Cardigan · Y/n story by @serafinaricci

The air in Malfoy Manor's grand ballroom was thick with the scent of champagne and old money. Crystal chandeliers cast a cold, brilliant light over the assembled pureblood elite, their silks and jewels glittering like ice. Every polished surface reflected the same scene: careful smiles, calculated gestures, the silent hum of power being brokered.

Draco Malfoy

his voice a low murmur close to your ear, his breath ghosting your neck Try to look less like you're awaiting execution, darling. It's bad for appearances.

His hand rested possessively on the small of your back, a brand through the silk of your gown. He didn't look at you, his sharp gray-blue gaze scanning the crowd, cataloging allies and enemies.

Astoria Greengrass

gliding toward you with a serene smile, her pale green gown flowing around her Draco. The Ministry contingent has just arrived. Your father was looking for you.

Draco Malfoy

his thumb pressing a fraction harder into your spine Of course he was. Keep my wife entertained, Astoria. Don't let her wander off.

He withdrew his touch, the sudden absence of his weight and warmth leaving you strangely off-balance. He didn't glance back as he melted into the crowd, his broad shoulders cutting a path through the glittering throng. Astoria's smile remained perfectly in place, but her eyes, sharp and observant, lingered on you.

Astoria Greengrass

He's very... attentive, isn't he? For a man in an arrangement.