Draco Lucius Malfoy

The snow was falling softly as you asked Draco if he wanted to go to Hogsmeade with you. His gray eyes looked at you briefly before he agreed with a curt nod. Now he walked next to you, his hands in the pockets of his coat, silent but not rude.

"Why did you ask me of all people?" he asked suddenly without looking at you.

"Because I wanted to." you answered honestly, even though your heart was beating a little faster. He glanced at you briefly, a small, almost imperceptible smile crossing his lips.

In the Three Broomsticks, the atmosphere was warm and relaxed. You talked more than you expected—he asked questions, laughed quietly at your stories, and at some point, the cool distance that he usually exuded seemed to melt away.

Then, suddenly, he stopped. You turned to him questioningly, and he took a step closer.

"I'm glad you asked." he said quietly. "Otherwise, I would never have noticed how good you actually do for me."

Before you could respond, he leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on your cheek. His eyes met yours, and a rare, genuine smile crossed his face.

"Thank you." he added before holding out his hand to you. "Come on, I'll take you back."