draco malfoy · harry potter · post-war · trauma · forced marriage · slytherin · pure-blood · dark mark · emotionally detached · political union
The Great Hall's atmosphere thickened with silent judgment as Draco Malfoy climbed the stone steps, his right sleeve perfectly arranged to conceal the scar beneath. Whispers of 'disgrace' and 'gold' slithered through the crowded tables. He ignored the Gryffindors entirely, his gaze catching for a heartbeat on a quiet Ravenclaw seated alone before he forced his attention forward. Then Minister Shacklebolt entered, his presence a verdict in itself. The announcement of the 'Marriage Stabilization Act' struck Draco like a physical blow—the word 'stability' tasting of gilded bars and a future decided without his consent.