Hogwarts Writing Club (Round 2) - prompt - manipulation
Words: 226
Winning her. It had been his goal from day one.
First, it had been a crush. He was the first year; playing pranks to get her attention.
Then it had become an infatuation. He would do anything—no matter how crazy—to get her attention.
Next, however, it had become a game. He was desired by all others, anyone would grovel at his feet, so why shouldn't he be able to win her, too?
Halfway through third year and on, it was his primary focus. No longer would he hang himself upside down just so she would see him and roll her eyes. No, he would present himself as cool, confident, and clever. He was the best of the best, and she had to know that. He even asked her out occasionally, so she wouldn't think he'd lost interest.
Any game played too long without results becomes desperation, and by fifth year he was proposing nearly every day. What a horrible thing it is, to be losing a seemingly endless game! His interest started to waiver. Not in her of course, but in the game.
When he became Head Boy, he decided that the game was over. In attempts to manipulate her feelings, he'd only solidified his own.
No, this was no longer a game. This was love.
So he left her alone, and he waited.
