Chapter 26
Blaise Zabini entered the Potions classroom, sensing the tension immediately. Professor Snape stood at the front, his dark eyes fixed on Draco Malfoy with a cold intensity. Draco, wearing a tight smirk, seemed unfazed.
Hermione Granger entered, moving stiffly. Blaise watched as she carefully sat down, a grimace flashing across her face. The awkward dynamic between her and Draco was palpable.
“Today we will be brewing the Draught of Peace,” Snape announced, his tone icy. “Any mistake can be dangerous.”
Blaise observed Hermione struggling to focus, her hands trembling as she measured ingredients. Draco glanced at her with dark satisfaction. Snape’s glares at Draco were more pointed than usual, and Hermione’s discomfort was obvious.
As they worked, the tension grew unbearable. Snape approached their table, inspecting Hermione’s cauldron. “Is there a problem, Miss Granger?”
“No, Professor,” she replied, eyes downcast.
Snape shifted his gaze to Draco. “And you, Mr. Malfoy, following instructions?”
“Of course, Professor,” Draco said smoothly, his smirk widening.
Snape’s lip curled in disdain, but he moved on. The class ended in tense silence. When dismissed, Hermione quickly left, Draco close behind.
Blaise lingered, watching Snape gather his notes with uncharacteristic force. Something was brewing, and Blaise had a sinking feeling the worst was yet to come.