For Hogwarts

Decorating the Christmas Tree: frost

Advent Calendar: Day 1, write about a countdown

Jingle Bells: "My Only Wish For (This Year)- Draco Malfoy

Amber's Attic: Major Arcana, Death: Write about someone letting go of the past to give themselves a better future

Count Your Buttons: CharlieDraco

Word Count: 345

Draco stands at the window, eyes fixed upon the frost that clings to the glass. Around him, the other workers at the dragon reservation drink and cheer, but he isn't in the mood for festivities. He's only here because the idea of being alone in his room doesn't sound particularly enjoyable.

Part of him misses England. His parents always threw prestigious parties where only the best and most influential families were allowed. But that's also why he's glad he's in Romania now. After the war, he had been forced to come to terms with the fact that his life had been a mess. He'd made terrible choices, and Romania has given him a chance to let go of them and rediscover himself.

"Nearly midnight," Charlie says, coming up next to him and offering him a glass of champagne. "Here's to a new year."

"A better year."

Maybe he wants to be by himself, but he doesn't mind Charlie's company. It's almost funny. He's spent so many years looking at the Weasleys like they're filth, but Charlie Weasley has become his comfort. It's amazing how the aftermath of war can change everything.

"A better year," Charlie echoes in agreement before sipping his champagne and making a face. "This stuff is too sweet."

Draco chuckles. "You'll get used to it. You're adaptable."

"Nope. I prefer a good Scotch, but Zoelie says champagne is traditional."

"Ten! Nine!"

A new year is approaching. Draco listens to the chorus of voices counting down the final seconds.

"Six!"

There's another tradition, one more intimate than champagne. He's followed this tradition before. Why does he want to share it with Charlie now?

"Three! Two! One!"

Around them, he hears the cheers. "Happy New Year!" Confetti falls.

Draco stands on his tiptoes, pressing a quick kiss to the other man's lips. Charlie stares at him, eyes wide but a smile on his lips.

"Now, that's a tradition I can get behind," he chuckles. He wraps an arm around Draco, and they watch the snow fall through the frosted glass. "Happy New Year, Draco."