Shadows of Slytherin Book 1

Pansy

As I stood there, hidden from view, I listened to every word Mattheo spoke to Dani. My heart sank as I heard him tell her that he was going to let her be with Draco. I knew that he must have had a very good reason for saying that, as he would never give up on his love for her so easily.

Mattheo walked out of the room, and I could see the pain in his eyes. It was clear that he was struggling with his decision, but he believed it was the right thing to do. I watched as he took a deep breath, trying to compose himself before leaving the hallway.

As he walked out the door, I couldn't help but feel sorry for him. He had just let go of the love of his life, but he did it to protect her. I knew that he wouldn't have made such a sacrifice if it wasn't absolutely necessary.

Suddenly, we both heard Dani softly sobbing. My heart broke for her. She had already been through so much, and now she had lost the man she loved.

Mattheo stopped in his tracks, as if he wanted to turn back and take everything he had said back. But he shook his head, knowing that it was too late to change his decision.

Mattheo had never been a very emotional person, but when he met Dani, everything changed. She was the one who brought light into his life and gave him a reason to live. She changed Mattheo for the better. 

I watched as he wiped a tear from his face and rushed off, trying to keep his emotions in check. I knew that this was not easy for him, and that he was hurting just as much as Dani was... but I don't think she knows that.

As I stood there, I couldn't help but wonder what had led Mattheo to make such a difficult decision. But one thing was clear - he loved Dani more than anything in the world, and he was willing to make any sacrifice to protect her.

As Dani's sobs grew louder, I could sense her vulnerability if anyone else were to hear her. I knew I had to act fast, so I quickly made my way to the entrance of the doorway and drew out my wand, whispering, "Silencio." The spell worked like a charm, and the room fell silent.

As I walked in, my heart ached seeing Dani curled up in the bed, tears streaming down her face. I climbed into bed next to her and gently wrapped my arm around her, offering her the comfort and support she so desperately needed. "It's okay, Dani. Let it out. I'm here for you always," I whispered softly, hoping to ease her pain.

For what seemed like hours, Dani cried herself to sleep, her body exhausted from the emotional turmoil she had been going through. I stayed with her throughout the night, keeping a watchful eye over her, making sure she was safe and protected.

The next morning, I helped Dani up to her room. Though she looked less pale, the dark circles under her eyes and tear streaks on her cheeks were still prominent. Dumbledore had advised her to take the next few days off from school to rest, which I wholeheartedly agreed with. 

However, Dani, being the stubborn and selfless person she was, refused to take a break. She always tried to please everyone and put others before herself, often resulting in overworking herself and neglecting her own needs.

It's no surprise that everyone seems to love her - there's just something about her that draws people in. Maybe the determination she perceives on not giving up. Perhaps it's her infectious smile or her compassionate nature that makes others feel comfortable around her. Whatever it is, she has a unique ability to bring out the best in people.

Her knack for connecting with others is undeniable. She effortlessly gets along with everyone she meets, taking the time to listen to their stories and find common ground. It's as if she has a sixth sense for finding similarities and shared interests, which makes building relationships with her an effortless task.

But what truly sets her apart is her selflessness. She always puts others before herself and goes above and beyond to help those in need. Her kindness knows no bounds, and she never hesitates to lend a hand or offer a shoulder to cry on.

It's no wonder that even those who have never met her feel drawn to her. In a world where negativity and self-interest can dominate, her pure heart and genuine compassion are what people need right now.

As I approach Mattheo's room, the faint smell of smoke hits me. I enter the room and see him sitting on his bed, puffing on a cigarette. I am taken aback as I remember that he had quit smoking ages ago, thanks to Dani's support. However, with Dani gone, it seems that he has resumed the habit.

"What the hell are you doing?" I ask, my tone reflecting my shock and disapproval.

Mattheo lights the cigarette and takes a long drag before responding, "What does it look like, Pansy?"

I roll my eyes. "No, you idiot, I meant what are you doing about Dani? Are you just going to let her go?"

He doesn't meet my gaze. "I have no choice. That's the way things are."

I scoff, "That's bullshit, Mattheo. You used to be willing to risk everything for Dani. What's changed now?"

Mattheo looks up at me, his expression guarded. "Things have changed, Pansy."

I shake my head in frustration. "You becoming a Death Eater has changed things, hasn't it? But the truth is, we were all destined for this misery since the day we were born."

"It's not that simple," Mattheo replies, his voice tense. "My father will kill Dani if he finds out that we were together. I can't risk her life."

"She's been on his hit list since the day her parents died, Mattheo," I remind him, my voice rising. "You knew the risks, but you chose to be with her anyway. And even if he finds out about your relationship, he won't spare her just because his son is in love with her."

Mattheo shakes his head, a pained expression on his face. "It doesn't matter. I know she has feelings for Draco."

I let out a frustrated sigh. "What made you think that? The kiss? God, Mattheo... Are you really that fucking oblivious? She's in love with you!"

I shake my head in disbelief, my heart heavy with disappointment. "Hell, I don't think she would ever love anyone as much as she loves you," I tell him with a bitter edge to my voice.

As I utter those words, I see the realization dawn on his face. His eyes widen, and his expression changes to one of regret and sorrow. He looks up at me with pleading eyes, his voice barely above a whisper. "I ruined everything... didn't I?"

I nod, the weight of the situation sinking in. "Yeah, you did. You let her slip through your fingers, and now you'll have to watch the love of your life be with someone else."

His jaw clenches, and I can see the pain in his eyes. My words hit him hard, and the regret is all over his face. "You better hope that someday she comes back to you," I continue, my tone sharp with anger. "And if that day comes...?" I look down at him with a mean glare, my voice dripping with warning. "You better not fuck it up."

As I turn to leave the room, I can't help but glance back at Mattheo. His face looks remorseful, and I know he's aware of the hurt he's caused.

"I know you heard her sobs, Mattheo." I say firmly, making sure to meet his gaze. "And if you ever make her feel like that again after everything she's been through, you're going to have to deal with me."

My voice is unwavering as I speak these words, and I mean every one of them. I know how much my friend has suffered in the past, and the last thing she needs is someone causing her more pain. Especially if that someone if her first love. 

Mattheo looks at me for a moment, "I didn't mean to hurt her, Pansy..." he says quietly, and I can see the regret in his eyes.

I open the door and slam it shut behind me. I need to find something to release the anger inside of me... Better yet, someone.