chapter 3: holding hands by @camilla-nyx ©️ The dim glow of the Slytherin common room fire flickered against the emerald and silver tapestries as the night settled around them. Camilla sat near the hearth, Draco beside her, neither speaking as they absorbed their new reality. Then—Professor Snape approached. His voice was measured, his presence commanding. "Walk with me." They exchanged a glance before standing, their movements perfectly composed, perfectly controlled. The corridor was eerily quiet as they followed him, their footsteps barely echoing against the cold stone floors. When they reached a secluded alcove, Snape turned to face them, arms folded. "Your families have made their expectations abundantly clear." His tone held no room for dispute. Draco sighed, already irritated. "We’re aware." Snape narrowed his eyes. "Not entirely. You will begin courting publicly. Effective immediately." Camilla’s posture remained flawless, but something inside her tightened. "Courting?" Snape’s gaze flickered between them. "You will be seen together, you will act accordingly, and you will not tarnish the reputations of the Nyx or Malfoy families." Draco let out a short laugh—humorless, tired. "Wonderful." Snape’s expression did not change. "Hold hands." Camilla blinked. "Excuse me?" "Now," Snape instructed. Draco sighed heavily before lifting his hand toward Camilla, fingers slightly tense. Camilla hesitated—not out of embarrassment, but out of principle. Still, she slid her hand into his. It was warm. Surprisingly warm. Snape observed them, unreadable. "This bond will one day result in heirs. You will continue the Nyx and Malfoy lines. It is expected. It is required." Camilla did not falter, but beneath her polished exterior, something sparked—a quiet rebellion, an unease that she refused to show. Draco’s grip on her hand tightened slightly—not forceful, but firm. Snape nodded, satisfied. "Ensure your relationship unfolds correctly." Then, just like that, he was gone. The hallway was too quiet. Camilla exhaled slowly, finally releasing Draco’s hand. Draco, still slightly pink in the ears, rubbed his palm against his robe as if shaking off the moment. Camilla sneezed quietly. “Excuse me.” Draco scoffed, turning toward the common room. "Come on. We’re officially a spectacle now." And just like that, the game had begun. eeek i love Draco when he’s angry
