A Fragile Truce

The knock at the door came again, more insistent this time, and Draco's eyes never left Selene's as he called out, "Enter." The door swung open, and Lucius Malfoy stepped into the room, his gaze sweeping the space before coming to rest on Selene. "Ah, Selene," he said, his voice dripping with disdain. "I see you're still here. I had hoped that you would have had the decency to leave after our... discussion earlier." Selene felt a surge of anger at his tone, but Draco's hand tightened around hers, a gentle warning to keep her calm. "Father," Draco said, his voice even, "Selene and I were just discussing our future. I think it's time we had a say in the matter." Lucius's eyes narrowed, his gaze flicking to Draco's face before returning to Selene. "I'm afraid that's not possible," he said, his voice cold. "The arrangements have already been made. You will marry Narcissa's cousin, as planned." Selene felt a pang of disappointment, but Draco's grip on her hand remained firm. "I don't think that's necessary, Father," he said, his voice firm. "I've made a decision, and I intend to see it through." Lucius's face darkened, his eyes flashing with anger. "You'd be wise to remember your duties, Draco," he spat. "The Malfoy name is not to be taken lightly. You'll do as you're told, and marry the woman I've chosen for you." The air in the room seemed to vibrate with tension as Draco's face set in a determined expression. "I'm not going to do that, Father," he said, his voice firm. "I'm going to marry Selene, and that's final." Lucius's eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, Selene thought she saw a glimmer of fear in his eyes. But then, his face hardened, and he sneered at Draco. "You're making a grave mistake, boy," he said. "One that will cost you dearly." The silence that followed was oppressive, and Selene could feel the weight of Lucius's anger bearing down on them. But Draco stood tall, his eyes locked on his father's, a sense of defiance that Selene had never seen before. Finally, Lucius turned and strode out of the room, leaving the two of them alone. The tension in the room dissipated slightly, and Draco turned to Selene, a small smile on his face. "Well, that was... enlightening," he said, his voice wry. "I think it's safe to say that my father is not pleased with our decision." Selene laughed, a sense of relief washing over her. "I think that's an understatement," she said, her voice teasing. Draco's smile grew, and he pulled her into his arms. "But we have each other," he said, his voice low and husky. "And that's all that matters." As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, Selene felt a sense of hope that she had never felt before. They still had a long way to go, but for the first time, she felt like they were on the same path, moving forward together, no matter what challenges lay ahead.