Chapter 16
Pansy Parkinson observed the Slytherin common room from her favorite armchair. Over the past few weeks, Hermione had been spending an unusual amount of time with Astoria. What puzzled Pansy most was Draco's reaction—his utter lack of jealousy.
From her vantage point, Pansy watched as Hermione and Astoria huddled together, their heads bent in close conversation. Astoria's eyes sparkled with admiration, while Hermione wore an inscrutable, calculating expression.
Pansy decided to approach Draco. She found him lounging in a secluded corner of the common room, a book in hand. Sliding into the seat opposite him, she waited until he looked up.
"Draco, haven't you noticed how much time Hermione is spending with Astoria?" Pansy asked, her tone casual but probing.
Draco's eyes flickered with cold amusement. "Of course, I have. Why do you ask?"
"Doesn't it bother you? You’re usually so... possessive," Pansy pressed.
Draco closed his book and leaned back, a dark smirk playing on his lips. "Why should it? Hermione can have her fun. Besides, it's all part of a larger plan."
Pansy arched an eyebrow. "A plan?"
Draco's eyes darkened, his voice dripping with malice. "Hermione thinks she's using Astoria to create space for herself. What she doesn't realize is that she's becoming even more entangled with me. Astoria is just another piece on the board."
Pansy shivered at the ruthless calculation in Draco's voice. "And Astoria? Does she know she's a pawn in your game?"
Draco's smirk widened. "Astoria is infatuated with Hermione. She'll do anything to be close to her. And as long as Hermione believes she has some control, she'll stay right where I want her. Astoria’s devotion will bind Hermione tighter to me, ensuring she never escapes."
As Pansy left Draco, she cast another glance at Hermione and Astoria. The dynamics within Slytherin were shifting, and the game they were all playing was more dangerous than ever. Watching Hermione’s interactions with Astoria, Pansy wondered if Hermione had always been this cruel, or if Draco had shaped her into this calculating, cold strategist. The darkness in Draco's eyes promised that no one was safe from his machinations, and it seemed Hermione had become his perfect accomplice—or perhaps his creation