**Chapter 2: A Web of Expectations**

The sunlight filtering through the stained glass windows of the dining hall cast colorful patterns on the floor, a stark contrast to the somber atmosphere that hung over the table like a shroud. Lucius Malfoy's eyes never left Draco's face as he spoke, his voice dripping with an air of superiority. "As you know, son, the Malfoy family has a long history of... involvement in the wizarding world. Our reputation, our influence, are all built on the back of our family's legacy." Selene's gaze flicked to Draco, her eyes searching for a glimpse of his emotions. His face was set in a mask of indifference, but she could sense the tension in his shoulders, the way his jaw clenched ever so slightly. Lucius continued, his voice unwavering. "Your marriage to... Damaris," he paused, the slight hesitation a reminder that he still didn't fully accept her as his daughter-in-law, "has brought a certain... unpredictability to our family's future. I expect you both to uphold the Malfoy name, to ensure that our legacy continues to thrive." The air was thick with unspoken meaning, and Selene felt a shiver run down her spine. She knew that Lucius was referring to her own... complicated past, the rumors and whispers that had followed her into her marriage. She also knew that she had to tread carefully, to prove herself worthy of the Malfoy name. As the meal drew to a close, Lucius pushed back his chair, his movements economical and precise. "I expect to see you both at dinner tonight. We will discuss this further, and I expect you to have come to some... understanding." The dinner bell rang, and the door to the hallway opened. A soft voice called out, "The carriage is ready, Lord Lucius." Lucius nodded, his eyes flicking to Draco. "I have a meeting with the Pure-blood Association. I expect you to be there, son. We will discuss the... implications of your marriage, and the future of our family's influence." Draco's eyes flashed with annoyance, but he nodded curtly. "I'll be there, Father." The tension between them was palpable, and Selene couldn't help but wonder what was at stake. As Lucius departed, she felt a sense of unease settle over her. She knew that she had to navigate the complex web of expectations that had been placed upon her, to prove herself worthy of the Malfoy name. As they left the dining hall, Draco turned to her, his eyes searching. "I think we need to talk," he said, his voice low. Selene nodded, her heart racing with anticipation. She knew that their conversation would be a turning point, a moment of truth that would determine the course of their marriage, and her place within the Malfoy family. They walked in silence, the only sound the echo of their footsteps off the marble floors. Finally, Draco spoke, his voice measured. "My father wants me to produce an heir, to secure the Malfoy legacy. But I... I don't know if I'm ready for that, or if I even want it." Selene's eyes met his, and for a moment, they just looked at each other, the air thick with unspoken meaning. She knew that this was a moment of truth, a moment that would define their marriage, and her place within the Malfoy family.