If there was one thing Mr. Draco Malfoy hated, it was mornings. During mornings, he was lethargic, mussed, and grouchy. More grouchy that usual, at least. Especially after the war. And every morning, he awoke to the reminder that he lived in a house under watch.
"Good morning, Draco," said his mother, sipping tea daintily in the dining room. When he groaned and snapped his fingers for a house elf, her eyes narrowed, ever so slightly. She said nothing. A house elf came. Then left. Then came back with a tray of toast and jam. She coughed. He turned. "I set up...a date for you. It will take place tomorrow, at the new French restaurant by Hogsmeade." He raised his brow. After the war, it was as if we was a child again. Without, of course, the influence of his father. His mother would set him up on dates with women. So far, everyone of them had been repulsed. Yet, they were like toys. Fun to wind up, even if they were temporary.
"Oh, may I ask who will be enjoying my company this time around?" A long silence passed.
"Astoria Greengrass." Draco felt the sneer on his face before his mother saw it for herself.
"The young Greengrass, the one who got sorted into Hufflepuff?"
"Well, wouldn't it be good to spread our roots?" She smiled, albeit a bit forcefully. Draco knew what she meant by this; Imagine what the Ministry and public will think of this; you dating a Hufflepuff from a neutral family.
"I suppose," he muttered. "What time?"
"Six. The house elves have laid out your wardrobe for tomorrow night," she said quietly. Draco nodded, bringing up the forgotten tray to his room. He couldn't wait to push the limit with this Hufflepuff. She'd probably take a good look at him and mumble some excuse. It's not as if he cared. He forgot to care lately.