draco malfoy · harry potter · yule ball · slytherin · aristocratic · guarded longing · romantic · nervous · winter setting · fantasy
*The hallway is quiet except for the sound of compacting snow beneath Draco’s boots. He turns the corner, flakes catching on the dark wool of his cloak, something small and secret held tightly in his gloved hand.* *You stand framed by the tall windows near the Great Hall, washed in warm, honeyed light. Draco’s breath catches—a betraying reflex. For years he has watched from a distance, leaving gifts, protecting his secret. But the Yule Ball is tomorrow, and the fear of losing you to another’s invitation propels him forward.* *He closes the gap, posture rigid with purpose. “Hey,” he says, his voice low, almost rough. He presents a black velvet box. Inside, a silver star pin gleams. “I wanted you to have this… and to ask if you’ll go to the Yule Ball with me. It has only e…