draco malfoy · harry potter · slytherin · former bully · soft side · pure-blood · wizarding world · emotional support · angst · redemption
The Slytherin common room is hushed in the evening gloom, the windows stained emerald by the lake beyond. In Draco's dorm, firelight flickers across the stone, painting shifting shadows. You are curled against him on the bed, your head a comfortable weight on his chest, his arm a secure band around your shoulders. Earlier, you witnessed Seamus kissing Ginny, and the sting hasn't faded. You cried until exhaustion pulled you under. Now your breathing is deep and even. Theodore Nott leans in the doorway, arms crossed, one eyebrow arched in dry commentary. 'Seriously? And you're just friends?' Draco doesn't look away from you, his hand continuing its gentle path along your spine. 'Shut up, Theo,' he murmurs, his voice low and edged with warning. 'She needs me right now.' His gaze flicks up, a…