darkness, dabbed with an infinite amount of glistening stars, swirls of slight colors somehow appearing on the midnight canvas.
You took the time to stare at his expression, his sudden absorption in the sky, it was at that moment you felt like you knew him. He seemed just as fascinated with the sky as you did. And for a minute, you wondered how quaint he was, perhaps just as much as you?
Did he also seek freedom?
Isolation.
A moment, where time froze, and all seemed all right.
“You seem to be enjoying this,” you mocked, finally getting the boy to tear his gaze away from the atmosphere and towards you. “What do you think?”
“What do you I think?” He repeated.
“Yes, silly. Of above? What do you think?”
Draco’s eyes twinkled as the course of light had changed, and shifted to a single, yet powerful beam of light towards you. Your figure glowed, and for the first second time that night, he felt hypnotized.
“It… it’s captivating,” he mustered out, taking another look. “It’s compelling somehow as if it’s--”
“--Drawing you near.”
“--Drawing you near.”
You grinned again, watching Draco’s face light up as he laughed.
“You come out here, every night?” He asked as he slowly approached you. Nodding, you turned your attention fully to him, and a sudden feeling of delightment enveloping you. “Every day, since I could remember. Now that I’m a prefect, it only aids my infatuation… funny enough, you seem to be infatuated just as I.”
Another smile dawned Draco’s face as he gazed into your eyes, soon noticing that those too, hold pools of universes he was eager to explore. It seemed to be almost nostalgic, the sudden meeting between the two of you.
“Perhaps I am, and I have you to thank.” As he extended his hand out, he grinned.
“I don’t think we’ve ever formally introduced ourselves throughout our entire conversation. I’m Draco Malfoy.” A rich laugh came from yours, your hand clasping his in a gentle, delicate handshake.
“Honor to meet you, Malfoy. I’m (Y/N) (L/N).”
“Please, call me Draco.”
“And why should I?”
“Because we’re well-acquainted now, aren’t we? Both charmed with the sky?”
“Very well, a pleasure to meet you Draco. I hope we have more of these moments in the future.”
“Me too, (Y/N).”
Within a single night, both of you had become not only bewitched by the sky… but each other.
A/n: Another inspired fic from the moon, but this time it’s just a massive amount of sugary fluff so i hope you enjoy!! i’m officially done with school!! hope everyone’s doing okay and stay safe!!
Your eyes wandered all around the view as you stared out into the glorious horizon of the night, from the fourth-floor balcony. Truthfully, you would’ve much preferred the view from the Astronomy Tower, however, tonight it seemed someone had barricaded the front entrance and the stairway, dwindling your mood until the idea sparked into your mind.
The fourth-floor balcony was famous for the group of Hogwarts couples that hang out daily, basking in the sunlight whenever they could… the thought alone made you gag, but you couldn’t deny that the view was spectacular.
The sky tonight seemed to be presented on a black canvas, swirls of purple and blue painted masterfully in precise, intricate strokes. The moon had even decided to come to the show, bright and full with its craters on display. The trees swayed gently as a breeze swept by, a shiver blissfully running down your spine, as you edged closer, your feet dangling off.
You peered over your legs and stared at the statues, along with the bushes neatly trimmed and placed, if you weren’t guaranteed to die you would’ve loved the feeling of jumping off. To know the rush before landing, but of course, it wouldn’t have been safely, so the thought was instantly diminished.
The world seemed to get lovelier, the higher you gazed from. Some day, you wanted to know what it would feel like to stand from the top of a mountain, the top of a massive building, staring at the world below. You’d probably never do it, for fear managed to stop you a few times when the thought came by. Still, it was an adventure that seemed to be fully engaging and promised much more.
You wished you could see it all. The world, everywhere.
“Bloody hell, don’t tell me you’re going to jump, are you? Or you know, fall!?” Someone screamed suddenly, startling you as you whipped your head towards their direction. Another gust came by as you stared at the figure in front of you, a smile on your face.
“Of course I wouldn’t jump, Draco. I always joked I wanted to go out with a bang, but not like that.” You reasoned, giving him the weirdest look as a laughed coursed through your body. “What’s a guy like you doing out so late? Don’t tell me you were going to bring some girl here, were you? Because unfortunately for you, I’m not going to leave.” You finished, making it Draco’s turn to let out a breathy laugh.
“Don’t worry, I came alone. I just wanted to enjoy the view, that’s all. I wouldn’t be here, but the Astronomy Towers--”
“Yeah, I know. I would’ve been there too.”
You’ve run into Draco a couple of times during your years together, there wasn’t any heavy tension between the two of you, though. It just seemed to be pleasantly carefree, whenever the two of you miraculously bumped into each other, it was just calming.
There was never a dull moment when the two of you spent time together. Laughter, jokes, a few stumbling encounters even, in the beginning, it was abnormal how easy it was to open up to one another; or how just being with the other helped, silently watching the stars.
It’d only happen a couple of times, but every time it happened it just lulled the both of you.
“Why don’t you sit?” You offered, patting to the spot next to you, grinning. Draco’s eyes widened as his face flushed pink, hands in front of him as he waved them frantically.
“I can’t possibly, I might… you know… fall,” Draco muttered, making you giggle uncontrollably as you remembered the times Draco had tripped over air as he greeted you.
“Stop it! It’s not funny! And don’t laugh, or else you’ll fall!”
“Oh how cute, Draco cares about me.” You noted, pointing at him as you winked. Seeing him about you retort, you quickly removed your gaze from him and glanced back at the sky, swaying your feet even more.
“It’s sweet, Draco. It shows you care,” Your smile grew wider, knowing that he was probably just gawking at you. “And I appreciate that you care, Draco. Because I do too.” You turned back to him, “Sorry if that sounds like a confession.”
Truth be told, you did like Draco. Deep-down you knew. That was the reason why it was so much easier to open up to him, to trust someone, and notice their qualities. Both good and bad. Yes, it hurt a bit. To know that he probably liked someone else, was interested in someone else, and that was fine, really. Right now, at this point in time, your feelings of wanting something more could be put aside, because more than anything you just needed him to be there.
“It… It’s fine,” Draco stuttered again, ruffling his hair as his eyes slowly wandered to you.
He watched as you smiled gently at him, your eyes dazzling, the reflection of all the galaxies in the universe twinkling breathtakingly. Your hair swaying along with the wind, face upward towards the sky once more.
Honestly, you took his breath away.
Everything you did seemed to be majestic. And it was so odd, to think about. Considering the fact that all of your conversations were in the dead of night, under the stars about the most randomest of topics. Most would think of his crush as absurd, but it was just there. He couldn’t take his mind off of you, he stumbled over his words constantly when he was near, and his feet.
His eyes were constantly locked onto your figure during class, observant when it came to the little quirks you had, surveying you in the Great Hall as well.
He’d only tear his eyes away when Blaise of Pansy had questioned him, wondering what exactly had gotten him to be so spaced out. To cause his attention to be so diverted onto one thing, consistently.
“I wouldn’t have minded if it was a confession, though…” he muttered to himself, causing your head to quickly spin.
“Sorry, what did you say?” you pressed quickly, seeing Draco’s face flush even brighter than before, scrambling over his words for an answer.
“I didn’t mean it-- I mean, I don’t think you heard correctly-- maybe, it’s--”
“Okay, Draco. Don’t pass out on me, your face is red. I was just wondering if you said something, is all.” You informed him softly, watching as his face slowly became less panicked, and his face toned-down a color or two. He brought himself closer to you, his feet scraping against the ground as if he was the heaviest object in the world at the moment.
He held onto the pillar tightly as he swiftly flew on leg over the rock railing, sharply inhaling as he did so. He planted his other foot firmly on the ground before his hands came up to support him by clenching the rails, staring at you.
“I’m not as insane as you to let myself completely hang off the verge, but enough to do partly while safe.”
“If you’re afraid of heights or dying you could always lean against the pillar beside me, you know,” you told him scooching closer to help him. “You didn’t have to sit down with me.”
“Oh shut up, would you? I did it, all right? Doesn’t that matter?” Draco defended himself, no longer holding on to the railing but fiercely staring into your eyes, his breath hitching as his mind registered how close you were to him.
“Of course it does, Draco. Thank you and as a token of my gratitude--”
Draco cut you off as he dove forward, his lips crashing onto yours, innocent and gentle. His head started spinning, his stomach doing flips as you melted. He firmly grabbed her and the rail, terrified that he’d fall off any second from feeling this light and weak. As they parted, his eyes glowed as he nervously laughed.
“Sorry, I--”
You pulled him back in, smiling as he immediately responded, this time taking the courage to firmly kiss you, cheekily nibbling your bottom lip in the process. Pulling away, you gave him the biggest, brightest smile he’s ever seen.
“Will you go out with me? I know it’s a bit late to ask but--” he laughed before you quickly pecked his forehead, stopping his ramble.
“Yes, Draco. I’d love to, now let’s get off the rail before we fall off.” He reacted in no time, already off and offering you a hand to help yourself. When he knew you were all right, his hands wrapped around you, slowly making their way down to rest around your waist as he brought you closer, laughing a bit.
Leaning down, he kissed your lips again as he rocked gently, you following his lead, under the moonlight, on the fourth-floored balcony.
“Rivals Don’t Look At Rivals That Way” pt. 2 [draco x reader]
Pairing; Draco x Reader
Genre; ANGST, with uh, some fluff
Prompt: Part 1 Inspired by “THAT WAY” by Tate McRae
Word Count; 4k+
A/n: Hey everyone, I just wanted to say I’m sorry for posting this WEEKS later, after the first one. To be honest, things are getting a little hectic and the workload for school is only increasing (it’s insane really, at least to be). Anyway thank you for all the love and support you gave to me, especially for the first part!! It may seem a bit rushed so I apologize, and it is a lot of ANGST, so yeah...thank you guys and love you!!
Warning; idk major angst, and it’s a bit rushed so i apologize (there also may be a few grammar errors but i always miss them)
Part 1 || Masterlist
_________________________________
Previously:
“Rivals don’t look at rivals that way… rivals aren’t supposed to feel jealous when the others dating someone else…” you droned on, ignoring the look of astonishment Draco had. “I don’t think we’re rivals, because if we were, then I’ve read everything wrong. And so are my feelings…”
So you looked back up to him teary-eyed, clutching his robes and pulling him closer to you.
“Tell me the truth, I want to know whether or not there was a possibility we have something… tell me if you feel absolutely nothing so I can stop-- there’s no point of me continuing on if nothing’s going to happen so tell me, Draco. Do rivals look at rivals that that?”
_________________________________
Now:
He felt comatose, not from your hinted confession, but the reality he cloaked suddenly unveiling. Complexion faded, his lips quivered and his throat unbearably tight. It had only tightened more as he watched as your face begin to form tears, sniffles already beginning. He was always a malefactor, wasn’t he?
“I can’t,” Draco lamented, inspecting your deepened expression.
“The last thing I want is for you to be mocked by all these students…” a frog caught in this throat as the three next words passed his lips. “...from my father.” His eyes widened as he left a cool drop fall stream down his face and drip off his chin, landing on the ground. The sudden moment he couldn’t restrain his emotions… he didn’t even know he felt even an ounce of melancholy.
“So you admit that we’re more than rivals?” You whispered, stirring Draco from his unsettling behavior; a frown quickly cracked through, despite his oblivious state.
“I never said that, don’t put words into my mouth. Plus, you know better than anyone that we couldn’t possibly--”
“What’s stopping you?” You grilled, quickly overlooking his (weak) counter, stunning him for a moment. “Why is there always something stopping you Draco? Someone?”
The interrogation seemed to madden him. Out of the blue, a harsh growl erupted from his throat; harsher than he’d ever done before. Of course, he knew what stopped him, what always stopped him. Merely the thing that daunts him every day, makes him question himself and his actions…
“Nothing...” Draco snarled, laced in displeasure.“Nothing is stopping me.”
“There is something...” you pressed on. In this exact moment, you could’ve been deemed the antagonist, forced to alienate everyone around you.
You didn’t want to, but you knew that the exterior front he seems to maintain isn’t his true nature; you knew that deep within, everyone is a bit broken inside, and there was a nagging feeling in you that he was much more broken than anyone you’ve ever seen… maybe even more than you.
“I know there’s something Draco, whether or not you want to tell me about it.” You didn’t want to, but if making him angered was the only way to see his genuine emotions, you’d do it in a heartbeat.
Draco’s jaw clenched at your words, resisting the urge to snap. He should be open, he wanted to do nothing more than surrender. To you, to everyone, he trusted, to everyone who deserved it. He’s done already to you, partly. Accidentally, but was it worth it? It was, it always was, so... why can’t he go further? Why were so many things prohibiting him? And why were they all linked to the same thing?
“You don’t understand, you don’t see the world I do (Y/N). You’ve managed to see through people, and believe that every person should have a chance. I didn’t get to, you haven’t seen this school as I have… being a Malfoy. People change, and not for the better, sometimes... You can’t fight for me for too long, (Y/N), you’ll end up giving up too.”
His eyes glistened with fresh pools fell down, uneasy hands bringing themselves up to cradle your weeping face. A thumb, calloused, guardedly moved higher, pushing the water threatening to flood. He watched as the spark in your eyes dim, and he knew he’d done it again; he’d break another one. It was heart-wrecking.
“You mean more to me than anything, (Y/N). I mean it…” he started, stepping closer and bringing you to his chest; shielding him from seeing the agonizing expression, guilt beginning to already eat him alive.
“The last thing I’d ever want to see, is for you to be shattered… and for it to be all my fault,” he choked out, knowing very well you were already tattered… much less than what could happen later. His hand slowly went up to place itself on the back of your head, soothingly rubbing and playing with the strands. Not to calm you down, but for him.
With his words, time seems to stop, as well as your heart; no words formed.
How could he?
You’d known for some time rejection was an option, but it was before his feelings… before the pain knowing how close you were; seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, reaching for it, grasping what it seemed to be it, and falling through the seams.
Blame is all that seemed to loom him, clouded by what he convinced himself to be responsibility.
How do you persuade someone damaged like that? Reassure him that he didn’t have to worry about your well-being? About the world around him?
That simply having him near and embracing you, knowing how he truly felt was all you needed; his mere existence was enough, his worth didn’t need to be proven. That the feelings were both mutual, was all he needed. The world’s view shouldn’t matter, because it was the two of you… not them.
He didn’t need the world to love him, because you did. And even if you weren’t enough, he’d have others, family, friends… but did he really?
For once, in your entire life and being, you felt… defeated. Taunts and arguments were small failures, but resulted in your victory… for the first time, you didn’t know what to do… how to make a comeback.
“So there’s nothing? We’re destined to be stuck like this?” you sobbed, arms encircling his torso, pulling yourself into his chest deeper, a habit to muffle the cries escaping from you; a tactic you developed as a kid. Draco only pulled you closer, silent; chewing on his lip hard to the point he could begin to taste the metallic fluid oozing from it. “I don’t want it to end… anything at all is fine.”
He knew what you meant or what you were getting to… It was either going back to being the world’s little display of chaos or having a secret little love affair.
Now usually, he’d be head-over-heels at the idea, the moments of cuddling or secret rendevous in the garden or past curfew. Stolen times under the moonlight or just with the two of you, it sounded like bliss.
But there was a possibility that it could all end in an instant. The moment he’d become extremely attached, to the point where a mere sideglance from another male could send him unhinged. Or someone catching the two of you, unfolding the curtain for all to see; backlash was his first thought.
The thing was, he was untouched. Draco Malfoy was taken to such a high degree that most didn’t want anything to really do with him-- get on his bad side. The only people who’ve ever given him a run for his money was the Golden Trio, other than that, he was fine.
You were the complete opposite. Yes, you have held a stable title of being strong, a determined and bright-minded individual. But people would still gossip, attempt to enrage you, simply because they could. You would fight back, that was definite… but there’s only so much you could take. Only so much before you either become numb or do something near expelling-worth.
He didn’t have the courage. Call him a wimp all you want, but Draco Malfoy wasn’t going to hurt someone else ever again. He’s already done enough to himself.
Cut ties, to have you blame him and move on. Hate him, mock him, he’d heard it all before-- but with time, you’d be happier. It would hurt, more than anything, but he’d rather have it from you now than having it all, still brawling students will a weak caliber. God, he’d never forgive himself for that. His selfish acts weren’t going to be at the price of your glee.
“We can only be what they see us as of now,” he retaliated, hearing another choke from you; the heartstrings pulling excruciatingly tight. “For both of our sake, for your sake, especially.”
“Draco--”
“Please, do it for me. Stop trying to reason with me, because I’m doing what’s best for us, for everyone. For you.”
Anger.
For you… for you… why was it always “for you?”
Why was it that everyone’s decision revolved around what’s best “for you?”
No one ever asked, but it was always with the best intention “for you.” But who knew if they left before they could?
The saying made you sick to your stomach, but you couldn’t retaliate. Instead, with a shaky breath, you took everything left of you and removed his hands from you, already missing the warmth from him. You didn’t need a second opinion to know you were an absolute wreck; the feeling already weighed you.
You held onto his hands in yours, just blanking out, staring at it. The sheer touch of his hands made butterflies explode within you, the frog trapped within your throat refused to budge. The grooves of his hands were intricate, you could hold onto it for forever, intertwining it with yours. Instead, a few more tears plopped from your eyes and onto his hands. What a silly thought…
Holding his hand out to him (with yours in it), you pushed it towards him, staring at him. This was your last attempt. Draco’s eyes bore into the hand holding his, signaling you were complying while saying,
“If you truly feel that way… take these back too.”
Draco didn’t want to… it was too nice. It felt right, like home. A safe one. Maybe even an escape. But if it didn’t, and let his heart voucher for him, all that he’s said, all he’s done, would’ve been for nothing; the struggles.
So, he made his decision.
As his hand withdrew and landed to his side, you had sprung forward. Grabbing the collar of his robes, you pull him down and peck his forehead. Draco’s body turned crimson, his body hot; if it was possible, steam would’ve been blown out from his ears. Just as quickly as it happened, it was gone.
Putting on the best smile you could muster, which you knew wasn’t much, you pulled away with another few inches of distance; the wood creaking beneath your feet. You didn’t know why you did it, maybe for once, you wanted to be selfish… you wanted to take something, a memory before it all ended.
“I should go before someone comes to check out the books in this section.” You didn’t want to leave, his eyes were telling you to stay, but if you did your heart would’ve split into two. You made your lips smile wider, almost maniacally, as more tears cascaded down your face; everything you could see started to blur. Turning away, you scurried off, resisting the urge to turn back.
Something overcame Draco. He sunk onto his knees, against the bookcase, ignoring how loud it must’ve been. He leaned against the bookshelf, his lip quivering more than ever as all his emotions poured out; by himself, once again. His knees came to his chest as he flicked his wrist with a series of words. Books encompassed him, cloaking the withering Slytherin, finally expressing his emotions… with no one to hold.
_________________________
You stared off into space, elbow digging into your thigh, despite the thick robs above it; you rested your head on your chin as everything around you seemed to be in a blur. You were so wrapped up in your mind the stem of your apple was barely between your fingertips, dangling.
“You shouldn’t look so glum, people might get the wrong idea,” Dean teased, nudging your shoulder as he stole the apple from you, taking an enormous bite out of it. You gasped and punched his arm, screaming at his stupidity for eating your food, and finishing it off. Grinning the best he could, he threw the apple core to the side and folded his arms over his chest, making a sad face.
“Now what’s the problem?” He questioned, in a childlike manner, his bottom lip popping out to create an (almost) irresistible pout. The action made you roll your eyes, giving Dean his answer.
“Geez, it’s the same thing… well, if you want, we could do something to get revenge.” You gasped in exaggeration, eyes blown wide as a hand came to your chest. “Did a Gryffindor just suggest revenge? What’s the world coming to?”
“Oh, put a sock in it. You’re simply just rubbing off of me too much for my own good,” he mocked back, smirking. Shaking your head a bit, you stealthily grabbed the sketchbook from him and flipping through the pages. His eyes bulged.
“What are you doing?! Are you mad?”
“You know...” you trailed off, scanning through the context. “You really shouldn’t draw people without their permission. Especially if you’re drawing the same person.” You taunted, displaying the picture of Ginny. Dean’s face grew red, taking the initiative to take the book back and hide it under his robes. He groaned aloud, revealing it once more.
“First off, I don’t only draw her, I draw all my friends.” He muttered, flipping through the pages irked until he found it. “I drew you too,” he finished, displaying the specific drawing.
Honestly, you were surprised. Shockingly enough, Dean Thomas was in incredibly talented kid, believe it or not, especially in art-and-crafts. You never belittled his talent, unlike the other Hogwarts students, you just teased him from drawing his little crush for an unspeakable amount of days, months. But seeing you made you crack a smile, even with the thought of Draco’s denial.
It had already been two weeks. Fortunately for you, Dean was about the perfect person you needed, a supportive, caring friend. It was well reciprocated, it seemed Dean was completely in love Ginny; he didn’t even talk to her much. He had tried countless times, but there were a few moments filled with stumbling over his words, walking off embarrassed. You didn’t know if Ron had noticed Dean’s fascination with his sister, you just hoped he wouldn’t chop Dean’s head off.
“Why draw me? I mean, that sketchbook’s pretty much occupied with one person inside. You could dedicate the entire book to her.” Dean rolled his eyes, clutching the sketchbook against his chest tightly. “I draw everyone I hold dear, (Y/N). And if you didn’t know by now…” Dean’s voice began to come softer, leaning close. “... you’re apart of that list now.”
“You’re too goofy sometimes,” you laughed. Both of you smiled brightly as laughs were exchanged, gaining the attention of a few students, who began to babble. Dean stopped before you did, gazing at everyone.
“Hey, don’t listen to them. They have nothing on you,” you whispered, ruffling his hair. “Entitlement only gets you so far, you need brains to get anywhere, and a majority of this school doesn’t really have any.” You continued on, knowing that a few students must’ve heard.
“You’re going to get in trouble for saying things like that, y’ know.” He whispered. “It’s the truth, and maybe for once, the school would shut up and mind their own business.” You spoke a bit too soon because a bundle of boys came trudging their way over.
“I heard (Y/N) and Dean are really together, look they’re all touchy and--”
“Crabbe, Goyle. Do me a favor and put a cork in it.” Draco sneered, leaning against the pillar as he watched people from a distance.
Yes, most would find it creepy. But Draco was much more observant to the people around the two of you rather than just you. Keen to people’s words, the way they spoke hollow lies, yet it seemed it mattered more than the value of truth. Deception and myths blinded people, false hope. He stares too often, but it’s mostly the people around rather than the person. He did it with Potter, got him in trouble more times than he could ever count.
But Draco knew the truth, he did it to help him. It was the only time he could ever see you, without other’s wandering eyes. He just didn’t feel the overwhelming need to do anything or desire. Crabbe and Goyle still praised him, always as countless other Slytherins, but it didn’t help that he himself felt guilt. Felt like a complete blistering idiot for rejecting probably the best opportunity he could’ve had, but he made his word of it to never come in contact if there was a chance of it down spiraling… if things were to get out of proportion.
You made sure to give the biggest grimace to the leader of the boys, looming over you as he shifted his weight on his back leg.
“Heard you two were together,” he jeered, his misshapen finger pointing accusingly at Dean. “the muggle-born.” The attempt to belittle your friend made you scoff aloud, unlike Dean, who’d kept his head down to avoid the spur of conflict.
“Obviously you’ve heard wrong because we’re not together. That or you’re just plain stupid.” The male looked baffled before he stomped closer to you, a poor attempt of intimidation. “What did you just call me?”
“(Y/N), quit it.” Dean tried to reason, finally looking up from the ground.
“I think you heard me, or are your eardrums clogged? You know what, don’t answer that, we all know the answer to that,” you taunted. “The latter one, if you didn’t already know.” You saw red. That and the sudden silence of everyone nearby, practically gawking at the scene before them; it even caught Draco’s full attention, making a beeline straight for you.
The boy suddenly grabbed the collar of your robes, his other hand reaching down to reveal his wand, you let out a maniac laugh.
“Are you that embarrassed that you attack a woman? Especially one unarmed as you reach for your--”
“Oh shut up!” He screamed, his wand pressing against your chin, making an indent on your skin. “You just wait and see you--”
“I dare you to finish that sentence,” someone grunted; a wand pressed against the male’s head, who shivered. You didn’t need to look twice to know it was Draco, though you were more irritated that he came to help you now than relieved.
Doesn’t give you a glance and suddenly came to act like your knight in shining armor out of the blue?
“Go on,” Draco rasped, “get on with it. Finish what you were going to say before I came here.” You felt the pointed piece of wood disappear, a slight tremble in his hands as he placed his wand to the side.
“I can’t...” the student croaked. Draco’s furrowed his eyebrows and twisted his face, adding pressure. “And why can’t you? Don’t tell me you’ve suddenly chickened out, have you?” He remained silent before Draco finally released him with a quick click of his tongue. “Beat it, coward.”
As if on cue he scurried away, not once looking back. Draco gave you a steady look, scanning your face for any sign of injuries, mutely.
“If all you’re going to do is stare, I’m going to leave,” you said, patting down the wrinkles in your robes. Draco didn’t say anything as he grabbed your forearm, tugging you along to who-knows-where. Stopping in front of Goyle and Crabbe, he growled.
“By the time I get back, I demand to know everything about that tosser, clear?” The compliant nods cracked a small smile from Draco, before whispering something to the boys you weren’t able to catch. He turned back to you and gave you a hard stare, turning around and yanking you with him.
The walk overall was uncomfortable. You were petrified to try and break the heavy silence, knowing Draco was still full of steam. The doors to the library swung open as he made his way inside, his grip as vicious as a viper, tightening at the slightest struggle.
“Are you always trying to get yourself into trouble?” He snapped, pushing you towards a bookshelf, and trapping you with his arms. You hated this. Being stuck beside him, near him, when he hinted there was nothing he could do to change anything between you.
“I don’t want to talk to you, Draco. I have nothing to say to you, so let me leave.” You ordered, searching for a way to flee.
“I don’t care if you don’t have anything to say to me, because I know you’re lying and I have things to say, so you’re not going anywhere until we sort this out.” A pained laugh followed from his words finally decided to stare up at him and into his eyes.
“I think we’ve already sorted it out, you established that weeks ago, if you’ve forgotten,” you chided, ignoring your shaky breaths. “There is nothing to sort out, ‘cause we aren’t any--”
“Don’t finish that sentence.”
“And why not, huh? Afraid it’ll hurt your ego if I might?” You wanted to stop, you really did. You didn’t understand the words coming out from your mouth, but in that second everything within you just broke.
“We are nothing, you made it crystal clear, Draco. Don’t tell me you’re suddenly backing out on your word--”
You felt something on your lips. Something soft, wet.
He was kissing you. Draco Malfoy was kissing you. It wasn’t happy either, it was vulnerable. His hands intertwined with yours desperately, assertive and fragile. It wasn’t until then you realized he had been crying from your words, his actions.
When he pulled away his head hung low, ashamed.
“I’m sorry. If you still hate me you can hit me, do whatever you want. I just wanted to tell you I’m sorry, for everything.” His eyes pierced into yours, another tear forming on his tear-streaked face. “You deserve much better than me.”
Again, you were in a tight spot.
Could you accept him? This time?
You got what you wanted, he finally decided to open himself up to you, after months of trying, months of failures. But now… you didn’t know. He was so distracted by everyone around him, would it work? The two of you?
Weeks ago, you would’ve been all for it; ready to face the world if it meant he was by your side every time, both thick and thin.
But now you were thinking, actually taking the time to think it through… were you going mad? You loved him to death, without a doubt, but what would happen if his father did find out? It would be an emotional hell for him.
What if you weren’t enough for him, and he realized that?
“(Y/N), nononononono don’t you ever discredit yourself… ever.” He panicked, taking your face into his hands and raising your eyes to him. You didn’t even realize you voiced out your thoughts to him.
“You are everything, (Y/N). Nothing would change that, you did nothing wrong. I did it, okay? It’s my fault.” And there it was...
It’s my fault.
“Why are you so persistent in everything being blamed on you. Why do you intentionally make people blame you?”
“Because it’s easier to have everyone hate you then knowing your true intentions… your true feelings. It’s been easier, until now,” he explained, muttering the last part under his breath. “When you asked what was stopping me…” Draco trailed on. “...It’s been me. I know, it’s stupid but… I don’t want to be broken again, (Y/N). Not again. So I tried to push you away, evidently, that didn’t work.” He joked, stroking your hands.
“I’m not asking anything of you, (Y/N). I just wanted to say I’m sorry; I won’t ask for your hand, just know that you mean more to me than anything. Whether we’re rivals or more.”
He said gingerly, a little grin forming on his face.
You thought again.
Was it really okay for him? Was he really all right with everything? With the thought of you hating him and moving on? Being nothing more?
“Draco…” you whispered, you didn’t believe the words coming out from your mouth. “Will you go out with me?”
Draco was speechless for a while, before kissing the top of your forehead. “Only if you’ll have me.”
You’ll take a chance, if he was willing to, you’d take it any day.
_________________________
Tags:
(those who asked for a tag and then wanted a part 2)
@dreaming-legend
@swonpl
@blisfvll
@s-njj
@that-weird-kid-charlie
@paaaam97
@simple-live
@jiminie-slytherin
@jadewestwriter
@lumbs17
@un-limit-edd
@blue-and-yellow-jjk-pjm
@theres-a-dog-outside-omg
@fire-in-her-veinz
@zphyersworld
@babyde-er
I think that’s everyone, thank you for reading and I hope you all are healthy and safe !!!
Pairing; Ex! Draco x Reader, Harry Potter x Reader
Genre; Angst and fluff (a bit dramatic too, honestly)
Word Count; 3k+
Request; @braelynn-j Could you do an imagine loosely based off of lyric “I don’t want your body but I hate to think about you with someone else.” By the 1975. Like maybe the reader and Draco just broke up and to get him angsty she starts canoodling with Harry and Draco gets upset and confronts her or something. Idk. Do whatever you want. You’ll make it great no matter what you do 😌💕
Summary: Draco and you had left the relationship as a “couple” on a good note. But now that you’re confirmed to be with Harry after just two weeks, Draco doesn’t understand really why he feels “lonely.” This fic is geared towards Draco, and his self-like journey to what he truly desires...
A/N: First off, thank you so much for the request, love !! I’m sorry it took a bit of time, I wanted to try and create a way for it to be more original and express the emotions that are lacked rather than the person, as they split. However, I must tell you that Draco and the reader DO NOT get back together as a couple, because I didn’t really that would be best throughout the story. I took a bit of my own little spin on the lyrics, so I apologize if this wasn’t really what you expected.
His eyes dropped to the corner of the desk, noting each curve of wood and crack of the platform, including the interesting textures of the wall near it. Lately, Draco had been much more observant through his everyday life, whether it may be staring off into space or a casual conversation with a classmate.
Noticing the world around him, and people’s tendencies. As they lie or slither in a small insult. How they present themselves, or how they act when they are happy. The casual nose crunch, eye crinkles, the curve of one’s mouth as they express emotion.
It seemed Draco had lived in a completely different world. Much more keen to the world he had not been so consciously aware of. It made him set a much more barricaded version of himself, a much more attentive adaptation of himself.
Now, not all aspects of it were bad. But the more he noticed, the more lonely he realized he’d become.
Some would already say when a couple splits it gets quite lonely, perhaps even worse than it was before. The longing for them again, the regret of letting go-- of how it ended.
But for Draco, he didn’t quite know. It seemed that he wasn’t really knowledgeable when it came to feelings, especially ones that weren’t conveyed often. Draco’s relationship with you hadn’t even been an uproar of much, just the mutual understanding that things weren’t going well-- and that the pressure may have been overbearing at this point in time.
So regretting the way he let you go was out of the picture, because he felt proud that he hadn’t just snapped and screamed… but listened and gave a response when it was his time… like you taught him.
No. No, it had to be a different reason.
It had only been two weeks, and to be honest, he wasn’t in the best condition. He kept a distance from the world, a safe one. A noticeable barrier that everyone must endure, and if they managed to break it down-- they’d earned his trust.
He’d done it before.
And you passed. Without knowing, or doubtful of what was to come afterward, you did it-- knowing he needed someone.
So… maybe that’s what angered him, and made him feel lonely. And the rumors of you canoodling with Harry-- and moving on so quickly, made him feel more alone. Harry, he was an okay-type of lad. He wasn’t exactly the worst, but not the greatest…
He didn’t want to know the things you did with Harry. He didn’t care, honestly. It was the fact that since you left, it was just a presence missing, a feeling missing… perhaps reassurance? Hope?
A sense of belonging…
Draco didn’t want to get back together (or at least, that’s how he felt), he wasn’t heartbroken like the entire Hogwarts student body envisioned him-- in fact, it just gave him a new reality of how empty being a Malfoy was… how isolated he is, suffocating every corner he turned-- new faces to see, new people to meet and make an incredible impression on, more responsibility?
For the first time in a long while, Draco had finally felt the weight carrying him down, by everyone around him.
How easy it was for his family to convince him to be the new heir, molding him as if he was a piece of clay. It was only so many tries before the clay started to harden… and crack.
But when you came in, it was he was a fresh new canvas. A newly created, lively young boy, eager for both you and the world. It gave him a purpose, to know that someone had taken the time to appreciate him as a whole-- someone he knew that if he broke down, would piece him back together, and vice versa.
So, in a sense, he didn’t like the fact that Potter now had that chance. And he didn’t. And it angered him more at the mere thought that Potter might only think of you as a source of comfort for a short timespan. Who knows, maybe he did brew feelings in the last two weeks and did take it seriously?
He wasn’t a jealous ex, or at least, he doesn’t think he is. Because he knew you were happy with Harry, and that was fine. Draco wasn’t dying to have your body next to his, but much rather, your words.
He had lost one of the best, major influencers in his life… it may be a bit dramatic, but he certainly thought so. So yes, he was upset. He was very much upset, to see you move on so quickly, and be happy.
But in the end, there was nothing he could do. He was satisfied enough the things didn’t blow up in front of his face, so that was that… wasn’t it?
“Draco? Are you all right, mate?” Blaise Zabini questioned, nudging his shoulder against Draco’s, making his head spike up from the desk.
“Did you say something? Sorry, wasn’t listening…” he mumbled back, his eyes soon trailing to the corner where you were talking to Harry and his friends, laughing and smiling brightly.
“I was asking you how long has it been since you’ve last eaten… you look like a ghost buddy… you should probably go get rest or head to the hospital wing. Madam Pomfrey can get a good look at you--”
“I’m perfectly fine…” Draco groaned, leaning his head back down on the desk, ignoring the spinning of his head.
“Mate, do you ever know how stupid you look? You look like you’re on the verge of passing out… you can’t ever keep your head up can you?”
“I said I’m fine… belt up,” he dragged out the vowels, placing his forehead against the cold temperature of the wood, breathing in sharply.
“You don’t have to be so uptight about it,” Zabini huffed, “I was just asking you a question… it’s not my fault you’re all hung up over (Y/N)--”
Suddenly Draco grabbed the collar of his robes, pulling him from his seat, his eyes blazing. Draco ignored the sudden pause of everyone’s movements, their attention now directly on his as his grip tightened, tugging his “friend” closer.
“The reason I’m like this isn’t because of (Y/N), all right? Get it through that thick skull of yours that my life doesn’t revolve around a single person, and no one does for you either. So quit being a pompous ass and hold your tongue, before I chop it off,” Draco demanded, shoving him roughing into his seat. As he did so, his eyes darted towards the classroom, and his eyes immediately stared into yours.
His mind felt hazy, his vision clouded as it began to lighten and see duplicates of everything. All he could vaguely see was a hand jumped out towards him, with the sound of someone calling out: “Draco!”
….
Draco woke up with a nasty pain in his lower back, groaning as a headache had also taken force. His eyes screwed shut for a good while, the sunlight blinding him momentarily, the rays shooting him down. He laid back onto the bed, cussing under his breath as he knew where he was.
Hogwart’s bloody hospital wing…
In an attempt to spring from the bed and leave before being noticed, he felt a hand resting on his, and his mouth turned dry. There, dozed off beside him on the bed… was you.
But why?
You had Harry. Harry and a bunch of other friends that you could’ve seen, spent time with, instead of being next to him. Cuddling up next to your new boy as you shared a series of laughs with, telling jokes about your past… so why were you with him?
An ex, his ex, laying next to him, in such a godly uncomfortable position. Your back so badly hunched over, arm under your to provide a sliver of comfort to the awkward way your body was caving. Unknowingly, his hand flipped over, holding yours, his thumb rubbing small circles on yours-- a small gesture he had always done, for both you and him.
“I don’t think I miss being boyfriend and girlfriend with you,” he started, not knowing what had gotten over him. One of his spurs of the moment. “Perhaps I’m saying this because I found out you were with Potter… and to be honest, I was not the happiest man in the world when I found out. But I’m happy for you-- so why do I still feel lonely?”
“I think… I think I’ve finally noticed just how easy the world seemed to be, with you in it. Maybe this whole time, you were a distraction? In a good way, from the world? And… and when you left… I don’t know what happened? I’ve noticed so many more things than I noticed before…? Like just how much a prick people were, and how Zabini seems to lies through his teeth until he ever so slightly flares his nose? Or how Pansy right eye crinkles more than other? I don’t know where I’m going with this…” he chuckled, his throat hoarse, but he pressed on.
“I don’t know what’s going with me, but maybe, after our splitting… it’s helped. And I won’t deny that I do miss you, but of course, I wouldn’t really manage to voice it out loud, though I think you’re well aware of my glances from across the classroom. You’re happy with Potter, rebound or not, I’m okay with it. Because it means that you’re glad, and that’s all I’ve ever wanted…” a sniffle came from Draco, and another laugh passed through his throat.
“Oh great, I’m getting all emotional… and you’re not even up, I’ve gotten so emotional it’s rather irritating. I won’t ever tell you this while you’re awake, but thank you, for everything. Another thing I did learn from all of this, is that I should probably eat, I’m starting to get frightened of myself with how bad I managed to look.” He smiled brightly, looking down at you.
A small smile passed through your lips as you softly giggled, and Draco’s immediately dropped.
“Bloody hell, you were awake? The whole time? The whole time? You didn’t bother to say anything ‘till now?” He jeered, his mind blown that he had confessed his feelings, and you heard everything. “And why are you even here? Shouldn’t you be with your boyfriend? Potter?”
“You know, you don’t have to be so grown-up all the time? It’s okay to tell me about these kinds of things, especially when they concern me?” You teasingly taunted, cracking your neck from your position as you raised a brow.
“You sound like you’ve had a sudden awakening of the world, and I don’t know if that’s exactly great… And I came here because you weren’t doing well, Harry can manage on his own.” You rolled your eyes, dismissively raising your hand in the air as you laughed. “I wanted to check up on you, and to talk to you.”
“There’s nothing really left to talk about,” Draco stated, shrugging. “I’ve said everything I wanted to say.”
“But I didn’t.” You replied smoothly, scooching over more towards Draco, taking your hand in his again. “I know we’ve ended things, and I’ve… fairly quickly went to Harry. But do know it was because he offered me emotional support, and I need to know if you have that too, Draco.”
Draco’s heart pounded in his chest and your words and then sank. Plummeted.
No. He thought. Of course, he didn’t have someone to talk to… you were that person he thought always would, and could.
“Of course,” Draco laughed, neglecting the brewing feeling within him, “I’ve always managed… this time will be no different.”
“It is different, Draco. The difference is you’ve been skipping on meals or having occasional blackouts, and honestly, I blame myself for you being like this every day,” you said, starting to tear up. Draco instantly leaned forward, wiping the small droplets.
“How is this your fault? We both ended it on a good note, (Y/N). Honestly, I’m amazed we did--”
“Draco, did you want to end the relationship?”
“Yes, it would’ve been best for both of us. We were having a fallout. We were slowly losing it a bit with everything going on, it was the best option--”
“Draco, who have you talked to, since we’ve broken up?” Draco’s mouth creased into a frown as he huffed.
“I’ve talked to multiple people! There’s Zabini, Pansy, Crabbe and Goyle…”
“No, Draco. I mean who have you talked to, all of this.” You gestured to his red face and puffy eyes. “Who have you talked to, about all your emotions, Draco? Draco, do you have someone to talk to?”
Draco’s head hanged low as he stared at the bedsheets, his eyes moving anywhere but yours. No.
His hand clasped yours as he stared deeply into your eyes, mouth tugging into a small smile.
“I’m doing okay now, (Y/N). And I will be, now that I’ve talked to you about it… though I thought you were asleep,” he ruffled your hair. “But do know, if Potter tries something I’ll duff him up a bit, y’know… as friends. One friend to another.” A small cough passed through your lips as you shook your head, your smile still growing.
“Well, if you ever need me, Draco. I’ll be there, especially now. Because now I need to make sure you eat.” You mocked, pinching his hand a little, shocking him as he let out a painful laugh. “Oh, knock it off, alright? I learned my lesson…” His voice dragged out, before his eyes soon lowered to his hands intertwined with yours.
“You should probably get back to Potter, he’ll be worried soon… visiting hours are technically over soon--”
“You sure are quick to try and get rid of me, aren’t you?” The question was meant to come off as a joke, however, Draco seemed startled.
“No! It’s not anything like that… you have your own life, and other people in it. Besides, we’re not together--”
“Doesn’t mean I can’t be there for you, right?” You reasoned, bending down to try and meet his eyes once more. “I may be Potter, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t there for each other. You haven’t lost me, Draco. I still care, whether we’re together or not.” The right side of Draco’s lips shifting up, tilting his head to the side as he spared you a glance.
“I don’t think Potter will be happy with that, I wouldn’t really be.”
“Who cares what Potter thinks? Or anyone else? As long as both of us know that it’s nothing like that, does it matter?”
“I guess not,” Draco laughed, his arms raising up as an act of surrender. “But I will not be responsible if he gets slugged out of the blue.” A surprised gasp was heard as you tackled Draco, slapping him (not harshly) on his shoulder and chest.
“I don’t him hurt… unless he deserved it,” you whispered the last part, barely audible. Draco’s eyes grew as he leaned a bit closer, smirking.
“What? What was that? I don’t think I heard you correctly,” he teased, his hands coming up to grasp your shoulders gently, leaning in. Your face flushed in embarrassment as you covered your face, shoving him away from you.
“Nothing! I said nothing!”
“Ya right,” Draco muttered, his hand tickling you to your side, making a loud gasp and a series of laughs to follow through. This continued for a few moments more before you had enough.
“Alright alright! I said if he deserves it you can do it…” you said frustrated, punching him in the air as you rolled off the bed and back into the little stool.
“I’ll make sure he deserves it first, and then make sure he knows he deserved it,” both of you laughed as he attempted to say it in his an intimidating voice. Leaning against his pillow, silence ensued as he stared at you. And the gears in his head turning again.
For a long time, it seemed that Draco had kept himself in the dark, hidden from most. But you were there, for him.
No, he didn’t miss your “couple” relationship with him. He didn’t need the hand-holding, kisses, or any real contact from your body. Not like that, at least.
It was just the feeling… the feeling of feeling at home, for once. The thought of knowing someone was always there, beside you, to emotionally give you support. It was in a way, a sense of belonging, not to the person, but the world.
There are all different types of relationships, Draco learned. Friendship can be just as powerful or more than having a spouse, because the love is still there… but maybe it’s overlooked.
Because in the end, both relationships are founded on love, respect, and caring.
Being with someone as a couple and being with them now as a friend gave Draco much more insight than he could ever imagine. About his friends, the world around him, his family. He didn’t need to completely break ties with you, after it all, he would just be as he always had--
Draco didn’t need you to come to back to him. He didn’t want to “win” you over from Potter. As he said, it was a mutual ending of the relationship… being together in that sense just wasn’t working. But it seemed to have that type of friend might last. One that was always there for each other.
And Draco was perfectly okay with that. He didn’t need to hold you in his arms romantically, cuddling and professing your love to each other.
No, he just needed a friend.
The thought of you with somebody else, now, was fine.
Because you could be with somebody else, in that type of relationship, but at the end of the day, he knew he still had you.
(Y/N) (L/N), both his ex and best friend.
And he wouldn’t have it any other way, at the end of the day.
Fin.
---
Hey!! Hope you enjoyed the story. For this one, I think I just really wanted to put in detail that Draco’s desire wasn’t exactly their relationship as a couple, but the relationship of feeling at ease, and at home. I wanted to express (though I think I did kind of poorly) just how important a friend could be, one you could trust, much more than simply having a significant other. It’s the mutual understanding of one another, and supporting them through everything they do.
It also brought me to the part where couples who split can still be friends, and sometimes that type of “love” just doesn’t work, but another one can rise. In this case, Draco seemed lost and disgusted more of the fact that he had thought he lost that feeling of home, and Harry becoming (Y/N)’s new sense of a home. Where in reality, he realizes being open and confronting her opened his eyes. I didn’t want them to end up together in the end ‘cause I didn’t think it would feel right, but for them to grow by accepting that they’ve split, and Draco’s just longed for someone to understand him rather than a partner.
I hoped you enjoyed it!! This probably has to be one of my favorite written pieces, strictly because I didn’t make them end up together in the end. And targeted Draco’s emotions in a piece rather than the reader. Thank you once again !!
