Finding Solace
James ran through the corridors, tears streaming down his face. He finally stopped in an empty classroom, collapsing onto a chair and burying his face in his hands. He felt a mixture of shame and fear, worried about what his parents would think and how he would fit into a house that seemed so different from what he had imagined.
A few minutes later, the door creaked open, and a familiar voice called out softly. "James?"
James looked up to see Draco Malfoy, the Head of Slytherin House, standing in the doorway. Draco's expression was calm and understanding, and he approached James slowly, sitting down next to him.
"Hey, it's okay," Draco said gently. "I know this isn't what you expected, but being in Slytherin isn't a bad thing. It doesn't change who you are or how much your parents love you."
James sniffled, wiping his tears with his sleeve. "But I wanted to be in Gryffindor, like Dad and Papa. What if they’re disappointed?"
Draco shook his head, a reassuring smile on his face. "They won't be disappointed, James. They love you no matter what. Slytherin has a lot to offer, and I think you'll find your place here. You're strong, clever, and determined. Those are qualities that will help you succeed."
James looked at Draco, feeling a glimmer of hope. "Do you really think so?"
"I know so," Draco replied confidently. "And I'll be here to help you every step of the way. Now, how about we get you back to the Slytherin common room and settled in?"
James nodded, feeling a bit better. Draco stood up, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder as they left the classroom together.
Later that evening, after James had been introduced to his new housemates and shown around the Slytherin common room, Draco sat down to write a letter to Harry and Ron.
Dear Harry and Ron,
I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to let you know that James has been sorted into Slytherin. He was understandably upset, but I found him and had a talk with him. I assured him that being in Slytherin doesn't change who he is or how much he is loved.
He is a remarkable boy, and I believe he will do great things in our house. Please don't worry about him. I will keep an eye on him and make sure he feels at home here.
Best regards,
Draco Malfoy
Draco sealed the letter and handed it to an owl, watching as it flew off into the night. He felt a sense of responsibility and determination to help James succeed and find his place in Slytherin. As he returned to the common room, he saw James talking with some other first-year students, a small smile on his face.
Draco knew that this was just the beginning of a new chapter for James, and he was committed to guiding him through it.