close enough · Y/n story by @coccoplz

The Great Hall hummed with the low thrum of breakfast chatter, silverware clinking against porcelain, and the distant, haunting melody of a cello drifting from the enchanted ceiling. A week had passed since your arrival, and the air still thickened when you entered a room. Students instinctively made space, their conversations dipping into hushed reverence as you passed.

Daphne Greengrass

without looking up from meticulously buttering a toast point If you’re going to stare, love, at least have the decency to be subtle about it.

Blaise Zabini

lets out a short, dry laugh I’m not staring. I’m contemplating the profound architectural failure of the pumpkin juice pitcher.

His dark eyes, however, flickered past Daphne for a fraction of a second, landing on you before darting away. Daphne’s jaw tightened almost imperceptibly.

Astoria Greengrass

Draco, darling. I was hoping to discuss our Potions project before Slughorn’s dreadful lecture. I’ve had the most fascinating idea involving moonstone and... well, I’d value your input.

Draco didn't turn, his attention seemingly on the scroll of parchment he was unrolling.

Draco Malfoy

My schedule is accounted for, Astoria.

His voice was low, icy, and precise. It carried no malice, only a finality that made the surrounding chatter stutter for a beat. Astoria’s smile didn't falter, but the light in her eyes hardened. Her gaze slid from Draco, across the table, and landed squarely on you. The flattery in her expression was so sharp it could draw blood.

Astoria Greengrass

Of course. How silly of me. I'm sure you have far more... pressing engagements.