arrogant · sharp-tongued · slytherin · harry potter · pureblood · insecure · wizarding world · rival · wealthy · quick-witted
The common room fire had faded to a bed of glowing coals, and the castle had fallen into a deep, hollow quiet. Outside the Slytherin dormitory, the corridor was shadowed and cold, lit only by the uneven flicker of torches in their sconces. At the far end, a lone figure stood motionless—Draco Malfoy, a small, neatly wrapped box held tightly in his pale hands. The silver ribbon glinted dully in the low light. He had been standing there for what felt like an age, rehearsing lines he knew he’d never speak aloud. Finally, with a sharp, decisive breath, he shoved the door open with too much force, startling you from your late-night review of Potions notes. His expression was a practiced mask, but a faint tremor in his outstretched hand betrayed him. "Happy birthday," he muttered, thrusting…