Theodore NTT

Malfoy Manor. The entire group had been summoned without explanation. Draco, Mattheo, Regulus, Blaise, Lorenzo, Pansy, Daphne, Astoria, Theodore, and Arabella waited in silence.

"Now what?" Mattheo murmured.

Lucius Malfoy stepped forward.

—They have reached the age where they must assume the responsibilities of their families. In a few weeks they will receive the Dark Mark and officially become Death Eaters.

A heavy silence fell over the room.

"It was just a matter of time..." Draco said softly.

But Lucius wasn't finished yet.

—And there's one more thing.

Theodore frowned.

—What matter?

Mr. Nott took the floor.

—Seventeen years ago, the Malfoy and Nott families made a pact. To strengthen our alliance, the heirs of both houses will marry.

Arabella raised an eyebrow.

-…Who is it?

—You and Theodore.

"What?!" they both exclaimed at the same time.

"That's absurd," Arabella said coldly. "I can hardly stand it."

Theodore let out an incredulous laugh.

—Believe me, I have no intention of marrying her either.

"We're not asking if they want to do it," Lucius interjected.

"Well, I refuse," replied Theodore.

—Me too.

Mr. Nott watched them calmly.

—It's not a decision they can make.

Regulus looked at Theodore and then at Arabella.

—Wait… was this already planned?

"Since before they were born," Lucius replied.

Blaise let out a whistle.

-Oh…

—From today onward, you will train together for your initiation as Death Eaters and attend all family engagements together. It is time for you to learn how to behave as the future leaders of your households.

Theodore turned towards Arabella with a smile full of annoyance.

—This will be hell.

Arabella held his gaze, flawless and proud.

—No, Nott… hell will be yours.