Lutbys

-

Jessie observed her sister as she empties the contents of her dressing table into her knapsack since there wasn't much to pack. Since moving into 221B soon after John claimed the home lonesome, they never considered using what would have been their rent money on more clothes because it wasn't much of a necessity. What they had was sufficient enough.

"You know, East London means every person involved in the high society would be there. And sometimes," she paused, watching for any of Bea's tics, "Royalty. Maybe Leo-"

"Jess. You should start packing now or I'm going to leave you behind." Bea couldn't stand the thought of his face flashing into her mind let alone have someone remind her of him. She fought long and hard to think of anything else, to dream of anything other than those nights. The night they connected, the night they parted, the night Bea realized her heart can soar for another person, not just Jessie, or the night she met mum again for a few agonizing minutes.

It's been almost three whole years. Neither he nor she should be relevant to each other anymore. There are other things Bea had to prioritize. Like the safety of her friends, and Jessie.

-

"Now, remember. Brunette. Around 5 feet, and she doesn't have a nail on her pinky. Pray she is not wearing gloves or we will be here all night." Bill stopped the group before entering the gates of the property. The giant building glowed with yellow light, a couple of drunk riches littered the neatly trimmed garden, roaring with laughter. "Split up. We'll meet in 20."

"What? No. I'm not leaving Jessie alone." Jessie awed at her love, gripping his arm tighter in adoration and a somewhat- silent agreement.

"Fine. You both mingle with the crowd. Bill and I will go through the wings." And from there, they parted.

-

Bea was left to scour through the South and West wing. The house is awfully big, with the halls feeling never-ending and faux lanterns keeping the ambience dim and almost eerie.

Every window occupied a small balcony overlooking the grass yard. Some had small two-seater benches perched right in the middle, some didn't.

She pressed herself flat against the grooves of a door as she hears quiet giggling on the other side of the hall. The voices seemed to come out of the last balcony available, right out of eyesight. Bingo.

As the girl crept closer to her target, she curses at her satin-lined dress for making so much noise. If she could, she would have disguised as a man a long time ago but her face gave her away every time. It was a good thing her outfit merely matched the dark velvet curtains, if she needed to, Bea could easily hide between the heavy drapes.

And that is exactly what she did as she got to the ajar window. Inching closer and closer, she could see out the balcony clearly though, between the layers of fabric of her dress and the overlapping curtains, she was pressed tightly against the wall.

"Oh you don't have to be so sneaky Lee, no one can see nor hear us from here. Look how empty it is down there." The young woman pawed at his suit. She stood a head shorter than the man but is easily hidden by his broad shoulders, giving Bea only a slice of her face to analyse under sheer moonlight.

If she had to see them bang, she would rather get out of there as soon as possible.

But the thought of disappointing John and failing the case felt like a punch in the gut.

This has got to be the killer. Brunette. Petite. Though, almost everyone in London had the same goal in terms of their figure.

The man sported a deep chuckle, leaning down to bury his face in her hair in an attempt to hide his grin. His hands held a seductive grip around her waist, his thumb softly circling her bodice.

Maybe now she would kill him? Bea had front row seats to something much more interesting after all.

The woman started pushing the man towards the edge balcony using soft nudges and quiet giggles,

Attempted suicide?

And that's when Bea had to hold in a gasp. In their midst of movement, she didn't think to look at who the man was. By now, the killer's back was to her, exposing the deep cut of her dress along with a face she never thought she would see again.

If Jessie was here, they would have been caught long ago.

Leo looked older, his face more structured and hollow. Maybe it was just the darkness that accentuated it further than it was, but he still looked beautiful. As beautiful as he did back then, maybe even more. Covering him was no longer his blue coat, instead, the crisp collared shirt made him look put together, and rich, so very rich.

Bea hated that she had to look at him like this. Happy and dazy. Watching his eyes twinkle as he tucks a lock of hair between the woman's ear and leans in.

She's going to be sick.

She didn't care if that bitch was the killer, she could kill him for all Bea cares. The flustered girl fought her way out of her hiding spot, not caring if it made a sound or made an obvious movement that made Leo's attention stray a little, she really didn't. She sprinted down the hall and made her way back to the event as a stray tear slipped. Stupid tear.

-

Tables lined the perimeter of the large room, filled to the brim with delicatessens and tiny pastries, but the whole arrangement didn't surprise the young prince as he heads to the line of assorted punch displayed in intricate glass jars.

"Oh, sorry." He apologises as he lurched forwards from the blow, why was he the one apologising?

"That's alright. Only a small matter maybe a- Leo." The culprit let out a small choke, retreating back the hand he held out to shake.

Leo stiffened at the recognition of his voice. Spike. He looked to his right, Jessie!

He was speechless. Never did he think he would see anyone he recognised and actually be happy to see them.

Before he could let out a coherent sentence, he was pulled out of the room and into a dark corner with Jessie trailing behind.

"W-What are you doing here? I'm so glad to see you both-"

"I knew you were going to be here. It was too obvious! Wait until I tell Bea." The young girl interrupted

Bea. His Bea.

"Bea's here. Where is she? I need to see her." All the scenarios he could make up of meeting the girl occupied his mind, fully aware of his rapid heart and the warm flush of his cheeks from just imagining her shy smile.

The prince's eyes darted from each of his friend's sceptical faces, getting more irritated that they weren't leading him to her as the minutes pass.

“baby’s breath? Yeah, you know they’re my favourite.”

“Okay but would you say they were there at the top of your list of favourite flowers? Like the top, top? How about, maybe tulips?”

“Of course!” your eyebrows knitted in confusion as you watched him trip over his words and discreetly fiddle with the hem of his shirt. “Jason. What did you do?”

Your mind instantly diverted back to a year ago, your first anniversary. The day hadn’t gone the way you wanted to, far from it and having the thought of going back home to your love and snuggling your worries away sounded perfect.

What you didn’t consider was the state of your home being bombarded with bouquets upon bouquets of tulips, so much so that the door resisted her to go in.

“Jason! What did you do!?” you hollered from the front door, shoving your way in between pastel petals.

The boy was bamboozled by your early appearance as he too, struggled among the mess, “W-what? You’re not meant to be back for another 2 hours.”

It was almost too dramatic the way you collapsed on the floor, tears following suit. The day had been too overwhelming. Later, you found yourself in bed your pupils following every movement Jason made as he cleared the house of broken stems and tissue paper.

-

“I might’ve done something. It’s not much really, it’s not like last year I swear.”

“What. Is. It. Jason.”

Slowly, he took off his shirt, revealing not only his upper body but a small patch of cling film that glistened on his left peck. As you neared, you could make out the faint lines that etched into said flower.

“Jason.”

“I know, it was a reckless decision. I shouldn’t have done it-“

“I-I love it.”

“You do?”

Your fingers found their way around his neck, enveloping him into your embrace, “I thought, since you like them so much, every time I look at it, I’d think of you.”

you listened as Jason’s steady breath started to quiver, his muscles twitching at your touch,

“You will be the death of me baby,”

 - BONUS -

“What do you mean?”

“Dicks got everyone training harder now that he’s gone all emo. I won’t be back until late tonight. Will you be okay?”

“Yeah, I guess. Or I could just meet you at the tower?”

“Are you sure? I don’t like you walking alone in this area.”

“I’ll be fine Jason. Out of all the people I know, you should be aware that I can take care of myself, plus-“

Your hands trailed up his abdomen, stopping just above his heart. The exact spot your tattoo is etched. Your eyes stayed on his as your finger started tracing the tattoo again.

You watched as his eyes flutter, pushing himself closer so that the tip of your lips were touching, close enough that your breaths mingled.

Your feet tapped on the stone stairs quietly, book in hand as you made a bee line to the common room. it was dark, any surface the light of the fireplace didn’t touch was dark enough to be considered non-existent.

The fireplace was your favourite part of the dungeon. It blazing fire glowed beautifully, and the crackling of wood provided you white noise for nights like these, nights were your mind is awake and unwilling to let yourself into deep slumber.

“For fucks sake.” You heard someone whisper-grunt. You jumped out of your shoes, who could still be up this late?

Your head snapped towards the voice and it led you to the table on the farthest corner of the room, a small lantern being the only source of light that illuminated the voices features.

“Malfoy?” 

The boys head snapped up and his face glowed orange, accentuating the small bags under his eyes.

“What you do want y/l/n?”

“That’s not how you greet a fellow sixth year.” You chuckled. Its only been the fifth time you’ve talked to the boy, having only had to create conversation whenever you were with pansy. You weren’t as close as one would think, what with having the same group of friends and all. “Whatcha doin’?”

The table he occupied was covered with layers upon layers of wrapping paper and gifts, to the far corner sat three messily wrapped gifts, wrapped was an understatement. “Wrapping?”

“Seems like you’ve answered yourself y/l/n”

“d’you need any help?”

“Wouldn’t need it if mother didn’t have a no giftbag rule.” He rolled his eyes, struggling to peel of the tape that had miraculously stuck itself together. “This is bullshit!” in anger, he balled up a the piece of wrapping paper he used and tossed it behind him.

“Let me help you. Good thing, I know how to and don’t possess anger management issues.” To that, Draco glared but nevertheless pushed the gifts towards you.

With elegance, you wrapped a book, its edges crisp and the ends tucked neatly with a single piece of tape. “See! It’s like folding clothes, but not so much.” “Atypical for you to know how to wrap” 

“What’s that supposed to mean?” You moved on to the next gift “I mean, all these years I’ve known you, I’ve never seen you fold anything.” He leaned back in his seat; his eyes glued to your hands as they reach out for the tape.

“Technically, there should be no room for you to comment since you know so little of me.”

To your surprise, the conversation flowed well. Considering his witty remarks and rude sarcasm, Draco was actually good company. With your book long forgotten, the only story you acknowledged were the ones coming out of the blonde boys mouth.

“How about animals. What d’you like?” he asked, fingering with the crisp corners of a cylindrical wrapped gift.

“Snakes. Typical for a Slytherin but there’s just something about them that’s intriguing.”

“Care to elaborate?”

“Like, the flowerpot snake which are made up solely off of females and doesn’t need a mate to reproduce yet, they are the most widespread terrestrial snake in the world or- or the fact that a decapitated head of a snake can still bite and hold more venom than usual.”

Draco eyed you as your eyes gleamed from the thought of snakes, subconsciously gesturing with your hands passionately. 

“But I guess the real reason I like snakes is because we used to own one when I was little. Scales. The sweetest little thing that changed my mind completely about them.”

The boy let out a small chuckle, “Scales? Come on y/l/n, there are better names.”

“Hey! I was young and the privilege to get to name her got to me okay.”

“So where’s Scales now?”

Your head ducked, the biggest secret of your life close to slipping from your tongue. “I. It’s- it’s complicated.”

Taking it as a sign, Draco quickly averted the subject knowing he himself wasn’t comfortable with death, -if that was- the case.

The night went on until event he fireplace couldn’t keep up with their company, the fire slowly dimming to a faint, faint glow.

“I should start packing I doubt I can bring much home with all this occupying the space.” He lifted the big bag of presents neatly wrapped because of you. “Will I be seeing you again at the train?”

“No, not this year. I’ll be celebrating it with the elves and most possibly Almost Headless Nick. He pretty good company once you get used to his same performance.” You both giggled at the thought of the ghost boring the students with his same act, only satisfied at the inexperienced first years.

Draco’s heart sank. He tried to push the thought away but after the past couple hours, he regretted not talking to you sooner and now, he had no excuse to use the long ride back home to get to know you better.

“Alright then, I guess I’ll see you after break. Goodnight.”

“Draco wait-“ he barely turned around before your arms encircled around his neck, pulling him into a tight hug. For a while, your heart stammered from his lack of response but instantly relaxed when his hands finally found their way around you. “Thank you for tonight. Like snakes, my perspective changed about you.” 

“Glad to know y/l/n. I’d say the same.” You both pulled away with a smile, neither wanting to end the moment but the quiet whispers of dawn approaching did. You slept that morning with the same smile, completely ignoring the loud shuffling of your dormmates rushing to the station with the bliss you felt for your new acquaintance.

-

Christmas morning felt lonelier than usual, what with barely seven people staying back at Hogwarts, the only sounds coming form the great hall being the quiet clatter of utensils and the elves sweeping the floors.

You sat alone at the table, book in hand. The same book you had that night with Draco, the same book you could never finish because you got distracted every few sentences thinking of the same boy.

Finding it useless to finish the chapter among the small distractions, your feet padded back towards your bedroom, the mound of pillows and blankets ready to sink you in the plush. 

Instead, your eyes caught on your once vacant bedside table that now occupied an envelope with your name neatly written on top.

Your hands quickly fiddled with the seal and a small box dropped onto your lap. Opening the letter you read:

The thought of you spending Christmas alone gutted me so here’s my gift to you. It’s not much but I think you’d like it. It symbolizes how I feel about you. Like snakes, you intrigue me. Looking forward to see you again. Draco. p.s. Tell Nick that his jokes aren’t funny for me. That’s my gift for him.

Your fingers found their way to the box. Sleek with the company’s name engraved on top in gold emboss. As you opened it, the sight of the necklace took your breath away.

Accompanying the silver chain was a delicate snake pendant, its details giving texture as you grazed your thumb around it, completely mesmerized by the thing like it was treasure. You sat there for what could have been hours just staring at the beautiful piece of jewellery before you had the nerve to put it on, the snake sitting beautifully on your chest. 

Like it belonged there.

“Merlin that thing is huge. What the hell is it?” Draco grimaced at the claw clip that held your locks together, proudly sporting the colour of your house.

“It’s a butterfly clip. Never heard of it Malfoy?” you teased as you fixed the loose strand of your fringe that managed to escape, watching as Draco stared at your actions intently.

He was mesmerized. Sure, it was true before that thing came along he could never really see your face. You always had you hair covering it and it would completely engulf when your nose was in a book- which was always. He never realized how defined your features really were. You took his breath away. Utterly and completely.

“N-no, because I don’t acknowledge stupid things like butterfly clips” He started to restack his books and quill. The boy knew if he’d stay for longer he wouldn’t get anything done. This new revelation of you had him flustered and he needed space to think. A space you weren’t in.

-

“I still remembered how I stayed at this exact tower for hours that day thinking about you.” Draco tucked a strand behind your ear, his smile widens as he sees you lean against his hand. 

“Who knew, a boy like you would fall in love with me because of a clip.” Your entire being tingles as you feel his arms encircle you, the smell of him engulfing you like a warm, protective blanket.  

Its been two years. And a lot has changed. Here you both were, in the same spot Draco confessed to you, the same spot where you both had your first date, the same spot he told you he loved you.

“I wonder what it would be like if that moment never happened.”

“are you trying to jinx it Malfoy?”

- You were smart enough to bring lunch because the cafeteria and pastry shops around you were all closed.

- But the thermos of coffee you brought was getting closer and closer to finishing. 

- During your break, you ventured out to the lobby where a small standalone coffee vending machine stood. A savior to many.

- But someone was there before you, kicking the poor machine and grunting profanities.

- He didn’t notice you until you abruptly coughed to get his attention.

- “The machine’s broken. The one thing we needed to keep ourselves sane and its faulty, like this shift isn’t crap enough.”

- “I think there’s a couple sachets of coffee in the communal kitchen, you’re welcome to join?”

- He followed suit. Conveniently, it was near your office.

- “How come I don’t see you around?” the man stood a foot taller than you, his face plastered with curiosity. 

- “I don’t go out much. I-I bring my own lunch and the only time I’d come out is to go home.” You said sheepishly

- “figures”

- “What do you mean?”

- “I would’ve noticed someone like you. You’re easy to be around, plus, you’re beautiful.”

- His words made you bLUSH and stumble over your words

- “d’you want to work together? Its getting pretty lonely upstairs. It’d be nice for some company.” He suggested, but all you could focus on were his hands which were big enough to engulf the whole mug.

- “Can you leave your post?”

- “Yeah, it’s mostly just signing papers and reading through proposals”

- And your Christmas day turned for the better. Here you were, with this random stranger who has completely caught your interest through endless conversations and punny jokes that by the end of the day, you had fallen in love.

“I got y/n! Pretty lucky huh?” at least one worked. Saved her from the hassle of having to deal with two problems.

“Excuse me” Hermione dismisses herself and took in the sight in front of her. The secret Santa group was much bigger than their usual friend group, varying from different houses so they could widen their acquaintances. So how was she going to find who got Ron? The swap is in three days, there was no way she could sift through everyone.

That night, she stayed up later than she would, a peculiar behavior that doesn’t occur much, but had to be done. Once she hears your breathing slow and your body still from slumber, Hermione sneaked to your side of the shared dorm, reaching for your bag that leaned against your dusty briefcase.

And just like that, the girl switched the two papers, which, not to toot her own horn, looked identical to each other.

She slept soundly knowing her hijack was going as planned.

-

Hermione entered your dorm with the sight of you gleaming at your bedsheets. It was then she realized you were actually admiring the spread of candy you bought a couple days ago at Honeydukes, oblivious to the switch. Poor girl.

“Come here! Look look! I’m going the be the best secret Santa yet!” She walked up to your bedpost and fingered the different packages that laid in front of her, from chocolate frogs to cockroach clusters, it was safe to assume you had bought the whole shop.

“This is what you’re getting Ron? Come on y/n, I thought you could do better than that. A confession of love maybe?” Hermione teased, watching her best friends eyes widen as your hands instinctively slapped her arm.

“What are you talking about! I got Neville remember?”

“Are you sure?” her teasingly manner made you rummage through your bag for the same piece of paper you read a couple days ago. True enough, instead of the seven-letter name you were expecting, his name was etched on the center of the parchment in perfect handwriting.

Ron

Your eyes widened at the sudden change, reading it over and over again to make sure you weren’t hallucinating, 

Then how did I remember it being Neville?

“But weren’t you the one who asked me that night? How could I make such a careless mistake?” Hermione turned her back towards you, afraid that her mischievous grin would ruin her genius plan.

“Oh! I don’t know! I’ve been so busy these past few days, who knows what I remember?” 

“Mione! What do I do! This is far from what Ron deserves and the swap is tomorrow! Merlin, I’m screwed.” You pushed the candy aside, the excitement and enthusiasm you had a couple minutes ago completely diminished.

“Exactly what I said! This is the time you should confess! Come on y/n! When else are you given an opportunity this big! And close to Christmas to top it all off!” Hermione took your hands in hers, giving a convincing enough stare for you to break.

-

Straight after dinner, the whole group gathered again in the room of requirement. Harry managed to conjure up the same one all because Ron had left his potions textbook in it, a typical trait of his.

Hermione sat herself next to nerve wrecked you, your hands shook the small envelop you were clasping.

This is going to be good.

“Why don’t we go counterclockwise?” And the secret Santa swap started. One by one everyone started to reveal themselves, and laughter erupted after every present given.

A couple of you were the last to go, and soon, your turn kept coming closer and closer.

“Ready y/n?” Hermione watched you meekly nod as you fingered the corners of the envelope.

“M-My secret Santa. Was Ron.” You quickly handed the envelope to him, your face getting hotter and hotter every second.

Merlin, he’s going to hate it

Ron carefully opened the envelope and its contents. Inside held drawings of a basket, a checkered mat, and foods he recognized as his favorite. 

“I don’t get it.” 

His eyes shifted between the drawings and the girl in front him who was chewing her lip nervously.

“It’s a picnic! I know its not much but for an evening of your choice, I will set up a picnic with all your favorite foods and I will treat you like a gracious host.” You stutter, your nerves going haywire as he goes through every illustration, quietly chuckling.

“Treacle pudding. Only you know that’s my favorite y/n” his statement made you blush, reminiscing the time the both of you snuck into the kitchens all because he was craving a bite. “Thank you, really y/n/n. This is the best gift anyone’s given me.”

Your eyes connected and in that moment in time, the world stopped, and the surrounding noise went quiet. In that moment in time, it was just the both of you.

“Ron! What about you?” Hermione interrupted, pushing his wrapped gift closer. The flustered boy lost track of his words, instead of forming a coherent sentence, he was a blubbering mess.

“This is for you.” He said after composing himself, pushing the gift to you.

It was obvious whatever hid behind the wrapping paper was a book, the structural integrity gave it away instantly. But what you did not expect was it being the reenactment of your favorite book. The same book that brought you and Ron closer, the same book that made him fall completely in love with you.

You ran your fingers through the embossed design of the front cover, this edition was far better than the one you had now, the gold finishing gave the book another form of life, it was a beauty.

“Ron, I can’t believe it.”

“Do you like it? It was a hard find but I knew seeing the look on you face would be worth it.” Your heart soared as he fumbled with his words, the fact that you were awestruck made him giddy.

It didn’t take long for you to completely jump on him, engulfing him in a hug. His whole being made you loose your senses, you could smell the same scent when you made your amortentia potion, your skin tingled as he hugged your waist, and you didn’t have to look to see that he had the same face he made whenever he was with you.

And you with him.

-

“So who got me then?” Neville looked like a mixture of angry and confused. In the span of the whole swap, Ron managed to get two gifts whereas Neville got none.

“There must’ve been a mix up in all this. This is why you shouldn’t be too adventurous and invite so many people Mione” Harry lectured, knowing well into the early stages that this gathering wouldn’t have worked as perfectly as the girl planned.

The little light in your brain shone, that little minx!

You watched you best friend grin sheepishly at the situation, apologizing to the poor boy who sulked by himself.

“It’s okay Neville, I have a bunch of candy from Honeydukes that I can give you. Better to give it away than let it go to waste.”

“Thank you y/n, you’re a blessing.” 

As for Hermione, you pulled her arm closer to you as you whispered, “I don’t know whether I should thank you or hex you, you sly fox.” 

“Typical of y/n to back out at the last minute. What next? You didn’t plan on getting married so why host a wedding?” you hear Draco scoff as he descended down the stairs that lead to the dorms, his arms tucked into each other and his face disgruntled just like how he would every time he caught sight of you.

“Shut it Malfoy. I don’t see you being of much help either.” To that he only scoffed and turned his back to join in on a conversation with Blaise.

It wasn’t rocket science for anybody to realize you and Draco were never on the same page. Its been like this since the first year, from the awful hair pulling to sabotaging each other’s cauldrons during potions class. You never knew why but when you first caught sight of the boy, you’d knew you’d hate him.

“Now that the venue is all settled, Nott, Zabini and I are going to Hogsmeade for the snacks. Draco you coming?” Pansy ticked off errands from her endless to do list, her eyes racking through the list multiple times like the perfectionist she is.

“Waste my time walking around? No thank you.”

“Then its settled, Draco you can help y/n doll this place up. The faster, the better.” Before he could utter an excuse, the busy girl had pushed the two other boys away and exited the common room.

You stood in awe at the situation your best friend put you in. The two of you stood dumbfoundedly among the boxes as you raked your brain on how you were going to turn this musty dungeon into a welcoming hall.

“I suggest we throw all this shit out and call it a day.” Draco grunted, kicking a box of ornaments till it toppled and you watched as three glittery green globes fall and break into little pieces. “Unlike you, I actually have important things to do.”

“Like what? Being a git? Who do you think is going to clean that up Draco?” You bit back, pointing to the scatter of broken glass that once used to be delicate trinkets. 

“you know what? I’ve had enough of you for today. I’m going to decorate this part of the room” You gestured your hands around the fireplace “And you can decorate all the way over there”

With a dramatic roll of his eyes, Draco agreed and moved over to the tables along with his pick of decorative items.

-

You’ve been staring at the fireplace for longer than you wished but your mind is blank. Completely blank. And you dreaded to turn and see how much Draco has done because all you’ve been hearing for the past half hour are the crinkles of the tinsel and his frustrated moans whenever the wrapping paper didn’t fold the way he wanted it to.

Your eyes shifted from box to box as you tried to come up with something creative. Sure, your living room back at home would look extravagant to guests but that was all mom’s doing, all you had to do was help put them up. 

-

It was the absence of the gold chain that once perched itself on top of the dodgy Santa stuffy that caught your attention.

I swear I saw it a moment ago

You were also wondering why the gold star for the tree was missing too! After rummaging through the countless number of boxes, there was only one other person you could think of to have stolen it.

“Oi Malfoy! Next time you take something from my side, ask!” You rolled your eyes at his obliviousness.

“Why would I want things from your side? Mine looks better to begin with.” “Then where did the star for the Christmas tree go?” your confusion grew as he mirrored your expression. What is happening?

Just then, you caught sight of a little dark grey blob running across the room, its little feet making little to no noise against the carpeted floors. You and Draco turned to each other with wide eyes, Care of Magical Creatures taught you well enough to identify it as a Niffler, the little rodent who steals.

“What the hell are we going to do?” you whisper-shouted, eyeing the single seated sofa you last saw it run by.

“Its your problem y/l/n. I’m not touching that thing.” 

“Don’t be daft Malfoy, if we don’t catch it, your stupid watch will be next!” Draco scoffed at your exaggeration, but his reaction quickly dimmed as he fingered his wrist at where his fathers watch used to be.

“My watch! You jinxed it you little minx.” 

“See! If we don’t catch it now who knows what will be nex- Hey!” you watched the sly critter reach out for the string of tinsel on the floor, barely grabbing hold before going back into hiding.

Your feet worked faster than your brain as you lurched towards the sofa, trying to grab hold of its little tail but to no avail, it was faster. “Draco look out! He’s coming your way!” 

Before it could dodge the white-haired boy, Draco had caught it swiftly. The poor creature tried to wriggle himself to escape, but Draco’s grip was stronger. “Hagrid’s right. It does feel funny.” His face grimaced at the sight of the thing, its flat beak and teeny arms was not sitting right for him.

“From what I remember, all you have to do is hold it by its hind legs and shake it.” You watched him follow your instructions and everything instantly fell out of its pocket. From coins to a small piece of confetti, it rained gold. You laughed in bewilderment at the sight in front of you. Sure, you’ve learned anything and everything about these magical creatures but having the opportunity to see one in real life was quite a scene to remember. It seemed Draco too was amused with the sight.

“What a cheeky little rat! Look at all he’s stolen.” Draco said after trapping the Niffler in a nearby crate. “I don’t think this is the only house he visited.” He held out a gold Gryffindor badge that once belonged to a prefect.

“That was pretty impressive. Never seen one in my life!” your hand raked through the lost knick-knacks like it was a treasure chest. “I’m going to put this back, Pansy should be back anytime now and I know she’d freak if she came back to this mess.”

Draco too took the liberty of scooping from the pile and just then, your hands touched. You couldn’t tell if it was the adrenaline of having seen a Niffler or never have had contact with Draco, but it felt different. Almost, nice. 

It was when you looked up when you realized how close you both were to each other, close enough that your breaths mingled, close enough that if your lips were to touch-

“We’re back and we’re ready for the biggest party yet!” Pansy excitement boomed from the picture frame they entered through; her hands filled with bags from Honeydukes. 

Like acid being poured over, you both pulled away instantaneously. “What the hell happened in here!” The once happy girl’s smile went agape when she saw the mess beyond her. The chairs were toppled, the lights that were supposed to be on the walls were scattered on the floor, and a suspicious looking crate was moving on its own.

“We had a bit of a Niffler situation” you scratched the back of your neck guiltily, you had failed the one task you were given, and miserably at that. “But it’s okay! I promise you I will fix all of it.” Your words seemed to encourage her, knowing her trust on you was strong.

“You have an hour and an HOUR only.”

-

“The most memorable party of the year!”

“This beats Gryffindor’s for sure” 

You rolled your eyes at the cocky compliments thrown around, knowing well enough it all came from your group of friends. You didn’t know how, but you miraculously made this place lively with the time given. Having your friends entertain you whilst at it added bonus points. Now, you awed at how the lights made the room glow and the green, black and white banners hung proudly by the fireplace.

But one thing kept running through your mind as the party went on in full swing.

Draco.

You couldn’t get this afternoons incident out of your head. You never noticed how his eyes were so mesmerizing and his scent so intoxicating that you would have all your clothes doused to smell like it. 

And he couldn’t get you out of his head too.

Draco stood lonely near the staircases, having no mood to mingle as he was knackered from the days events. But it was also an excuse to think over things when it came to you. He rewinded the scene over and over again, wondering what would happen it the moment never stopped, if Pansy wouldn’t have opened her loud mouth and disturbed them.

You both parted -quickly at that- as soon as the group came back, not daring to look into each others eyes for the rest of the evening.

But here you were, searching through the crowds for the one pair of eyes that had made your heart stop.

And you found them.

Until one night when you decided to use one of the new shampoos you got from a bomb bath and body work sale which ended with a plethora of shower products piled in your bathroom cupboards. He immediately noticed once you got out of the bathroom where the usual smell that made him weak was replaced with a mix of coconuts and almonds. So, he took it upon himself to rid said shampoo and any others that didn’t smell like the real you. He searched high and low for good hiding spots you wouldn’t even think of, finally satisfied when he found a hidden compartment in your laundry room because he knew how much you hated doing the washing. 

You questioned him the next morning when you found your shower caddy emptier than usual but all he responded with were short, brief answers, trying his hardest to not shift his gaze towards the white cabinet that was maxed out of her bottles. You started to give up after a few hours of searching and dealing with Jason’s stubbornness, giving him the silent treatment up until he had to leave when Dick called him for training. Going back to your usual routine, you took your time getting ready before you too head to the tower to meet the rest for dinner. With more time to spare than you thought, you forced yourself to gather your dirty clothes, somewhat helping future you when it came to really having to do your laundry. There, your curiosity got the best of you when one of the cabinets was slightly ajar, revealing the lost bottles of body washes, shampoos and body lotions you were looking for all morning. 

The elevator doors opened to the sight of everyone hanging in the common room, all wet haired and refreshed from training. You immediately spotted the vacant seat beside Jason that he always reserves for you when he knew you were coming over, giving small smiles to the others. Without disturbing Dick who was still briefing, you snuggled to Jason’s side, tucking your feet under yourself. He didn’t need to turn to realize it was you as he inwardly grinned at the scent you brought in, knowing you had given in. He turned his head to where it was against his chest, resting his nose on top of your head and not so subtly sniffing your hair, hugging you closer. 

Jason didn’t leave your side for the whole night, catching whiffs here and there even through the numerous teases he got form Gar which resulted to him brutally insulting the green haired boy. That night, you both were huddled in the duvet, bodies entangled in each other like a peculiar puzzle piece. 

Promise me you won’t change it

From the looks of the last couple days you knew exactly what it was

You’ve spent the last week in the library, the spot you’ve chosen had been vacated by you and you only so much so that at the end of the day, you didn’t bother packing up your things, knowing well enough you’d be the first to be back in the spot.

However, you pity your boyfriend for not being so social these past few days, having to brush off any late-night dates where you both would sneak up to the astronomy tower, or simply conversing in the great hall. You especially miss his eyes, those pretty eyes who would look at you in admiration and love, making you weak in the knees.

Ron understood though, he’s seen you struggle for the past few years and had been completely understanding to your mood swings regarding the exams. He was so supportive; offering to sneak out some food for you to eat in the library, running out to get more paper when he notices your on your last one, or even letting you use his dorm to study in so you both could be together. 

-

As the days go by, the closer O.W.L.S got, and you too were close to losing your sanity. You hadn’t gone to eat dinner at the great hall for what feels like forever, strictly lasting on whatever you had in your trunk from all those Hogsmeade visits you’ve wasted. You’ve also completely lost contact with your friends as the only trips you made now were from your bed to the library. 

As much as Ron wanted to be supportive, he knew what his girlfriend was doing was too much. These past couple of days, he couldn’t even catch sight of her as she is like a little mouse, so quick and quiet with her footsteps. And he was worried because all throughout breakfast, lunch, and dinner he hasn’t caught a glimpse of you yet and the thought of you starving yourself because of some stupid exam had his gut-wrenching. 

So, he took it upon himself to sneak into the kitchen and grab whatever he could before the elves noticed which consisted of three soup buns, a sandwich, and a suspiciously old-looking brownie. Not the best selection, but it was better than nothing.

He had already checked the library before-hand and seeing as your seat was unoccupied with no books laying around, he knew exactly where to go, by now it was all muscle memory.

He pushed the door to your room open with his free hand, the other, stacked high with food as he awaited for your face to appear with glee at the sight of him like you normally would. But what he did not expect was his love, crying in her pillows.

He dropped everything in his hands as fast as he could, frantically placing the food on your study table, and came to your side as fast as he could move. “What’s wrong? Baby? Please talk to me.” He cooed, gathering you in his arms, your body shaking beneath him as he cursed himself for not noticing earlier. Through the loud sobs and hiccups, he didn’t dare push you further when you didn’t answer. Instead, whispering sweet nothings into your ear in hopes of calming you down.

For a while, they both curl in together, with Ron’s hand stroking your hair ever so softly, like his love was a fragile porcelain doll.

-

“I must be really stupid to not even remember a simple subject like muggle studies, I’m the worst wizard in this school and I hate myself for thinking I could actually ace the owls.” 

It was late, 3am late, but that was how long it took for you to regain yourself, and you hated to bother your boyfriend, who was sleepier than ever but denied it whenever you ask.

But your comment had woken him up.

“Don’t you dare say that about yourself y/n! I never want to hear you speak of such things like that again, you’re big and strong and no one is as capable as you are.” He took this opportunity to properly look at you, bags hung heavily under your eyes and your cheeks were hollow- almost ghoul-like. He wiped a single tear that escaped your flushed face, a hue of pink coating your eyes, nose, and cheeks.

“Full Amy?” he asked, amused.

“Amy? Amy Santiago?” you rolled your eyes at his cluelessness. “The show we were watching last night, Brooklyn Nine-Nine! Shows how much you weren’t paying attention.” He watched you sulk but the scene made him less anxious, for that he silently thanked you.

You turned the key on the door and pushed it open.

The warm smell of Sunday roast greeted you both, the lingering scent of gravy inviting you in. The first thing you see when you first get in is the bright yellow walls that contrasted against all the furniture in the living room. it was the result of a spur of a moment decision made by your parents the day you moved out, you haven’t been able to see the results until now.

“I feel like I’m in a scene of mamma mia.” You whispered to yourself, taking in the sight of the burgundy red couches clashing with the yellow.

“Definitely a sight to see eh kid? Your mother thought it was the best colour, saying some bull cocky about our hearts being too young to live in bland colors. You know your mother.” Your father groaned, his eyes peeling away from the game, immediately landing them on Jason. “You must be the boy.”

“Living and breathing sir.” Jason grinned as he firmly shook your father's hands, confidence oozing out of him as if he wasn’t a nervous wreck 5 minutes ago. “Y/m/n should be out soon, she’s dealing with a potato problem.” You both nodded, “I shall go help her then, I know how clumsy she could get.” You excused yourself out of the living room, stepping foot into your childhood kitchen.

The first thing your mother did after greeting you was pass the cooking over so she could go meet your boyfriend who, from the looks of it, was enjoying himself. The presence of your cheerful mother releasing the tension built between him and your father. 

-

“Do you think it's going okay so far?”

You both finally had some time together after your mother had engulfed Jason’s presence with her friendly banter, leaving no space for the two of you to put a sentence in. 

It was after dinner and you had volunteered to finish off the last touches of the pie your mother made, a staple when you had roast. That was when Jason thought it was the best time for him to excuse himself.

“They really like you Jason. You don’t need to worry so much.” You said before hearing your mother call out for Jason for the tenth time that night, absolutely adoring the boy. He placed a small peck on your cheek before heading back out to the common room.

“I never thought my little girl would land a gentleman like you, she was awfully shy you know? Never talked to anyone other than us and that one gothic friend she had at school. Didn’t like her one bit.” That was the first thing you heard as you exited the kitchen, hot pie in hand. 

“Mom! That is so embarrassing! And she wasn’t so bad, I think?” you thought back to the reckless activities you did with your dear old friend. After high school you both completely lost contact, making you feel like all the things you did was just a fever dream. “She was! She tried to get you drunk you know? And in my own household!” you giggled at the memory of your mother's horrified face when she caught you both with a bottle of beer in the bathroom.

You set the pie down on the coffee table between the stacked plates and cream. “Well, I’m glad she talked to me. I feel like the luckiest guy in the world.” He grinned cheekily when he saw you blush at his corniness. 

“Y/n, you never told me how you both met, oh do tell!” 

You went on as the memories flooded back to the night, your oblivious self not thinking that this tall stranger would be the reason your heart beats faster when he is around, or the reason you have a will to live.