**Chapter 4: A Fragile Understanding**

The soft glow of the evening sun cast a warm light on the Malfoy estate as Selene and Draco made their way to his room. The air was alive with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the distant chirping of birds, a stark contrast to the tension that had hung between them earlier. As they entered Draco's room, Selene was struck by the sense of calm that pervaded the space. The room was dimly lit, with only a few candles flickering to light the area. The large four-poster bed dominated the room, its dark wood and crimson drapes a testament to the Malfoy family's opulence. Draco walked over to the window and pulled back the curtains, revealing a breathtaking view of the estate's gardens. "I used to come here as a child," he said, his voice low and contemplative. "My father would lecture me on my duties, on the importance of carrying on the Malfoy name. I never understood it then, but I do now." Selene walked over to him, her footsteps quiet on the plush carpet. She slipped her hand into his, and he didn't pull away. Instead, he squeezed her hand gently, his eyes still fixed on the gardens below. "I know you do, Draco," she said, her voice soft. "And I want to help you find a way to balance your duties with your own desires. I want us to build a life together, one that's not just about legacy and reputation." Draco turned to her, his eyes searching. "You really want that, don't you?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of wonder. Selene nodded, her heart pounding in her chest. "I do," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I want us to be happy, to find a way to make this work, together." The air seemed to vibrate with tension as Draco's eyes locked onto hers. For a moment, Selene thought she saw something there, something that looked almost like hope. Then, slowly, Draco's face softened, and he reached out to brush a strand of hair behind her ear. "Let's make a start, then," he said, his voice low and husky. "Let's try to find a way to make this work, together." As he spoke, his fingers grazed her skin, sending shivers down her spine. Selene felt a flutter in her chest, a sense of excitement and anticipation. She knew that 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. The sound of a knock at the door broke the spell, and Draco's eyes narrowed. "That will be my father," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of wariness. "He's not one to wait for an invitation." Selene took a deep breath, steeling herself for the conversation ahead. She knew that it wouldn't be easy, but she was ready to face it, as long as Draco was by her side. "Let's do this," she said, her voice firm. Draco's eyes locked onto hers, and he nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Together, always," he whispered, before turning to face the door.