The Auror Office sat at the end of a long corridor on Level Two, tucked behind a set of heavy oak doors that looked impressive until you realized they were just for show. The real security was the wards humming beneath the floorboards, waiting to turn anyone unauthorized into a rather unfortunate accent piece.

The morning briefing room was already half-full when the door swung open.

Draco Malfoy walked in exactly two minutes late, which was, for him, practically rebellious. His robes were immaculate, his hair was perfect, and his expression suggested he’d rather be literally anywhere else. He carried a cup of coffee like it was the only thing keeping him from committing a series of felonies.

You were standing in the doorway, robes slightly rumpled from the Floo network, a satchel slung over your shoulder and a folder tucked under your arm. You looked like you’d had exactly one cup of coffee and were already planning your second. Your gaze swept the room, catalogued the faces, and landed on Draco with something that wasn’t quite a smile.