Authors Note: I was honestly blown away by the great response to that first chapter. And living with one of my readers means there is no chance I get to stop uploading. Please keep the reviews and views coming.
I'm glad people are liking my characterization of Daphne, I didn't really read any Daphne fic before writing this and now knowing I'm doing something different I don't think I will until this is done. Also expect a slow burn, I'm here for the long haul.
The front balcony felt empty. It wasn't but everyone was so encapsulated in their own affairs that every other witch or wizard ceased to be of importance. This cafe was known for being where people of a certain rank went to talk business and discuss terms.
Its reputation made in the perfect spot for Narcissa and Daphne to meet. Narcissa had ordered a bottle of Dribble Plum wine for the table, despite the early afternoon and her companions sobriety. Daphine ordered herself a tea.
"Good to see you Miss Greengrass. Pity for the circumstance." Narcissa said dismissively.
"Pity seems to be a running theme with your house as of late." Daphne shot back.
"There is no reason for this to be an unpleasant meeting Daphne." The older woman sipped her wine, speaking like a parent to a rowdy teen.
"I can think of a few. Nevermind let's move on to your ridiculous contract draft."
"My contract is perfectly reasonable, any experienced family head would see that." Narcissa offered to pour Daphne wine, not waiting for a reply before pouring herself another glass.
"Reasonable for a house in equal standing perhaps. But with Lucius in shackles, The Malfoy's are not our equals. And you are not head of The House Of Black. You have nothing I want Narcissa." She sipped her tea, proud to hold her ground for her house.
Narcissa pursed her lips, finishing her glass as quickly as she could while maintaining dignity.
"Very well, Seems we are at an impasse. Shall we revisit this when plans are more concrete. When Draco and Astonia are more public." Narcissa collected her purse and starts to leave.
Narcissa sighed looking up like she was nostalgic about something long gone. She smirked, the knowing smirk of a mother."Head of your family so young, it will be hard you know. You will be tired, hurt and alone, maybe then I'll have you something want."
Daphne held her face still as stone, sipping her tea. Words she'd heard before held no barbs, and even if they did she'd never give Narcissa the satisfaction.
"And good luck with Potter" Narcissa called over her shoulder.
That quip drew blood to her cheeks, Daphne fought the urge to call back some denial. Thank Merlin the older witch had her back turned. Daphne sunk into her seat and finished her tea, trying not to run through any possible interaction she could have seen between her and Harry.
Harry, Ron and Hermione had planned a day out. Window shopping, then lunch and drinks at Broomsticks, finally Harry and Ron had fully planned to geek out over fantasy quidditch at Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes. They wandered the streets leisurely, in no real hurry to be anywhere.
"Aw, Harry bet Hermione's been missing us now that she's all on her own at Hogwarts." Ron joked, nudging Hermione with his shoulder.
"Funny that. I've actually discovered how much work I can get done when half my time isn't spent keeping you lot out of trouble." Hermione shot back, smiling the whole time.
"Got to be easier than the Auror testing." sighed Harry.
Somehow the conversation devolved from there to an argument between Ron and Harry about what constitutes cheating in fantasy quidditch. Hermione moderated as best she could.
Harry was so invested in claiming that draft changes could be legitimate in some circumstances that he didn't notice the woman he was almost going to walk into.
Daphne however was actually paying attention to her surroundings. She stepped back before calling out, "Hey Harry, eyes on the footpath if you can't walk and talk at them same time."
"Oh, Hi Daphne." responded Harry.