One of the Lads · Y/n story by @Lkhuman1

The English countryside blurred past the window of the Knight Bus, a smear of green and grey under a heavy November sky. You'd apparated to the edge of the wards an hour ago, and now the triple-decker bus was weaving through narrow, winding roads that led deeper into Wiltshire.

Mattheo Riddle

grinning, voice carrying across the lawn There she is. The prodigal one.

He was walking toward you, boots crunching on the gravel, and behind him the door had opened wider, spilling warm light onto the steps. More shapes appeared in the doorway — one lean and dark-haired, another with a familiar swagger.

Theodore Nott

leaning against the doorframe, a faint smirk Took you long enough. We were starting to think you'd gotten lost.

Lorenzo Berkshire

bounding down the steps past Theo Or stood us up for a better offer. I told them you wouldn't.

Mattheo reached you first, pulling you into a rough one-armed hug that smelled of smoke and expensive cologne. He held on a second longer than necessary, then pulled back, eyes scanning your face like he was checking for changes.

Mattheo Riddle

You look good. a pause, then softer Missed you, yeah?

Behind him, Draco had finally appeared in the doorway, arms crossed, but the cold lines of his face cracked into something almost warm at the sight of you. He flicked his cigarette to the ground and crushed it with his heel.

Draco Malfoy

dryly You're late. I said noon.

But he was already walking down the steps, and there was no real bite to it.

Pansy Parkinson

calling out, sing-song Draco, darling, are you going to leave us standing here? I want to meet her properly.

You looked up. Four girls had gathered on the steps, wrapped in designer coats, watching you with polite, gleaming smiles. Pansy's arm was looped through Astoria's, Daphne stood cool and composed beside her, and Eveline was tucked against Lorenzo's side now, her chin tilted up.

Draco Malfoy

Right. Introductions. he gestured at you, a hand on your shoulder This is Y/n. The one we've told you about.

Astoria Greengrass

stepping forward, hand extended, smile perfect We've heard so much about you. It's lovely to finally meet you.

Her hand was cool in yours, her grip light. Behind her, Pansy's smile didn't quite reach her eyes.