Chapter 28- The Deleacour Ball
Hadrian stood before the mirror, his reflection showing a young man dressed in sharp, tailored robes that exuded a sense of maturity beyond his twelve years. The dark green fabric of his robes highlighted his striking features, and a silver clasp in the shape of a serpent rested on his shoulder. He adjusted the collar, his fingers trembling slightly, not from nerves but from excitement. Tonight was the Delacour Manor annual ball, and he would be attending with Sirius and Tonks.
He couldn't help the flutter of anticipation in his chest. Tonks, who had taken a keen interest in staying closer to him, would be there too. The thought of seeing her again, especially in such a grand setting, sent a warm flush to his cheeks. He imagined her smiling at him, her playful teasing, and the way her laughter seemed to brighten even the darkest corners of Grimmauld Place.
A soft knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. "Hadrian, are you ready?" Tonks's voice called from the hallway.
Hadrian took a deep breath, smoothed down his robes one last time, and opened the door. His breath caught in his throat. Tonks stood there, her metamorphmagus abilities on full display as her hair cascaded in soft waves, a deep shade of violet that contrasted beautifully with her pale skin. She wore a gown of deep indigo that hugged her curves in all the right places, her hourglass figure accentuated by the tight bodice and flowing skirt. Her breasts pressed tightly against the dress, making the scene mesmerising. She hugged Hadrian and Hadrian felt his breath disappear as his face was pressed against her big boobs. Her thighs and ass ground against Hadrian's crotch. Hadrian felt himself hardening as his manhood pressed against her thighs. Her hands teasingly grazed his crotch, making him double over.
She pulled back, revelling in the effect she had on Hadrian.
"Blimey," Hadrian muttered, his face heating up as he quickly looked away, but not before he saw the knowing smirk on her lips.
"Well, don't you clean up nice, Hadrian," Tonks teased,as if nothing had happened, casually reaching out to adjust his collar. Her fingers brushed against his neck, and he swore he felt a spark, a tingling sensation that sent shivers down his spine.
Hadrian managed a small smile, his heart thudding in his chest. "You look... amazing, Tonks."
She chuckled, patting his cheek lightly. "Flattery will get you everywhere, love."Before Hadrian could respond, Sirius appeared at the end of the hallway, grinning like a Cheshire cat. "Well, don't you two look like quite the pair?" he said, his voice full of approval. Sirius himself was dressed in formal robes of deep black, lined with silver that shimmered in the light. He looked every bit the charming, roguish figure that the Black family was known for, but there was a warmth in his eyes as he looked at Hadrian and Tonks.
"Ready for a night of fun, dancing, and maybe some mischief?" Sirius asked, his grin widening.Hadrian nodded, his excitement growing. "As ready as I'll ever be."
"Good," Sirius said, clapping him on the back. "Because we're about to take an international Portkey, and trust me, you don't want to be unprepared for that."
The three of them made their way downstairs to the living room, where a small, ornate box awaited them. Sirius picked it up, holding it out for Hadrian and Tonks to touch."On three," he said, his voice suddenly serious. "One... two... three."
The familiar tug behind Hadrian's navel signaled the start of the Portkey's journey, and the world around them blurred into a whirlwind of colors and sensations.
When they landed, slightly off-balance, they found themselves standing in front of a grand estate. The Delacour Manor was a sprawling, elegant structure with towering spires, intricate stonework, and lush gardens that seemed to stretch on forever. The air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the soft hum of magic that seemed to resonate from the very stones of the manor.
Hadrian took a moment to take it all in, his eyes wide with awe. The manor was unlike anything he had ever seen, even in the wizarding world. The guests were dressed in the finest robes, their laughter and chatter filling the air as they mingled in the grand courtyard. The atmosphere was one of opulence and refinement, but there was an underlying warmth that made it feel welcoming rather than intimidating.
"Welcome to the Delacour Manor," Sirius said, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "It's been some time since I've been here, but it looks just as magnificent as I remember."
They made their way through the courtyard, receiving polite nods and curious glances from the other guests. Hadrian's heart pounded in his chest, not from nerves but from the sheer excitement of being in such a place. He felt a sense of belonging here, among the wizards and witches who were as much a part of this world as he was.
As they entered the ballroom, Hadrian's eyes were immediately drawn to the grandeur of the room. The ceiling was enchanted to resemble a starry night sky, with twinkling lights that seemed to dance in time with the music playing softly in the background. The walls were lined with tapestries depicting scenes of magical history, and the floor was polished to a mirror-like shine.
It was then that he spotted Daphne Greengrass standing near one of the large windows, looking out at the gardens beyond. She was dressed in a flowing gown of emerald green that complemented her blonde hair and icy blue eyes. Her figure was statuesque, with an hourglass shape that was impossible not to notice. Her tight dress emphasized her huge breasts and bottom, calling the attention of many people present over there. Hadrian felt his breath hitch in his throat as he made his way over to her.
"Daphne," he greeted, his voice slightly strained as he tried to maintain his composure.She turned to face him, a small smile playing on her lips. "Hadrian," she replied, her tone cool and composed. "It's good to see you."
"You look... stunning," Hadrian said, his voice barely above a whisper.Daphne's smile widened slightly, and she inclined her head in acknowledgment. "Thank you. You don't look too bad yourself."
Before Hadrian could respond, the music shifted to a slower, more intimate tune, and he found himself offering his hand to Daphne. "May I have this dance?"
Daphne hesitated for only a moment before placing her hand in his. "I'd be honored."
They moved to the center of the ballroom, joining the other couples already dancing. As they swayed to the music, Hadrian couldn't help but feel the eyes of the other guests on them. He could see the jealous looks from some of the other boys and the curious glances from the girls. But he didn't care. All that mattered in that moment was the way Daphne's hand felt in his, the way her body moved in time with his, and the way her icy blue eyes held his gaze.
As the song came to an end, Hadrian reluctantly released Daphne's hand, only to be immediately claimed by Tonks for the next dance. Her mischievous grin was infectious, and Hadrian found himself smiling despite the heat in his cheeks.
"You two looked good together," Tonks teased as they began to dance.Hadrian shrugged, trying to play it cool. "She's my girlfriend too."
"Sure she is," Tonks said with a wink. "And I saw the way you were looking at her."Hadrian was saved from responding by the arrival of Sirius, who had been watching from the sidelines with a mixture of amusement and pride. "Hadrian, my boy," Sirius called out as he approached, "you're making quite the impression tonight."
Hadrian grinned, feeling a swell of pride at Sirius's words. "Just trying to enjoy myself.""You're doing a fine job of it," Sirius said with a chuckle. "But don't forget to save a dance for me, Tonks."
Tonks laughed, her eyes twinkling with mirth. "Wouldn't dream of it, Sirius."As the night wore on, Hadrian found himself dancing with both Daphne and Tonks several more times, each dance more enjoyable than the last. But it was during one of these dances that he saw her.
Fleur Delacour, a vision of ethereal beauty, was gliding across the ballroom with an air of grace and elegance that seemed almost otherworldly. She was dressed in a gown of pale blue that shimmered like the surface of a calm lake, her long blonde hair cascading down her back in soft waves. Her eyes, a piercing shade of blue, seemed to glow with an inner light as they locked onto his.
Hadrian felt his mouth go dry as Fleur approached him, her every movement radiating confidence and a hint of something more—something almost dangerous. She was only thirteen, but there was an undeniable maturity in her presence, a hint of the Veela allure that was beginning to manifest. He was lost for words as she drew near. Her breasts seemed to burst out from beneath her dress, her hourglass figure visible as her thin waist blossomed into huge hips, thick thighs, and a big ass
"Bonsoir, Hadrian," Fleur greeted him, her voice carrying the soft lilt of her French accent.Hadrian swallowed, trying to find his voice. "Fleur... you look... incredible."
Fleur's lips curved into a smile, and she stepped closer, her body brushing against his as she did. "Merci. You are very kind."
The touch of her hand as she took his sent a jolt of electricity through Hadrian's body, making his heart race. He felt a warmth spread through him, a tingling sensation that started at the point where their skin met and radiated outward. Fleur's gaze was intense, her eyes holding his with a mix of curiosity and something else—something that made Hadrian feel both excited and slightly nervous.
"Would you like to dance?" Fleur asked, her tone almost playful.
Hadrian nodded, unable to form words as he led her to the dance floor. The music had shifted to a slow, romantic tune, and as they began to move in time with the melody, Hadrian became acutely aware of every point of contact between them.
Fleur's body was close to his, her warmth seeping through the fabric of her gown and his robes. Her hands rested lightly on his shoulders, her fingers occasionally brushing against the back of his neck, sending shivers down his spine.
Hadrian could feel his heart pounding in his chest, the rhythm of it almost in sync with the music that surrounded them. Fleur's presence was overwhelming, her beauty and the subtle allure of her Veela heritage creating a magnetic pull that he found impossible to resist. She moved with a grace that seemed effortless, her every step measured and fluid, as though she was born to dance.
Fleur's eyes never left his, the intensity of her gaze making it difficult for Hadrian to think clearly. He felt a warmth creeping up his neck, his face flushing as he realized just how close they were. Her breath was warm against his cheek, her scent—something sweet and intoxicating—enveloping him, making it hard to focus on anything but her.
"Hadrian," Fleur's voice was soft, almost a whisper, as she leaned in slightly, her lips just inches from his ear. "You are a very good dancer."
Hadrian swallowed hard, his throat suddenly dry. "T-Thank you," he managed to stammer, his voice betraying the nervousness he felt. He tried to maintain his composure, but the way Fleur was looking at him, the way her body seemed to mold perfectly against his, was making it increasingly difficult.
Fleur smiled, a small, almost knowing smile, as if she could sense the effect she was having on him. She pulled back just enough to look him in the eyes, her expression softening. "It is a pleasure to dance with you, Hadrian," she said, her tone genuine.
"The pleasure is mine," Hadrian replied, his voice a little steadier now, though his heart continued to race.
As the dance continued, Hadrian became more attuned to the subtle shifts in Fleur's demeanor. There was a moment where her gaze flickered, a brief hint of vulnerability that she quickly masked with a confident smile. It was almost imperceptible, but Hadrian caught it—a sign that there was more to her than the flawless beauty and grace she exuded. There was depth, a complexity that made her all the more intriguing.
When the song finally came to an end, Hadrian was reluctant to let go of her. Fleur, too, seemed to hesitate for a fraction of a second before she released him, her fingers lingering on his for just a moment longer than necessary. There was a faint flush on her cheeks, a subtle sign that she had enjoyed the dance just as much as he had.
"Merci, Hadrian," Fleur said, her voice warm and sincere. "That was... lovely.""Anytime," Hadrian replied, trying to keep his tone casual even as his mind raced with the realization that he had just danced with Fleur Delacour, a girl who was not only stunningly beautiful but also carried the aura of a Veela.
Before either of them could say anything more, Daphne and Tonks appeared at Hadrian's side, both of them wearing matching smirks. Tonks was the first to speak, her tone teasing. "Well, well, well, looks like someone's got a new admirer."
Hadrian shot her a look, his face reddening slightly. "It's not like that.""Sure it's not," Tonks said with a wink, clearly enjoying his discomfort.
Daphne, on the other hand, remained silent, her icy blue eyes fixed on Fleur. There was a moment of silent communication between the two girls, something unspoken passing between them. It was subtle, but Hadrian noticed the way Daphne's posture stiffened slightly, the way her lips pressed together in a tight line before she forced a smile.
Fleur seemed to pick up on it as well, her expression softening as she nodded politely to Daphne and Tonks. "It was a pleasure to meet you both," she said, her French accent lilting as she spoke. "I hope we can talk more later."
With that, Fleur turned and walked away, her movements as graceful as ever, though Hadrian couldn't help but notice the slight sway in her hips as she departed. He wasn't the only one watching her go—several of the boys nearby had their eyes glued to her retreating figure, their expressions a mix of admiration and envy.
As soon as Fleur was out of earshot, Tonks let out a low whistle. "Merlin's beard, Hadrian, you really know how to pick them, don't you?"
"Pick them?" Hadrian echoed, confused.
Tonks nudged him playfully. "Fleur Delacour, Daphne Greengrass, and me? That's quite the trio you've got your eye on."
Hadrian opened his mouth to protest, but the words caught in his throat. He couldn't deny the fluttering in his chest when he thought of Fleur, nor could he ignore the connection he felt with Daphne and Tonks. The realization hit him like a ton of bricks—he was developing feelings for all three of them.
Daphne, sensing his internal turmoil, reached out and gently touched his arm, her expression softening. "It's okay, Hadrian. We're just teasing you. But... you should know that whatever happens, we're here for you."
Hadrian looked at her, gratitude and confusion warring within him. "Thanks, Daphne."Tonks, ever the perceptive one, noticed the way Daphne's hand lingered on Hadrian's arm and the slight shift in her expression when she spoke. Her smirk grew, but she chose to stay silent, filing the information away for later.
The rest of the evening passed in a blur of music, dancing, and socializing. Hadrian found himself mingling with various guests, many of whom were intrigued by the young man who had arrived with Sirius Black and was now the center of attention. There were offers of future alliances, discussions of magical theory, and even a few veiled compliments that hinted at the interest some of the older witches had in him.
But despite all the attention, Hadrian's mind kept drifting back to Fleur. There was something about her that had left a lasting impression on him, something he couldn't quite put into words. And he wasn't the only one who noticed.
As he danced with Daphne and Tonks again, he caught sight of Fleur standing by the refreshment table, her eyes following him as he moved. There was a look in her eyes—one of longing, but also of something more. She seemed almost... wistful, as if she wished she could join them but was held back by something.
The dance ended, and Hadrian excused himself from Daphne and Tonks, making his way over to Fleur. She noticed his approach and straightened, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
"Hadrian," she greeted him, her voice soft. "Are you enjoying the ball?""I am," Hadrian replied, his heart racing once more. "But... I noticed you were standing here alone. Would you like to dance again?"
Fleur's smile widened, and she stepped closer, her eyes locking onto his with that same intensity that had captivated him earlier. "I would like that very much."
Before they could take to the dance floor, however, Hadrian noticed a figure approaching from the corner of his eye. It was a boy, slightly older than Hadrian, with a flabby build and an expression of disdain etched across his features. He was dressed in fine robes, clearly expensive, but they did little to hide his rough demeanor.
The boy's gaze flicked from Fleur to Hadrian, his eyes narrowing as he took in the sight of Hadrian with not just Fleur, but also Daphne and Tonks earlier. There was a sneer on his lips, a look of disbelief that someone like Hadrian could be in the company of three such beautiful girls.
Hadrian met the boy's gaze, his expression hardening as he instinctively moved closer to Fleur, his protective instincts kicking in. He could feel the tension in the air, the unspoken challenge between them.
Fleur, sensing the shift in mood, placed a hand on Hadrian's arm, her touch calming him slightly. "Ignore him," she whispered, her voice soothing. "He is not worth your attention."
But as the boy continued to approach, his sneer growing more pronounced, Hadrian knew that this encounter was far from over. He could feel the weight of the boy's gaze, the jealousy and resentment radiating from him. The boy was used to getting what he wanted, used to having the attention of girls like Fleur, and the sight of Hadrian with her was clearly a blow to his ego.Hadrian stood his ground, his jaw set as he prepared for whatever was to come next. The night had taken an unexpected turn, and as the boy stopped just a few feet away, Hadrian could sense that this was just the beginning of a new challenge.
Fleur's grip on Hadrian's arm tightened slightly, a silent show of support as the situation hung in the balance.The stakes had just been raised, and Hadrian knew that this encounter would be one he wouldn't soon forget.
Sirius Black had seen many things in his lifetime—dangerous duels, perilous missions, and the kind of wild parties that only the most reckless of wizards would dare to attend. But none of those experiences prepared him for the sight of his godson, Hadrian Potter, surrounded by three of the most beautiful witches in the room.
As Hadrian returned to Sirius after his dance with Fleur Delacour, Sirius raised an eyebrow, his expression a mixture of surprise and amusement. "Well, well, well," Sirius drawled, a teasing grin spreading across his face. "It seems my godson has been keeping interesting company. First Daphne, now Tonks and Fleur? I must say, Hadrian, you've got quite the taste."
Hadrian's face reddened instantly, his usual composure faltering under Sirius's knowing gaze. "It's not like that, Sirius," he stammered, though the blush creeping up his neck suggested otherwise.
"Of course it's not," Sirius said, smirking as he gave Hadrian a playful nudge. "But just so you know, I remember the train ride. And if memory serves, you and Daphne seemed quite cozy back then too. So, what's the story here?"
Hadrian tried to find the right words, but his mind was still reeling from the closeness of Fleur and the teasing smiles from Tonks and Daphne. "It's... complicated," he finally managed, feeling the heat in his cheeks intensify.
Sirius chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Ah, the classic 'it's complicated.' Don't worry, Hadrian, I won't pry—too much. But you might want to prepare yourself. Those three are all headstrong, and from what I can see, they're quite taken with you."Hadrian sighed, running a hand through his hair in an attempt to compose himself. "Thanks for the advice, Sirius."
"Anytime, kid," Sirius replied with a wink. "But do me a favor—try to have some fun. You're at a ball, after all, not a strategic meeting with the Wizengamot."
Hadrian nodded, managing a small smile. "I'll try."
With that, Sirius gave him a pat on the back and wandered off to mingle with some of the other guests, leaving Hadrian to collect his thoughts.
He glanced around the grand ballroom, taking in the luxurious surroundings and the elegantly dressed witches and wizards who filled the space. The grandeur of the event was undeniable, but Hadrian couldn't shake a sense of discomfort, a nagging feeling that not everyone here was as welcoming as they seemed.
As he walked through the crowd, he found himself making small talk with various guests. He exchanged pleasantries with a few older wizards who were clearly interested in his connection to the Black family. One witch, adorned in a lavish gown that sparkled in the candlelight, commented on his resemblance to his father, James Potter.
Hadrian forced a polite smile, but inwardly, he felt a pang of irritation. The mention of his father always stirred complicated emotions within him—resentment, bitterness, and a longing for the family he never truly had.
His thoughts drifted to the Notts, the Blacks, and the Zabinis—families he had grown close to, yet they were noticeably absent from this gathering. Hadrian knew why, of course. The Delacours, with their reputation as a prestigious and light-aligned family, would never have invited those considered "dark." Even Sirius, who had once been branded as a traitor to his own family, had only been allowed because of Sébastien Delacour's personal respect for him.
Hadrian sighed inwardly. It was a shame, really. He would have liked for Theo, Blaise, and the others to be here, to share in the experience of such a grand event. But it seemed that the lines drawn by blood and reputation were not so easily erased.
As Hadrian mulled over these thoughts, he was suddenly aware of a presence beside him. He turned to see Daphne, her blonde hair cascading over her shoulders, her icy blue eyes watching him with a knowing look. "Care to take a walk, Hadrian?" she asked, her tone casual but her eyes gleaming with something more.
Hadrian hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Sure."Daphne smiled, and together they moved towards the edge of the ballroom. As they reached the doors leading out to the gardens, they were joined by Tonks and Fleur, both of whom had a certain glint in their eyes. Tonks, ever the playful one, nudged Hadrian with her elbow. "You're not getting away from us that easily, Potter."
Hadrian chuckled nervously. "Wouldn't dream of it."The four of them slipped out into the night, the cool air of the gardens a welcome contrast to the warmth of the ballroom. The Delacour gardens were nothing short of breathtaking—a sprawling expanse of meticulously maintained flora, illuminated by the soft glow of moonlight. The paths were lined with blooming roses, their petals glistening with dew, and ancient trees stood tall, their branches draped in delicate vines that swayed gently in the breeze.
The scent of jasmine and lavender filled the air, mingling with the earthy aroma of the garden's rich soil. The moon hung high above, casting a silver light that bathed the entire scene in an ethereal glow. It was the kind of place that felt otherworldly, as if it existed in a realm of its own, far removed from the worries and politics of the wizarding world.
Hadrian couldn't help but admire the beauty of the surroundings, but his attention was quickly drawn back to the three witches who had led him out here. Fleur, Tonks, and Daphne stood close, their gazes fixed on him, and in the moonlight, they seemed even more stunning than before.
Fleur's silvery hair caught the light, making her look like a goddess descended from the stars. Her eyes, a deep blue that mirrored the sky above, sparkled with a mixture of mischief and something else—something that sent a shiver down Hadrian's spine. The way she moved was almost hypnotic, her curves accentuated by the flowing gown that clung to her figure in all the right places.
Tonks, with her vibrant pink hair and mischievous grin, had a different kind of allure. Her eyes twinkled with a playful energy, but there was an underlying confidence in her demeanor that was hard to ignore. The way she carried herself, the sway of her hips as she walked, and the way her body seemed to fit perfectly against his when she was close—it all made Hadrian's heart race in a way that left him breathless.
And then there was Daphne, her beauty as cold and sharp as the winter's first frost. Her blonde hair gleamed in the moonlight, and her icy blue eyes were like windows to a soul that was both mysterious and captivating. She had a grace to her movements, a fluidity that was almost feline, and the way her dress hugged her form left little to the imagination. Hadrian could feel the warmth radiating from her as she stood next to him, her presence both comforting and intoxicating.
The three of them formed a circle around Hadrian, their expressions playful yet intense. It was clear that they had something in mind, something that involved him, and as he looked from one to the other, he couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness."Hadrian," Fleur began, her voice soft and melodic, "we thought it might be nice to have a more... private dance. Away from all the prying eyes inside."
Hadrian swallowed, his mouth suddenly dry. "A private dance?"
Tonks grinned, stepping closer until her body was nearly pressed against his. "Yes, a private dance. Just the four of us, here in the garden."
Hadrian could feel his heart pounding in his chest, the proximity of the three witches overwhelming his senses. The scent of their perfume, the warmth of their bodies, the way their eyes seemed to see right through him—it was all too much, and yet not enough.
Before he could respond, Fleur took his hand, her fingers cool and soft against his skin. She led him to a small clearing in the garden, where the moonlight filtered through the leaves, casting a silvery glow over the scene. The other two followed, and soon they were all standing close together, the night air filled with the sound of their breaths and the rustle of leaves.
Without a word, they began to dance. It was slow and gentle, their movements in perfect harmony with each other, and Hadrian found himself lost in the sensation of it all. The feel of Fleur's hand in his, the brush of Daphne's body against his side, the warmth of Tonks's breath on his neck—it was all intoxicating, a heady mix of emotions that left him dizzy.
Fleur was the first to lean in, her lips brushing against Hadrian's ear as she whispered something in French, the words a sultry caress that sent a shiver down his spine. He couldn't understand what she said, but the tone was enough to make his knees weak.
Tonks wasn't far behind, her breath hot against his other ear as she teased him with playful words, her tone laced with flirtation. Daphne, true to her nature, remained silent, but the way she looked at him, the way her eyes seemed to burn with an icy fire, spoke volumes.As they danced, the closeness of their bodies became more apparent. Fleur's hand trailed down his arm, her touch light but electric, while Tonks's fingers brushed against the back of his neck, sending sparks of sensation down his spine.
Daphne, ever the enigma, pressed herself against him, her body a soft yet unyielding presence that made his heart race.
Hadrian was acutely aware of their curves, the way their dresses clung to their forms, accentuating every line and contour. Fleur's hips swayed with a grace that was almost otherworldly, her gown shimmering with each movement. Tonks's figure was more athletic, her curves subtle yet undeniably alluring, while Daphne's body was a study in contrasts—sharp angles softened by the fabric of her dress, a combination of strength and fragility that left Hadrian entranced.
It wasn't long before the teasing became more than just words. Tonks, ever the bold one, was the first to act, her lips brushing against Hadrian's in a kiss that was both playful and demanding. Daphne followed suit, her kiss more restrained but no less intense, her cold lips sending a shock of sensation through Hadrian's body.
They led him to a nearby bench, where they sat, their eyes still fixed on him with that same intense focus. Fleur moved closer, her body brushing against his as she took a seat beside him. Daphne, with a smirk that could only be described as mischievous, slid onto his lap, her weight both comforting and exhilarating.
Hadrian was flushed, his mind a whirlwind of emotions. The feel of Daphne on his lap, the scent of Fleur's perfume, the warmth of Tonks's body pressed against his—it was all too much, and yet he craved more. His heart pounded in his chest, his breath coming in short gasps as he tried to process everything that was happening.
Fleur was the first to speak, her voice soft and full of emotion. "Hadrian, I... I have something I need to tell you."Hadrian turned to her, his eyes searching hers for any hint of what was to come. "What is it, Fleur?"
Fleur hesitated, her gaze flickering to Daphne and Tonks before settling back on Hadrian. "I... I think I might have feelings for you. More than just friendship."
The words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. Hadrian felt a surge of emotions—surprise, confusion, and something else, something warm and thrilling that made his heart skip a beat.Daphne and Tonks exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of mild annoyance and amusement. "Well," Tonks said with a smirk, "I can't say I didn't see that coming."
Daphne, ever the composed one, merely sighed. "I suppose we'll just have to share, then."Hadrian blinked, struggling to comprehend what was happening. "Share?""Don't worry, Hadrian," Fleur said, her hand reaching out to touch his cheek, her fingers warm against his skin. "We'll make it work. I promise."
Before Hadrian could respond, Fleur leaned in and kissed him. It was different from the earlier kisses—this one was deeper, more intense, and filled with a passion that took Hadrian's breath away. Fleur's lips moved against his with a confidence that left him dizzy, her tongue slipping into his mouth in a way that was both demanding and exhilarating.
Hadrian could feel himself being drawn into the kiss, his senses overwhelmed by the sensation of it. Fleur's hands tangled in his hair, pulling him closer as she deepened the kiss, her body pressing against his in a way that left no room for doubt about her feelings.When they finally broke apart, both of them were breathing heavily, their eyes locked in a gaze that spoke of unspoken desires. Hadrian was about to say something, but the sound of footsteps approaching caught his attention.
He turned to see the same flabby, rough-looking boy from earlier making his way towards them, a sneer plastered across his face. The boy's eyes were filled with disdain as he looked at Hadrian, his lips curling into a mocking smile.
"Well, well, well," the boy said, his voice dripping with contempt. "Isn't this a cozy little scene? The great Hadrian Potter, surrounded by his harem of pretty witches."Hadrian narrowed his eyes, his earlier warmth replaced by a cold indifference. "What do you want?"
The boy's sneer widened. "Oh, nothing much. I just wanted to see the infamous Hadrian Potter up close. You know, the one who thinks he's so special because his younger brother survived a little curse when he was a baby."
Hadrian's jaw tightened, but he remained silent, refusing to rise to the bait. The boy's eyes gleamed with malicious glee as he continued. "But let's be honest, Potter. You're nothing more than a poor orphan, abandoned by your family and left to fend for yourself. Pathetic, really."
Hadrian felt a surge of anger, his body tensing as the boy's words hit their mark. He could feel the heat rising in his chest, his composure slipping as the boy's insults dug deeper. His fists clenched at his sides, his knuckles white with the effort of holding back the rage that threatened to consume him.
Fleur, sensing Hadrian's distress, placed a calming hand on his arm, her touch grounding him. "Ignore him, Hadrian. He's not worth it."
But the boy wasn't finished. "Oh, did I strike a nerve? How tragic. The great Hadrian Potter, reduced to nothing more than a charity case. I wonder how it feels, knowing that your own parents didn't want you."
How did the boy know?
That was the breaking point. Hadrian's body language shifted, his shoulders tensing and his eyes narrowing into cold slits. The air around him seemed to crackle with suppressed energy, a dangerous edge to his demeanor that hadn't been there before.
Without a word, Hadrian stepped forward, his movements controlled and deliberate. "You should leave," he said, his voice low and dangerous.The boy laughed, a harsh, grating sound that grated on Hadrian's nerves. "Or what? You'll hex me? I'd like to see you try, Potter."
Before Hadrian could respond, Tonks stepped forward, her wand drawn and a dangerous glint in her eyes. "I suggest you leave before things get ugly," she said, her voice laced with warning.Daphne, ever the cool and collected one, added, "You're outnumbered, and we're not in the mood for games. Leave. Now."
The boy's bravado faltered for a moment, but he quickly recovered, his sneer returning. "Fine. But this isn't over, Potter. Not by a long shot."
With that, he turned on his heel and stalked off, his shoulders stiff with anger. Hadrian watched him go, a mixture of emotions swirling within him—anger, frustration, and a sense of foreboding. He knew, deep down, that this encounter was far from over, and that he had just made a powerful enemy.
As the boy disappeared into the night, Hadrian felt the weight of his actions settle over him. He had been pushed to the brink, and though he had managed to hold his temper, the encounter had left a mark—a lingering sense of unease that refused to fade.
Fleur, Tonks, and Daphne turned to him, their expressions a mix of concern and support. Fleur was the first to speak, her voice soft and comforting. "Are you alright, Hadrian?"Hadrian nodded, though his thoughts were elsewhere. "I'm fine. Just... thinking.""Don't let him get to you," Tonks said, her tone firm. "He's just a spoiled brat with nothing better to do."
Daphne, added, "We'll deal with him if he causes any more trouble. You're not alone in this, Hadrian."
Hadrian managed a small smile, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Thanks. I appreciate it."The three witches exchanged glances, their concern for Hadrian clear. But they also knew that he needed time to process what had just happened, and so they didn't press him further.As the night wore on, the tension slowly ebbed away, replaced by a quiet sense of camaraderie. But as they returned to the ballroom, Hadrian couldn't shake the feeling that he had just made a very powerful and influential enemy—a realization that left him with a sense of unease that would linger long after the night had ended.
The moon hung high above, its silver light casting long shadows across the garden as Hadrian walked in silence, his mind racing with thoughts of what was to come. He knew that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges, but with Fleur, Tonks, and Daphne by his side, he felt a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness.
But even as he tried to focus on the positives, the memory of the boy's sneer and the venom in his words lingered in his mind, a reminder that not all battles were fought with wands and spells. Some were fought with words and manipulation, and in those battles, the stakes were often much higher.And so, as the night drew to a close, Hadrian resolved to be prepared—for whatever came next.