Because Rose Weasley blazes through life in a flash of red ponytails, sparkling eyes, and a laugh that kindles warmth in even the hardest of hearts.
Because Scorpius Malfoy carves out his existence in a sleet of icy hair, steely eyes, and a penetrating stare.
Because Rose Weasley shoots for the stars, never second guesses, is always one step ahead.
Because Scorpius Malfoy keeps his gaze on the distance, ignores the sideways glances, knows there's more to the world.
Because they are two people, on parallel paths, never meeting.
Because Rose Weasley basks in the warmth of her friends and family, shines brighter for it.
Because Scorpius Malfoy skates on the edges, hardens under the stony stares of strangers.
Because Rose Weasley leaves no man or woman behind. Because she always has your back even when she seems miles ahead.
Because Scorpius Malfoy never needs anyone's help. Because he stands alone even when surrounded by people.
Because he isn't supposed to look into the sun, but since when did he ever do what he was supposed to?
Because that laugh cracks something side him. Because sunlight pours in.
Because he can't look away.
Because she isn't one to back down.
Because something glints behind the steel armour.
Because something inside her yearns to uncover it.
Because the sun is in his eyes and her heart is in her mouth. Because paths swerve, diverge, merge.
Because fire and ice collide. A sharp intake of breath and a scalding touch. Because a flicker kindles. A glimmer of something so delicate, she has to tell herself not to exhale too quickly for fear of blowing it out. A feeling so soft he dares not move a muscle. A shimmering glow. Too quiet, too gentle to be anything. And yet hearts beat loudly. It was barely a stumble, but the fall is hard.
Because he looks into the sun without fear of being burnt. Because she slips on the ice and embraces the fall. Because she shares her warmth and he wards off the cold. Because he lets the light in and she keeps out the darkness. Because somehow, the world shines brighter when they're together.
Because the flicker grows.