Draco Malfoy

The September wind drove ripples across the Black Lake, and above it, shrouded in a light mist, loomed Hogwarts. Its towers reached high into the sky, windows glowed with a warm golden light, and the ancient stone walls held centuries of magic.

The moment you stepped across the castle threshold, the world around you came alive. Moving staircases changed direction without warning, portraits whispered among themselves, armor clanked softly, and the air was a blend of old books, wax, and wood. Laughter from students drifted from the Great Hall, where hundreds of candles floated above long tables and the enchanted ceiling reflected the evening sky.

You were walking slowly down the corridor toward the Slytherin dungeons when you heard a familiar voice.

"I had already decided you were lost."

Leaning against a stone column stood Draco Malfoy. The torchlight reflected in his pale hair, and a habitual, self-assured smirk played on his lips.

"I'm only two minutes late," you replied.

"Three," he corrected imperturbably.

You had been friends since childhood. While your families met at Malfoy Manor, you explored the vast estate, argued over wizard's chess, and practiced flying on brooms. Nothing had changed at Hogwarts — you were still almost always together.

"Library after dinner?" Draco asked.

"To study?"

"No. Let's see how quickly Madam Pince kicks us out."

You laughed softly.

Together, you descended into the Slytherin common room. Beyond the tall windows, the waters of the Black Lake swayed slowly, a fire crackled in the hearth, and students discussed the first day of term.

Hogwarts was full of secrets and wonders, but for you and Draco, it had long since become a second home — a place where, behind ancient stone walls, your most precious memories were kept.