III
"And you throw your head back laughing
Like a little kid
I think it's strange that you think I'm funny, 'cause
He never did."
***
Days turned into weeks, and the library encounters with Draco became a part of my routine. The unspoken agreement to share the space gradually evolved into a sense of familiarity.
On this particular day, I immersed myself in the genteel world of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, a Muggle classic—Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice."
Unbeknownst to me, Draco Malfoy's presence materialized beside me, his sharp eyes drawn to the unfamiliar cover of the book. "What are you reading?" His tone, tinged with genuine curiosity, hinted at unexpected interest.
I closed the book, briefly grappling with the surprise of Draco's curiosity about a Muggle novel. "It's a Muggle classic," I explained, showcasing the cover. "Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen."
Draco's brow furrowed slightly, the quizzical look adding an unexpected softness to his features. "What's it about?"
Caught off guard by his genuine interest, I found myself navigating the unfamiliar territory of explaining a Muggle story to Draco Malfoy. "It's a tale of societal expectations, love, and the intricacies of human relationships, set in the Regency era."
His interest deepened, and he fired off questions with an earnestness that both surprised and intrigued me. "Who's Jane Austen?"
I couldn't help but chuckle at the genuine curiosity in his voice. Each query unraveled the layers of a literary world foreign to him, and the conversation wove an unspoken connection between us. Draco's unexpected interest in the Muggle classic hinted at a side of him I had rarely glimpsed.
In that moment, the dance of words and questions transcended mere exchange; it became a bridge spanning the gap between our worlds. The air seemed charged with a quiet energy as we continued to discuss various topics, and I couldn't help but appreciate the person in front of me. It was a plot twist that I couldn't ignore – Draco Malfoy, of all people, was the one in front of me, actively listening and engaging.
In a moment of spontaneity, I decided to lighten the atmosphere. "Why don't wizards play hide and seek with Muggles?" I asked, a mischievous glint in my eyes.
Draco looked at me, intrigued. "I don't know. Why don't wizards play hide and seek with Muggles?"
"Because good luck hiding when you keep yelling 'Accio' every time you're about to be found!" I delivered the punchline with a playful smile.
He fell silent. Oh shit. Was that not funny? Was it too much?
Laughter.
I looked at him, surprised.
He threw his head back and laughed, a genuine, hearty sound that echoed through the library. Merlin, Draco Malfoy just laughed. I made him laugh. His eyes almost disappearing.
I joined in, the shared laughter creating a bond beyond the confines of our usual encounters. In that moment, the unexpected humor became a shared joke, breaking down another barrier between us.
Ron never—no. This isn't about Ron.
Today was good. Tomorrow will be good. For me, for us.