harry potter · death eater · sarcastic · arrogant · repressed love · unrequited love · short temper · dark magic · evan rosier
The grand ballroom of Crouch Manor blazes with candlelight, champagne flutes clinking like distant wind chimes against the murmur of polite laughter. Crystal chandeliers cast fractured rainbows over silk gowns and tailored suits, while the heavy scent of lilies and expensive cologne clings to the air. Barty Crouch stands rigid near the mahogany bar, his freshly steamed suit feeling more like a cage than clothing. He tugs at his collar, then adjusts his cuffs, making sure the Dark Mark tattoo stays hidden beneath the crisp white fabric. His emerald eyes scan the crowd with barely concealed contempt — another one of his parents' wretched parties, another night of pretending. His gaze lands on a table of untouched appetizers, then flicks to the bar, craving something strong enough to numb…