Scorpius –
Your mother and I were not at all surprised, but still very glad, to learn that you have been placed in Slytherin House. Despite the negativity surrounding its past, it is a proud and powerful house, and I believe – and expect – that you will do well there. I hope that you will be able to channel your abundance of energy into success inside of the classroom and out. Knowing you have contributed to the victories of you house alongside your housemates is an unparalleled feeling.
I must add here that, although we are on friendlier terms these days, I hope to not learn that you are being bested too often by a Potter, or worse, a Weasley (though having Hermione as a mother may make the latter difficult at times). Nonetheless, please try to stay out of trouble as much as possible and focus instead on your studies. You know that our family has many enemies, and I do not want any of their children having the opportunity to take out old rivalries on you while you are away at Hogwarts.
And while I would never want you to be starting any issues with anyone, I certainly would understand if you were to properly finish any issue brought upon you. You are a Malfoy, after all, and we know how to take care of business when necessary.
A word of caution regarding your companions: remember to choose them with great care and thought, for the relationships you create now may very well follow you throughout all of you years at school and possibly beyond, for better or for worse. This is one of my greatest regrets when I look back at my own school years, on which I do not try to dwell too much, as you well know. But I like to think that I have learned from my many mistakes, and it is my desire that you can learn from them, as well, without the pain of having to go through them for yourself. I know I am not as openly expressive as your mother, but your safety and happiness are truly my top concern. I want you to know that, and to never forget it.
Speaking of your mother, she sends you all of her love and congratulations at your house placement. She misses you very much and is working hard at filling up her new free time since your departure. I do not think the manor has ever been so clean! But she is out now, at the invitation of Hermione and Ginny, in fact. They all seem to enjoy one another's company and to find comfort with others whose children are away at school for the first time, I think.
As for me, I have spent many hours deep into my Alchemy studies and with organizing some of the old family artifacts. The manor has also never felt so quiet before…which at times is nice, but I find myself almost wishing for an inconvenient interruption from my only son. Almost.
Thank you for writing so quickly and we will both await your next owl, your mother eagerly so.
Please keep safe,
Dad
Word Count: 528