I'm gonna make this chapter really long as a lot is going to happen hehe but I'm very excited.

DRACO MALFOY

The next morning, I found myself pacing outside Victoria's room, my mind still reeling from the events of the night before. My grandmother, Druella Black, had arrived late in the evening, her presence as imposing as ever. Narcissa had clearly filled her in on everything—Victoria, the tasks, and the undeniable connection between us.

Taking a deep breath, I knocked softly before stepping into her room. Victoria was sitting by the window, the morning light spilling across her dark hair and delicate features. She looked up at me, her expression a mixture of curiosity and concern.

"I need to tell you what happened last night," I began, sitting across from her. "My parents... and your father... they think this—us—will complicate things. They talked about reputation, danger, and... the consequences."

Victoria's lips pressed into a thin line as she listened, her eyes searching mine for answers. "And what do you think?" she asked softly.

"I think they're right about the complications," I admitted. "But I don't care. I told them how I feel about you. They'll have to deal with it."

Her expression softened, and she reached out, brushing her fingers against mine briefly before pulling away.

"We should get ready," she said, her voice steady despite the tension hanging between us.

I nodded and left to change. When I returned, she was standing by the mirror, adjusting her black skirt and turtle neck. The all-black attire suited her as much as it haunted me—a reminder of the marks we now bore and the paths we couldn't escape.

We walked down to breakfast together, and as we entered the dining room, my grandmother's sharp gaze landed on us immediately. Druella Black was seated at the head of the table, her regal presence impossible to ignore.

"Draco," she greeted, her tone warm yet commanding. "Come here, my boy."

I leaned down to kiss her cheek, murmuring a polite greeting. She then turned her attention to Victoria, her eyes lighting up as she stood and moved toward her.

"Victoria Nott," Druella said with a smile, cupping her cheek gently. "You're even more stunning than I imagined. Look at you—such exquisite hair, striking eyes, and that figure. Simply perfect. You remind me so much of your mother"

Victoria blushed under the onslaught of compliments, her usual composure faltering slightly. Druella kissed her cheek and pulled her into an embrace, patting her back fondly.

"You'll do quite well for my grandson," she said with a wink, her tone conspiratorial. "A fine match, indeed."

I stiffened slightly, glancing toward my parents, who were exchanging unreadable looks. Victoria offered a polite smile, but I could see the unease in her eyes as she thanked my grandmother quietly.

"Draco," Druella said, her voice regaining its sharpness. "After breakfast, come see me in the study. We have much to discuss."

I nodded, my throat tightening at the thought of whatever conversation awaited. For now, I sat beside Victoria, my hand brushing hers under the table briefly as we faced the morning together.

The crisp winter air bit at my skin as Victoria and I strolled through the garden, the frost-covered hedges glistening under the pale sunlight. Her hand fit perfectly in mine, a comfort I hadn't realized I needed until now. Every so often, I glanced at her, the way her dark hair framed her face, the way her lips curved when she smiled—it was maddening how effortlessly beautiful she was.

When we were sure no one was watching, I tugged her closer, stealing a quick kiss. She laughed softly, a sound that made my chest tighten, and leaned her head on my shoulder as we continued walking.

"My grandmother is likely plotting some grand scheme in that study," I muttered, voicing my growing unease. "She's always been sharp, but now I'm not sure if she's helping or testing me."

Victoria tilted her head to look at me, a teasing glint in her eye. "Draco, she adores me. You heard her—'exquisite hair, striking eyes, and that figure.'" She gave an exaggerated flip of her hair, her grin infectious. "She won't dare complain about me."

I chuckled despite myself, shaking my head. "Well, she's not wrong," I admitted, earning a playful shove from Victoria.

She stopped walking suddenly, turning to face me, her hands sliding up to rest on my chest. "Stop worrying," she said softly, her tone serious now. "Whatever she says, we'll figure it out together."

Her lips found mine, and this time, the kiss was deeper, more deliberate. I lost myself in her warmth, in the way she melted into me, until a sharp cough shattered the moment.

We sprang apart, my heart racing as I turned to see a house-elf scurrying away, pretending not to notice us. Victoria covered her mouth, stifling a laugh, and I placed a protective hand on her lower back, guiding her back toward the house.

As we approached the grand entryway, my grandmother appeared out of the kitchen, her sharp eyes taking us in. Her gaze lingered on Victoria, a smile curving her lips.

"Victoria, my dear," Druella greeted, leaning in to kiss her cheek again. "You truly are radiant. Simply perfect for our Draco."

Victoria blushed faintly, murmuring a polite thank you before Grandmother dismissed her with a gentle pat on the arm. I couldn't help but agree as I watched her ascend the staircase, her grace unmatched.

"She's beautiful, isn't she?" Druella said, her tone thoughtful.

"Yes, she's perfect" I replied without hesitation, my gaze still on Victoria until she disappeared from view.

"Come, Draco," my grandmother said, motioning toward the study. "We have much to discuss."

I followed her, the weight of what lay ahead pressing heavily on my shoulders.

VICTORIA NOTT

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting long shadows across the room as I sat at my vanity, trying to steady my breathing. Another meeting. Another command. The air in Malfoy Manor had grown heavier in the past few days, the tension palpable after Draco's private discussion with Druella. He hadn't shared much, but the distant look in his eyes and the way he lingered in silence spoke volumes. Something was shifting, and not for the better.

A soft knock at my door pulled me from my thoughts. Before I could answer, the door creaked open, and Draco stepped in, his presence as commanding as ever. He wore a dark suit tailored perfectly to his form, his platinum hair neatly combed back but with a single strand rebelliously falling over his forehead. His silver eyes locked onto mine, softening when he noticed my hesitation.

"You look stunning," he murmured, his voice low as he approached.

I glanced down at my reflection. The black dress I had chosen was knee-length, hugging my figure snugly with its elegant design, I was wearing black tights which added modesty and covered me up from the cold Manor. The square neckline left just enough to the imagination, and my black heels added a touch of sophistication.

"Thank you," I replied softly, smoothing the fabric nervously.

Draco reached out, his fingers brushing against my arm. "We'll get through this. Together."

I nodded, allowing him to take my hand and lead me out.

As we descended the grand staircase, the sound of my heels clicking against the marble echoed through the vast hall. Draco's hand rested lightly on the small of my back, guiding me with an unspoken promise of protection. At the base of the stairs, Theo stood waiting, his expression a mix of unease and determination.

We entered the dining hall, the heavy mahogany table already surrounded by familiar faces. Bellatrix sat near the head, her wild hair framing her face as she smirked at us. Voldemort's pale, snake-like visage was as unnerving as ever, his red eyes following us as we took our seats. Draco and I sat side by side, our hands finding each other under the table, fingers interlocking in silent defiance.

Voldemort began to speak, his voice smooth yet filled with malice. He spoke of bloodlines, of purity, and the importance of maintaining the strength of the Dark Lord's army. The room echoed with dark laughter when he casually mentioned arranging marriages among his followers.

My stomach twisted.

"As we all know," Voldemort continued, his gaze falling directly on me and Draco, "some unions are not merely convenient but essential."

Bellatrix's cackling laughter cut through the room as she leaned forward, her gaze flicking between us. "Draco and little Victoria," she taunted, her voice dripping with mockery. "A match made in the Dark Lord's image. How romantic."

Draco's jaw tightened, his hand squeezing mine under the table.

Voldemort's voice silenced the room. "It is decided. Draco Malfoy and Victoria Nott shall wed. Their union will solidify our future and ensure the next generation of heirs. Boys, of course—three, at the very least, to begin with. Then the girls can come along afterwards."

Theo gasped, almost shrieked at the idea of his twin sister and his best friend marrying, My heart stopped.

My father's voice broke the silence. "Three to begin with?" he asked cautiously. "How many heirs are you expecting from my daughter, my Lord?"

Voldemort's thin lips curled into a smile. "Six, perhaps seven. The bloodline must remain strong and pure."

I gasped audibly, the weight of his words suffocating me.

Before I could process, Narcissa and Bellatrix stood, approaching me with purpose. Narcissa's expression was apologetic, but Bellatrix looked thrilled, her grin wicked.

"Come, dear, we have to check you're good enough for our Dracey." Bellatrix said with mock sweetness.

Draco tried to protest, but Narcissa placed a hand on his shoulder. "This must be done, Draco."

I was ushered upstairs to my bedroom, the door closing ominously behind us. My heart pounded as they tied my hands together, Bellatrix circling me like a predator.

"Well, let's see what we have here," she sneered, her hands gripping my hips firmly.

I flinched as her hands roamed, squeezing my thighs hardly, brushing over my stomach, grabbing it and nodding in approval, and lingering on my chest. "Yes, good child-bearing hips," she declared. "This one will be fruitful."

"Stop!" I cried, my voice trembling.

Narcissa averted her eyes, her wand trembling in her hand. "Forgive me, Victoria," she whispered, casting a spell.

A sharp, searing pain tore through me as the spell took hold. I screamed, my vision blurring as my knees threatened to give way. The room swam as Bellatrix laughed, clapping her hands together.

"Highly fertile, she will produce many male heirs for Draco. " she announced gleefully.

Narcissa helped me to the bed, her face pale with guilt as Bellatrix strode out of the room, announcing loudly to the rest of the house what she had discovered.

Downstairs, Voldemort laughed and clapped his hands in satisfaction.

Draco burst through the door moments later, his face pale with fury and concern. He rushed to my side, pulling me into his arms.

"I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice breaking as he held me close.

I buried my face in his chest, tears streaming down my cheeks. The warmth of his embrace was my only solace as the nightmare continued. The pain from the spell still surged in my body, causing me to jolt. I couldn't stand up. My stomach was in so much pain. All I did was lay in Draco's arms and cry. 

***

The morning light filtered softly through the heavy drapes of my bedroom. My body still ached from the previous day's ordeal, and my mind was a blur of confusion and dread. A soft knock on my door interrupted my thoughts.

"It's me," Druella Black's familiar voice called.

I managed to sit up as she entered. Despite her cold exterior, Druella's expression was uncharacteristically gentle. She crossed the room, sitting elegantly on the edge of my bed.

"Victoria," she began, her voice soft yet firm. "What happened yesterday—what they did—it is cruel, but it is necessary. I know this doesn't ease the pain, but it happened to me too."

My eyes widened in shock.

"Yes," she continued, smoothing the fabric of her dark dress. "When I was young, I was subjected to the same examination. This is how they ensure the bloodlines are pure, the heirs strong. It is vile, but it is the world we were born into."

I didn't know what to say. Druella's confession was both comforting and horrifying. She reached for my hand, squeezing it tightly.

"I see the strength in you, my dear," she said. "You will endure this. And you have Draco. He loves you, even if he hasn't said it yet."

Her words made my heart ache.

A short while later, Narcissa entered the room, her face pale with guilt. "Victoria," she began, her voice trembling. "I am so sorry for what happened yesterday. I never wanted to hurt you, but I had no choice."

I nodded silently, not trusting myself to speak.

After Narcissa left, Theo appeared in the doorway. He strode over to me, his brow furrowed with concern. Sitting on the bed beside me, he studied my face carefully.

"How are you holding up?" he asked.

"I'll survive," I said, forcing a small smile.

He nodded, but his expression remained serious. "Victoria... can I ask you something?"

"Of course," I replied.

"Are you..." He hesitated, glancing away for a moment before meeting my gaze again. "Are you a virgin?"

My cheeks burned at the question, but I nodded. "Yes."

Theo let out a breath of relief. "Good. Keep it that way. At least for now. You have enough to deal with without adding... that to the mix."

I frowned. "Why are you asking this?"

"Because I care about you," he said simply. "And because I know how these people think. Just... be careful, alright?"

I nodded again, touched by his protectiveness. Theo stayed a while longer, cracking a few jokes to lighten the mood before leaving.

That evening, Druella helped me to shower, standing just outside the curtain to ensure I didn't fall. My legs were weak, and my hands trembled as I washed away the remnants of the previous day. Druella handed me a soft towel when I stepped out, her eyes kind but firm.

"You're stronger than you think," she said, brushing a damp strand of hair from my face.

Later, as I lay in bed, the door creaked open again. Draco stepped in, his movements careful and deliberate. He was dressed casually in black trousers and a soft sweater, his expression tender.

"I couldn't sleep," he admitted, crossing the room to sit beside me. "I wanted to make sure you were alright."

"I'm fine," I lied.

Draco frowned, reaching out to tuck a stray lock of hair behind my ear. "You don't have to be fine, Victoria. Not with me."

His words broke something inside me, and tears welled in my eyes. Without hesitation, Draco slid into bed beside me, pulling me into his arms.

"Shh," he whispered, cradling me against his chest. "I'm here."

I clung to him, the warmth of his body grounding me. He pressed a soft kiss to my temple, his fingers gently tracing circles on my back.

"You're so strong," he murmured. "Stronger than any of them could ever be."

I tilted my head to look up at him, and our eyes met. The intensity in his gaze made my heart race. Slowly, he leaned down, brushing his lips against mine in a kiss so tender it brought tears to my eyes.

"Thank you," I whispered.

"For what?" he asked softly.

"For being here," I replied.

We stayed like that for hours, wrapped in each other's arms. Draco whispered comforting words, his hands never straying from safe, soothing touches. When morning came, I felt a little stronger, a little more prepared to face whatever was coming.

At dinner, the tension in the room was palpable. Lucius and Andrew discussed the engagement briefly, their words careful and measured. Narcissa sat beside Druella, both women exchanging looks that spoke volumes.

Draco's hand found mine under the table, squeezing gently.

Tomorrow would bring another meeting, another trial. But for now, I found solace in the quiet moments with Draco, his presence a shield against the storm threatening to consume us both.

***

DRACO MALFOY

The morning sunlight spilled through the heavy drapes, warming the room with its golden glow. I woke to the comforting weight of Victoria nestled against me, her head resting on my chest. Her breath was soft and even, her dark lashes fanning out against her cheeks. For a moment, I stayed still, savoring the peace of holding her so close.

Leaning down, I pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, then to her temple, her cheek, and finally the corner of her lips. "Wake up, darling," I whispered, my voice low. "The sun's already up, and it's much too beautiful a day for you to sleep through."

She stirred slightly, her brows furrowing as she nuzzled closer. I chuckled softly, running my fingers through her hair.

Before she fully woke, a gentle knock sounded at the door. I tensed instinctively as it creaked open to reveal Druella Black, my grandmother. She stood there, regal and composed, her sharp eyes assessing the scene before her.

"Good morning, Draco," she said smoothly, a knowing glint in her gaze.

"Grandmother," I acknowledged, carefully slipping out of bed. I leaned down to kiss Victoria softly before turning to meet Druella in the hallway. Closing the door gently behind me, I straightened my posture, bracing myself for whatever she had to say.

Druella studied me, her gaze as piercing as ever. "You seem well," she remarked.

"I am," I replied carefully. "How are you?"

She waved a hand dismissively. "I'm not the one who's had to endure the trials of late. How are you holding up with all of... this?"

I hesitated. "I'm managing. The meetings, the demands—it's a lot to take in."

Druella's expression softened, something rare for her. "Draco, you may look like a Malfoy, but you are a Black at heart. Your strength, your passion—they come from my side of the family. Never forget that."

"I want to make you proud," I admitted, my voice quiet. "And to respect our family name, as Father would want."

"You will," she assured me, her tone firm. "But you must do it your way. Your father may have his methods, but you are not him, nor should you try to be."

She placed a hand on my shoulder, squeezing gently. "I've procured a potion for Victoria. It will help her recover from what she endured. I know you care for her deeply, Draco. Take care of her."

I nodded, a swell of gratitude filling my chest. "Thank you, Grandmother."

With that, Druella and I reentered Victoria's room. She was sitting up now, her legs tucked under her, engrossed in a book I recognized instantly as Pride and Prejudice. The sight of her so serene brought a small smile to my lips.

"Good morning," she greeted us, her voice soft but warm.

Druella stepped forward, setting the potion on the bedside table. "Drink this, my dear. It will ease your discomfort."

Victoria's gaze flicked between us, her brow furrowing slightly, but she obeyed. As she drank, Druella gave her a kind smile. "Rest today, both of you. The meeting isn't until later tonight. Make use of the time."

With a final squeeze of my arm and a warm wish for Victoria's recovery, My grandmother left the room, closing the door quietly behind her.

I sat on the edge of the bed, watching Victoria place the empty vial down. She looked at me, her eyes searching mine. "What did you talk about with your grandmother?"

I hesitated, then decided honesty was best. "She reminded me to be myself. That I'm not just a Malfoy, but a Black as well. And... she mentioned our engagement."

Victoria's expression softened. "How do you feel about it?"

I took her hand in mine, tracing small circles on her palm. "It's not what I imagined my life would be like. But the thought of marrying you... I don't hate it."

She blushed slightly, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I don't hate it either."

We talked for what felt like hours, discussing our feelings, our fears, and our hopes for the future. At one point, I leaned forward, capturing her lips in a kiss that was both tender and passionate.

The rest of the day was spent in a haze of stolen moments and shared laughter. We wandered the manor, finding solace in the library, where we read together and teased each other like children. For the first time in days, the weight of our world felt a little lighter.

Even though the night's meeting loomed ahead, for now, we had each other, and that was enough.

VICTORIA NOTT

The cool fabric of my dress hugged my figure as I gave my reflection a final once-over. The black off-the-shoulder maxi dress was sleek and elegant, flowing down to just brush the tops of my black lace ankle boots. Paired with sheer black tights, the outfit felt like the perfect mix of sophistication and edge. I clipped on my mother's delicate pearl earrings and adjusted the matching bracelet around my wrist.

Draco's necklace rested just above my collarbone, its weight comforting. I let out a small sigh as I curled the last strand of my hair, letting it fall behind me in soft waves. As I reached to adjust one of the earrings, the door creaked open.

Draco stepped in, dressed in an all-black suit that made my heart skip. The tailored blazer hugged his shoulders perfectly, and the dark shirt beneath it gave him an effortlessly striking look. His stormy grey eyes landed on me, and I could see his breath catch.

"Merlin," he murmured, stepping closer. "You look... breathtaking."

Heat rushed to my cheeks as his gaze traveled over me, deliberate and filled with admiration.

"Your hair," he said softly, brushing a curl behind my ear. "Your eyes, your lips—every part of you is perfect." His hand ghosted down my arm, stopping just at my wrist. "Even your legs," he added with a teasing smirk, his voice low.

I laughed lightly, shaking my head. "And here I thought I was overdressed."

"You could never be," he replied, his tone firm.

Before I could respond, Theo barged in, his energy breaking the spell. He grinned widely, pulling me into a warm hug.

"How are you feeling?" Theo asked, his brow furrowing slightly in concern.

I waved him off with a mock-serious expression. "Oh, you know, just the usual existential dread and occasional bouts of terror. Nothing a girl can't handle."

Theo blinked, clearly unimpressed, but I couldn't help bursting into laughter at my own joke. "You're insufferable," he muttered, shaking his head while Draco chuckled quietly beside me.

We made our way downstairs, Draco's hand resting lightly on the small of my back as we descended the large staircase. His touch was steadying, and I was grateful for it as the slight click of my heels echoed against the stone.

The grand dining hall was already filled with Death Eaters when we arrived. Their dark robes and intense gazes made the atmosphere heavy. Voldemort sat at the head of the table, his presence as commanding and terrifying as ever.

Draco and I bowed deeply, murmuring respectful greetings before taking our seats. Theo slid into the chair on my other side, and I felt the comforting presence of both men anchoring me.

Voldemort began to speak, his voice cold and calculated as he once again emphasized the importance of keeping the bloodlines pure. His words cut through the air, each one landing heavily.

I felt Draco's hand slip under the table, his fingers intertwining with mine. I squeezed his hand gently, finding strength in the silent connection.

As Voldemort continued, his gaze swept over us, lingering briefly on Draco and me. My heart raced, but I kept my expression neutral. He made yet another pointed comment about pureblood alliances, the hint of a smile curling his lips.

The room filled with dark laughter, but all I could feel was Draco's hand in mine, grounding me in the storm.

Voldemort's voice was steady, chilling, and deliberate as he continued addressing the table of Death Eaters. I sat rigid, my hand still locked with Draco's beneath the table, trying to stay composed despite the weight of every word he spoke.

"At the New Year's Ball, I will make an important announcement," Voldemort said, his tone carrying a sinister undercurrent. His piercing gaze swept over Draco and me, and my stomach twisted in anticipation. "The engagement of Draco Malfoy and Victoria Nott will be officially declared."

My breath caught in my throat as the room broke into murmurs, a few scattered laughs rippling through the crowd. Beside me, I felt Draco tense, his fingers tightening slightly around mine.

"The wedding," Voldemort continued, his gaze unwavering, "will take place on April 20th this year. A union of great importance for the continuation of pureblood strength and the Malfoy lineage. We expect many heirs from you both, you will have very beautiful children."

The laughter in the room grew louder, but Voldemort silenced it with a wave of his hand. "There will, of course, be rules."

I shifted uncomfortably in my seat, feeling the weight of every eye in the room on us.

"Firstly," he said, his voice dripping with amusement, "no sexual relations until the wedding night. We don't want any illegitimate heirs. We don't want a scandal."

Heat rushed to my cheeks, and I could feel Draco's hand twitch in mine.

"Secondly, no sharing a bed until the vows are exchanged. And finally, no infidelity. Your union will be one of honor, strength, and fidelity. A bond that will inspire loyalty to our cause."

The room erupted into laughter again, and I wanted nothing more than to disappear. Draco's hand stayed steady, though I could feel the tension radiating from him.

Voldemort's voice grew darker as he began describing the wedding itself. "It will be grand, the largest celebration of our era. Every pureblood family of worth will attend, and it will stand as a testament to our vision. It will be the largest and greatest ceremony."

My heart pounded, but it was his next words that sent a cold chill through my veins.

"And of course, after the ceremony, there will be a bedding ritual to solidify the union."

The laughter in the room swelled, and I couldn't stop myself from gasping aloud. Voldemort ignored it, continuing with a twisted smile.

"Close family and friends will witness the creation of the first Malfoy heir. You will be covered by a ceremonial cloth, ensuring propriety while fulfilling your duty to the bloodline. We will keep the cloth to prove consummation of these future heirs."

My mouth went dry, and I felt Draco's hand grow clammy in mine. We exchanged a glance, both of us wide-eyed and utterly horrified.

The meeting was finally dismissed, and Draco practically yanked me out of my chair. We hurried upstairs, Theo rushing behind us, his face pale with shock.

Once we reached my room, we all collapsed onto the bed, our breaths coming in short, frantic bursts.

"This can't be happening," I said, my voice trembling as I hugged my knees to my chest. "How are we supposed to—"

"We'll figure it out," Draco interrupted, his voice firm but his eyes betraying his own fear. He pulled me into his arms, holding me tightly as if to shield me from everything.

Theo sat on the edge of the bed, running a hand through his hair. "This is insane. A bedding ceremony? That's barbaric."

Draco pressed a soft kiss to my forehead, his hand gently rubbing my back. "I won't let them humiliate you like this," he whispered. "I promise."

I nodded against his chest, trying to draw strength from his words, but the weight of what Voldemort had decreed loomed over us like a storm cloud.

For a while, we all just sat there, huddled together in the silence, trying to calm the storm in our minds. Theo offered a few jokes to lighten the mood, but even he couldn't mask the unease that hung in the air.

Draco's embrace stayed constant, and his soft reassurances were the only thing keeping me grounded. Whatever was coming, I knew we'd face it together.