Thought this story needed part two. I hope you liked it from Harry's POV.

The first encounter

The sun was high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the countryside estate. With his raven-black hair tousled by the wind, eight-year-old Harry stood beside his godfather, Sirius, watching the equestrian event. His eyes were fixed on a young girl, not much older than himself, riding a majestic horse with an elegance that belied her age. She moved harmoniously with the animal, her blond hair flowing behind her like a banner of grace and freedom. His horse, a spirited chestnut mare named Shadow, was proving to be challenging. Her temper was as wild as her mane, and Harry struggled to keep her under control.

As he guided Shadow along the fence line, his attention drifted back to the girl on the other horse. Harry was captivated. He had never seen anyone ride with such natural skill and finesse.

"Sirius, who is that girl?" Harry called out to his godfather, who was watching him from the shade of an old oak tree, his voice filled with awe and curiosity.

Sirius, a man with a rugged charm and a mischievous twinkle in his eye, followed Harry's gaze. His expression changed subtly, a mix of admiration and something more sombre. "That's Dracona," he said, his tone tinged with a hint of sadness. "She's from the Malfoy family." Sirius paused; Harry watched curiously as he waited for him to finish his thoughts. "And she is my niece; her mother is my sister, well, cousin really, but we grew up as siblings."

Harry's eyes never left Dracona as she completed her routine. "She's amazing," he whispered, more to himself than to Sirius. "I wish I could ride like that. My horse, Shadow, always gets grumpy with me. I've never seen anyone ride like that. I wish I could ride like her."

Sirius sighed, walking over to join Harry by the fence and placed a hand on Harry's shoulder, a serious look in his eyes. " She is indeed talented. Harry, there's something you should know about the Malfoy family. Our families... well, we have a long history, and it's not a friendly one."

Harry turned to Sirius, confusion written on his young face. "But why? She looks nice. I just want to say hello and ask her how she rides so well."

Sirius knelt down to be at eye level with Harry. "I know it doesn't make sense, especially when you're young. But our families have been in a feud for years. Well, yours and theirs. You know how I no longer have contact with the Black family?"

Harry nodded; he did know about his godfather's complicated history with his family. It often made him sad when he saw their faces on the news or television.

"It's complicated, and it's not something you need to worry about now. Just... it's better if you stay away from her." Sirius placed a hand on Harry's shoulder, a gesture both comforting and firm.

Harry's expression was a mix of confusion and disappointment. He couldn't understand why an old feud should stop him from talking to a girl who shared his love for horses. He watched as Dracona expertly guided her horse over a small jump, her laughter floating across the field like music. He kept watching as Dracona dismounted, her face lit up with a bright, innocent smile as she patted her horse.

In that moment, Harry made a silent vow to himself. He would learn to ride as well as Dracona, and one day, he would talk to her, feud or no feud. He wanted to know the girl who danced with horses, who seemed so free and unburdened by the invisible chains of family disputes.

As they left the pasture, Harry glanced back one last time, catching a glimpse of Dracona who was now feeding a carrot or two to her horse. Dracona was a vision of freedom and joy. Her brightness represented something pure and unattainable, a dream that Harry, in his young heart, yearned to reach. He felt a pang of longing, a desire to be part of that joyous scene. But for now, he would keep his distance, holding onto the hope that someday, things might be different.

That evening, as Harry lay in bed, he thought about Dracona and her beautiful white horse. He imagined riding alongside her, free from the burdens of family feuds and expectations. In his dreams, they rode together under the vast, open sky, two souls united by a shared passion, untainted by the adult world's complexities.

Grade 9 Assembly

The Great Hall of Hogwarts was abuzz with excitement and chatter as students from all four houses gathered for the welcoming assembly of Harry's first year in Grade 9. The grandeur of the hall, with its enchanted ceiling mirroring the sky outside, was a sight to behold. The hall now echoed with the chatter of first-year students finding their seats. Beside him, his best friend Ron grumbled about the early morning assembly, but Harry barely heard him, his eyes searching for familiar faces.

As they made their way through the throngs of students, he saw her - the girl with the platinum blond hair that shimmered like moonlight. She was sitting a few rows ahead, her posture perfect, her attention focused on the head boy at the podium. Harry's heart skipped a beat. He was almost certain it was her - the girl he had seen riding the horse years ago, the one who had captivated him with her grace and skill.

He steered Ron towards an empty spot next to her with a subtle nudge. "Come on, let's sit here," Harry whispered to Ron, subtly guiding them toward the row where the girl was seated. Ron, oblivious to Harry's intentions, followed along, grumbling about the length of the assembly and how he'd rather be exploring their school, which was once a castle. Harry tried to focus on the head boy's speech as they sat down, but it was a losing battle. His eyes kept drifting to the girl beside him. She was even more beautiful up close, her features delicate yet strong, exuding an air of quiet confidence.

Ron's whispered jokes about the head boy's overly serious demeanour became a distant murmur as Harry found himself stealing glances at her. He noticed how her eyes occasionally flickered towards the large windows as if longing to be outside, riding her horse through the open fields.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the assembly ended. The students began to rise, and Harry seized his moment. He turned to her, his heart racing, and extended his hand.

"Hi, I'm Harry. Harry Potter," he said.

The girl turned to face him; her grey eyes met his green ones, and there was a flicker of recognition. "I know who you are," she said, her voice soft yet firm. She took his hand, her grip confident. "I'm Dracona. Dracona Malfoy" she introduced herself politely, her voice carrying a hint of something unspoken.

Harry's heart raced. She was indeed the girl from the horse, the same girl he had admired from afar. Dracona Malfoy. The name echoed in his mind, and a connection was finally made. Looking into her eyes, he saw no hint of the rivalry that plagued their families. Instead, he saw the same little girl who had ridden her horse with such freedom and joy. For a brief moment, they just looked at each other, the noise of the hall fading into the background. Harry wanted to say more, to ask her about her horse, about her life, but the words wouldn't come.

Ron, who had been busy packing up his things, looked up. "Malfoy? Any relation to—"

Harry shot Ron a warning glance, silencing him before he could finish. The Malfoy name was well-known; just as the Potters were, but Harry didn't care. Dracona gave him a small, polite smile as the crowd began to move and turned to leave. Harry watched her go, feeling a mix of elation and frustration. All he knew was that the girl he had been intrigued by for years was right here, and she was more than just a name or a family legacy.

As they parted ways, Ron chattering beside him, Harry couldn't help but feel excited. Hogwarts was a place of mysticism and freedom – the only one he'd get until he graduated and had to bear the weight of his family's legacy, but for now, it held another enchanting element – the chance to get to know Dracona Malfoy. The girl on the horse, the girl who had unknowingly captivated his heart, was now a part of his world.

That day began a series of stolen glances and unspoken words. Harry knew he wanted to become friends with this girl, regardless of the feud between their families. He wanted to lend a hand in friendship but just needed to figure out how. There were many in the school who knew what it meant to carry the burden of a legacy family, like the Abbot girl or the Longbottom boy, yet somehow, he had a feeling that Dracona Malfoy would be the one who'd know how he felt the most.

Grade 10: Hogwarts Charity Ball

Hogwarts always had thrown grandeur balls, and the Charity Ball during his 10th grade was no different. Harry had asked Hermione to the ball, more out of convenience than anything else. He wasn't interested in the petty dramas and shallow conversations that seemed to preoccupy most of his classmates. Hermione, always the voice of reason and a steadfast friend, had agreed, and they had planned to have a fun, carefree evening together.

As they entered the grand hall, transformed into a scene from a fairy tale with its twinkling lights and elegant decorations, Harry's gaze inadvertently searched for Dracona. He remembered the incident with Christopher Bulstone, a senior who had rudely demanded Dracona to accompany him to the ball. Christopher Bluestone, a senior known for his arrogance, had practically demanded Dracona to accompany him to the ball, and Harry felt a surge of anger at Christopher's behaviour. Harry had a clear view of the incident as he was perched on one of the branches of the very tree where the incident took place; he was just happy that Dracona hadn't looked up; otherwise, she'd have seen him very close to jumping down to throw Christopher into a headlock. Dracona had handled the situation with grace, but the look of discomfort on her face had stayed with Harry. Christopher's temper flared at her lack of immediate response, leading him to storm off in a huff. Harry had felt a surge of indignation. Dracona, with her quiet dignity, deserved far better.

Hermione looked stunning in her lavender A-line dress, her hair elegantly styled in a Dutch braid with soft curls framing her face. Harry, in a classic black tuxedo, offered her a playful, exaggerated bow and asked her to dance. Hermione's laughter was a bright sound in the grand hall, and they joined the other couples on the dance floor.

As they moved to the music, Harry's eyes wandered across the room, eventually finding Dracona. She was dancing with Cedric Diggory, a recent Hogwarts graduate known for his charm, good looks and sportsmanship. Looks like Dracona had no trouble finding a decent date.

Dracona was stunning, her mahogany dress accentuating her slender figure, her hair in a French braid cascading down her back. She moved with a natural grace that made her stand out even in the crowded ballroom. Harry watched as Cedric twirled her, and for a moment, Dracona's face lit up with a genuine smile. It was a rare sight, and Harry felt a warmth spread through him. Dracona's smile had the power to light up the room, to make the world seem a little brighter. Dracona's smiles were rare and seeing her so happy was both pleasing and perhaps a little heart-wrenching, although Harry didn't want to ponder as to why that was.

Hermione's voice brought him back to the moment. She was commenting on Ron's clumsy attempts to flirt with his date, Lavender Brown. He glanced over to see Ron, his face red, tripping over his words and his feet. Harry chuckled, watching his friend's awkward but earnest efforts. Harry snickered, shaking his head as he and Hermione spied on their ginger friend. It was typical Ron, earnest and embarrassed.

Harry and Hermione enjoyed themselves as the evening progressed, laughing and dancing with their friends. But Harry's eyes kept straying to Dracona. He admired her from afar, respecting the invisible boundary that lay between them. Their paths destined to run parallel but never seemed to cross. Yet, there was something about her that drew him in, a sense of connection that he couldn't quite explain. He knew their families' history made any form of friendship complicated, if not impossible, but in his heart, he couldn't help but feel a pull towards her.

Grade 11: Unexpected Partnership

The day Professor Litwig announced the physics project partners, Harry felt a jolt of surprise. He was paired with Dracona Malfoy. Until that moment, their interactions had been limited to fleeting glances and unspoken words. Their teachers, aware of the longstanding feud between their families, had always carefully navigated to keep them apart. But Professor Litwig, with her unconventional teaching methods and her peculiar fondness for sloths, seemed indifferent to such historical complexities.

Harry felt a jolt of surprise and a rush of excitement. He glanced across the room at Dracona, who looked equally shocked. Their eyes met briefly, a silent acknowledgment of the unexpected turn of events. Professor Litwig had thrown that caution to the wind and placed them together. Harry turned to look at Ron, who looked at Harry in horror. "I'm sorry" he mouthed. Harry shook his head, smiling; he was not.

Their task was to build a miniature rollercoaster for a marble, measuring its speed and acceleration. It was a challenging assignment requiring creativity and a solid understanding of physics principles. Professor Litwig suggested they use the arts lab for their project, and Professor Hawks, always supportive of interdisciplinary learning, readily agreed.

As they started working on the project, Harry felt an initial awkwardness. Harry and Dracona stood by a table scattered with papers, pencils, and a few physics textbooks. The air was thick with a mix of anticipation and awkwardness.

"So, um," Harry cleared his throat, "we should probably start by outlining the basic design for the rollercoaster, right?"

Dracona nodded, sitting a bit stiffly. "Yes, that sounds like a good starting point. Maybe we could... focus on the loop design first? It's crucial for calculating the acceleration."

Harry picked up a pencil and started doodling on a piece of paper. "Right, loops, I was thinking something like this?" He passed his notebook to show her a rough sketch of a loop.

Dracona looked critically at the drawing, "That's a good start, but we need to consider the marble's speed. If the loop is too tight, it might not make it through."

Harry nodded, "Yeah, we don't want our marble to crash on its first run. That would be a bit embarrassing."

Dracona hummed, "We should also think about the height. The higher the starting point, the more speed it will gain."

Grinning, Harry nodded. He slid his notebook back towards him to add a tall ramp to the sketch. "How about a ramp which looks similar to this?"

Relaxing herself a little more, Dracona responds, "That looks good. And we'll need to calculate the potential and kinetic energy at different points."

"Oh?" Harry grinned, "Sounds like we're going to need a lot of calculations. Good thing I've got my trusty calculator."

Rolling her eyes, Dracona retorted, "and here I thought I was the only one who carried a calculator everywhere."

Harry laughed. Between physics, chemistry, and math, all eleventh graders carried calculators everywhere. Hermione was the only person who didn't, and she was a certified genius … or at least Harry thought she was. He had to get her tested. "You do?" Harry replied sarcastically.

Dracona nodded solemnly, "Of course, you never know when you'll need to solve a random physics problem … or a chemistry one. After all, Professor Snape might just emerge from the shadows and ask me to solve a problem for extra credit and imagine if I didn't have my calculator for that. I would lose extra credits, the horror!"

Harry laughed. It did seem like something Professor Snape would do, actually.

Giving Harry a soft chuckle, Dracona continued, "So, back to our rollercoaster. We should probably start with some basic physics equations."

Harry nodded, "Right. Let's do it. By the way, I skipped lunch, mind if we take a break in an hour and grab some instant noodles? Plus we can use the cups to help build the ramps."

Dracona's eyes lit up, "I love instant noodles! That sounds great."

The initial awkwardness faded as they dived into their work, the conversation flowing more naturally. They talk about physics but also about their favourite noodle flavours and Hogwart's life. While it was not the start of the friendship that Harry had hoped to gain when he was eight, it was a start.

As they worked together over the following weeks, Harry discovered a side of Dracona he had never seen. She was intelligent and insightful, with a sharp wit that matched his own. They challenged each other's ideas, pushing the project to new heights. The rollercoaster they built was a testament to their combined skills, a complex structure of loops and turns that perfectly demonstrated the physics principles they had been studying. However, Harry never could build up the courage to steer the conversation about their families, or how he'd watch her ride her horse once upon a time.

Grade 12: Senior Year Shenanigans

Senior year at Hogwarts was supposed to be Harry Potter's grand finale - a year of freedom and fun before stepping into the responsibilities awaiting him as the Potter heir. He had plans – pranks to pull, Quidditch games to win (a game invented by past Hogwarts students which was remarkably like football, but with three balls instead of one), and memories to make, but as it often happens at Hogwarts, things didn't go quite as expected.

It all started when Mira Longbottom, a family friend and the younger sister of his classmate, Neville Longbottom, approached Harry with a peculiar request. Mira was in a bind. Her grandmother, the formidable Augusta Longbottom, was attempting to set her up with Jackson Monty, a match Mira was desperate to avoid. In a twist of fate, Neville approached Harry, all but begging him to pretend to date Mira to ward off her grandmother's matchmaking schemes.

Harry was initially hesitant and torn. He had no interest in fake dating, but he empathized with Mira's plight. He had never dated anyone, let alone pretend to date. But the thought of his younger sister, Rose, being in a similar situation swayed him. He knew too well that no one, not even the bravest students at Hogwarts, dared to cross Augusta Longbottom. Besides, Augusta Longbottom was not a woman to be trifled with, and the only way to keep her off Mira's back was to present her with the option of someone better than Jackson Monty. Reluctantly, Harry agreed to the charade, finding himself in the uncharted territory of a fake relationship.

Thus began Harry's first foray into the world of dating, albeit a fabricated one. He and Mira put on a convincing show, attending events together and sharing laughs. It was all an act, but Harry couldn't deny the ease of Mira's company. They had grown up together, and she was never annoying. She was comical and bright and understood the pressures of family expectations. He actually found himself having deep conversations with her, as she shared her dreams of becoming a veterinarian. Harry also held a love of animals, his own home could be counted as a zoo with the countless animals his mother and himself seemed to be rescuing.

Despite the unexpected turn his final year had taken, Harry found himself enjoying the ruse more than he'd anticipated, especially compared to the previous year's escapade of accidentally blowing up Professor Snape's chemistry classroom - a dare gone wrong courtesy of Fred and George Weasley, Ron's mischievous older twin brothers. It was a prank that went down in Hogwarts history, earning him a mix of admiration and a stern reprimand … well, sort of. While Professor Snape suspected that it was Harry, Ron, and Hermione who had blown up one of his labs, he could not find proof, which resulted in a very stern lecture and his mother sending Professor Snape baskets of baked goods to soothe his anger. It helped that his mom was best friends with his chemistry professor, or he'd never be accepted back into the chem lab for grade 12.

One disappointment for Harry was that Professor Litwig, his favourite teacher known for her eccentric love for sloths, was assigned to teach science to grades 9 and 10 instead of the senior physics class. This meant he wouldn't be partnered with Dracona Malfoy again, a partnership that had unexpectedly turned into one of the most rewarding experiences of his high school life. Harry missed the intellectual challenge and the subtle camaraderie he had shared with Dracona in those classes. Their brief partnership had sparked a connection he couldn't quite shake off.

Harry found himself often catching glimpses of Dracona in the hallways or during shared class periods. Their interactions were limited to brief exchanges and shared glances, but each encounter left Harry wondering about the possibilities that lay beyond the walls of Hogwarts. He noticed how she had grown more confident, her presence commanding yet graceful. Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of pride mixed with a tinge of regret for the distance that still lay between them.

As the year progressed, Harry found himself enjoying Mira's company more than he had anticipated. She was witty, kind, and understanding, often making him laugh with her quirky sense of humor. When Jackson Monty was reported that he had gone abroad for his studies, Mira's grandmother finally relented, as did Harry's pretend relationship with Mira. Harry and Mira returned to being just friends. It was a relief, given that Hermione and Rose, his sister, had figured out the real status of their relationship, and both had given him disapproving looks.

In the midst of the chaos and fun, Harry often found himself thinking about Dracona. Their paths had crossed in unexpected ways, each encounter leaving a lasting impression. As the school year ended, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of loss.

Senior year passed in a blur of studies, fake dates, and the occasional rule-breaking adventure with Ron and Hermione. Before Harry knew it, graduation was upon them. As he stood in his cap and gown, surrounded by his classmates, he felt a mix of excitement and nostalgia. He had made it through Hogwarts, but as he looked around at his friends and at Dracona, who was chatting with her own group, he realized that this was just the beginning. The real world awaited, with all its challenges and opportunities.

Ivywell University

The towering gates of Ivywell University loomed before Harry Potter, marking the threshold of a new chapter in his life. As he stepped onto the campus, the weight of his family legacy pressed heavily upon his shoulders. His grandfather, Charles Potter, had already imparted a stern lecture about the responsibilities and scrutiny that came with being the Potter heir. Every action, every decision Harry made would now be under the watchful eye of the public and the press.

Harry had been accepted into an accelerated Ivy League program for law, a path meticulously charted out by his family. Unlike the standard seven to eight-year track, this program would see him complete his degree and the bar exam in just six years. It was a fast track to a future as an attorney, a future Harry hadn't chosen for himself but had accepted as his destiny. It was a path laid out for him, steeped in expectations and devoid of personal choice. Harry, however, was determined to make the best of it, to find his own way within the confines of his predetermined future.

But Harry wasn't the only one from a prominent family in this program. Dracona Malfoy had also been accepted. Their parallel paths were a source of discomfort for Harry's grandfather, who viewed the Malfoys as rivals in both business and social standing.

Dracona, for her part, seemed to embrace her role with a grace and elegance that Harry couldn't help but admire. She carried the weight of her family name with an effortless poise, navigating the complexities of her future with a calm determination. It was a stark contrast to Harry's own struggles with the expectations placed upon him. Harry couldn't help but admire her poise and determination. She was a formidable presence, and her reputation as a brilliant student preceded her.

Harry's classmates were a diverse group, many of them children of prominent figures in society. He found himself thrust into a world of networking and socializing, where every handshake and smile was a potential step towards a future alliance or business deal. Harry did his part to charm and engage, but the constant performance wore on him. He longed for genuine connections, for friendships not mired in expectations and ulterior motives.

As he navigated the bustling campus, Harry quickly realized that his journey here would be starkly different from his school days. Although Dracona Malfoy was in the same program, their schedules hardly overlapped, their interactions limited to brief, occasional encounters. It was a relief in some ways, easing the pressure of their families' rivalry, but also a reminder of the invisible barriers that still stood between them.

As they both embarked on their legal studies, the expectations were clear: they were to excel academically and prepare to enter their respective family businesses. The unspoken rivalry between them was palpable, yet Harry found himself intrigued by Dracona's ability to navigate the pressures with such elegance. They were expected to enter their respective family businesses upon graduation, setting the stage for a lifetime of competition. Yet, in the hallowed halls of Ivywell, away from the direct influence of their families, Harry wondered if there might be a chance for them to see each other not as Potters and Malfoys but simply as Harry and Dracona.

Their interactions were few, as their schedules rarely intersected. The program was demanding, with a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge even the brightest minds. Harry found himself immersed in a world of legal theories, case studies, and endless readings. The pace was relentless, but he kept up, driven by a sense of duty and the desire not to let his family down. But the few times they crossed paths, Harry sensed a mutual understanding, a shared experience of navigating a world filled with expectations and predetermined paths. In Dracona's eyes, he sometimes caught a glimpse of the same questions and doubts that often plagued his own thoughts.

Despite the competition, Harry couldn't shake off a sense of respect for Dracona. She was not just a rival but a peer facing the same pressures and expectations. Their shared experience in this elite program created an unspoken bond, a mutual understanding of the burdens they carried.

In his quest for normalcy, Harry tried dating. He hoped to find someone who could see past the Potter heir, someone with whom he could share his true self. But the facade of perfection was exhausting. The relationships felt superficial, built on the allure of his name rather than who he was as a person. After a string of unfulfilling encounters, Harry decided to stop dating altogether, focusing instead on his studies and the few genuine friendships he had managed to cultivate.

He often thought of his best friends. Hermione had pursued her passion, studying to become an aerospace engineer with dreams of joining NASA. Harry had no doubt she would achieve her goals; her brilliance and determination knew no bounds. Ron Weasley, ever the pragmatic one, had gone into business management, planning to complete his MBA, much to both his and Hermione's surprise. Ron hated studying with a passion, but he had dreams of joining his brother's business to show his worth. They were both carving out their own paths, driven by their passions and aspirations.

Harry, on the other hand, felt the heavy hand of obligation guiding his every step. He didn't yearn to be an attorney, but it was the role expected of him, the role he had been groomed for since birth. As he delved deeper into his studies, the reality of his future became increasingly clear. He was to be a cog in the vast machine of the Potter legacy, his personal desires secondary to the family's reputation and business interests.

By his fourth year, Harry had already begun working at the family company, juggling his academic responsibilities with the demands of the business world. It was a gruelling schedule, but he managed it with the same resilience and determination that had seen him through his years at Hogwarts.

To his lack of surprise, Dracona had also started working in her family's business. Their paths, parallel yet separate, continued to intersect in the most unexpected ways. They were both heirs to powerful legacies, both bound by the expectations and responsibilities that came with their names.

As the years at Ivywell University passed, Harry watched as Dracona flourished, her name often mentioned in discussions about top students. He, too, made his mark, his name synonymous with the Potter legacy of excellence. Yet, amidst the accolades and achievements, Harry couldn't help but feel a pang of longing for a different life, one where his choices were his own.

The world of Ivywell University was a microcosm of the larger society they were destined to influence. Here, in the hallowed halls and manicured lawns of the campus, Harry and Dracona were being molded into future leaders, attorneys who would one day shape the legal landscape.

As Harry moved through his university years, he often found himself reflecting on the choices that had led him here. He wondered about the roads not taken, the dreams not pursued. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of obligations and expectations, Harry held onto a sliver of hope. A hope that one day, he might find a way to blend his duty with his desires, to carve out a space where he could be both Harry Potter and just Harry.

Crossroads of Faith

As graduation from Ivywell University loomed, Harry Potter found himself in a complex web of emotions and obligations. Amidst the academic pressures and the looming responsibilities of his family legacy, Harry had found an unexpected ally in Dracona Malfoy. Their friendship, forged in the unlikely setting of work parties and corporate gatherings, had become a source of comfort and understanding in a world where both felt the heavy weight of their family names.

Harry often sought out Dracona's company at these events. Together, they shared sarcastic quips about the absurdities they observed, finding humour in the pretentiousness that often surrounded them. Dracona, usually so composed and reserved, would let her guard down with Harry, offering scathing remarks on the latest high-society rumours, comments she would never dare utter in any other company. Her laughter, quiet and genuine, was a sound Harry had come to cherish.

One of Harry's more endearing roles at these events was his impromptu dances with the elderly guests. He never could refuse their requests, and Dracona often watched him with a quiet amusement, her eyes sparkling with mirth. These moments, though simple, were a testament to the kindness and warmth that lay beneath Harry's public persona.

Their bond was an oasis in the midst of their predestined paths, a friendship that transcended the historic feud between their families. But this semblance of normalcy was shattered by a sudden announcement from Harry's grandfather, Charles Potter.

Harry was to be married to Eloise Sharma, a decision driven not by love or choice, but by a debt owed to her family. Charles explained that years ago, he had been in a dire situation, and Raj Sharma, Eloise's grandfather, had come to his rescue. Now, with Raj Sharma gone, his son Cassian Sharma was calling in that debt. The Sharma family business was struggling, and a marriage between Harry and Eloise would not only settle the old debt but also provide a much-needed financial lifeline to the Sharmas.

The news was a devastating blow to Harry. He protested, as did his parents, but Charles's decision was final. The marriage was not just a union of two people; it was a strategic alliance, a merger of powerful families. Harry's personal feelings were secondary to the greater good of the Potter legacy.

In the midst of this turmoil, Harry's thoughts turned to Dracona. She was the one person who had come to understand him, the one person with whom he had shared genuine moments of connection and laughter. But she was also the one person he could never be with, bound as they were to their rival families. Their friendship, already a defiance of their families' rivalry, could never evolve into anything more.

The realization hit Harry with a crushing weight. He had always admired Dracona, from the first time he saw her riding her horse with a grace and confidence that had captivated him. Over the years, that admiration had deepened into something more, something he scarcely allowed himself to acknowledge. But now, faced with the prospect of a loveless marriage, those feelings surged to the forefront of his mind. Harry's heart ached at the thought of marrying someone he did not love, of living a life that felt like a well-orchestrated play. He longed for the freedom to choose his own path, to follow his heart. But the weight of family duty and the expectations of his lineage were heavy chains around his neck.

Harry wanted to refuse the marriage to Eloise. He wanted to choose his own path, to follow his heart. But the stakes were too high. His refusal would not only dishonour the debt his family owed but also jeopardize the future of the Potter legacy.

As graduation approached, Harry found himself at a crossroads. On one path lay duty and obligation, a life mapped out for him by the expectations of others. On the other, a life of his own choosing, a life with Dracona, however impossible that seemed.

In the quiet moments, Harry wondered what might have been if their families had not been at odds if he had been free to follow his heart. But in their world, bound by legacy and duty, such dreams remained just that – dreams.

Meeting Eloise Sharma

The day Harry Potter met Eloise Sharma was etched with tension and unease. The meeting, arranged by their families, was meant to be an opportunity for them to get to know each other before their impending marriage. The meeting between Harry and Eloise was arranged in the private gardens of the Potter estate, a setting that was both beautiful and bittersweet. Harry walked towards the appointed spot with a heavy heart, his mind a tumult of emotions. He was about to meet the woman he was expected to marry, a stranger bound to him by the debts and decisions of their forefathers.

Eloise was already there, waiting. As Harry approached, he took in her appearance. She was striking, with long, dark hair that cascaded down her back and a poise that spoke of strength and self-assurance. Yet, as he drew closer, he noticed the tension in her posture, the set of her jaw. This was not a meeting she was looking forward to. Eloise's reaction to Harry was immediate and visceral. She disliked him on sight, her disdain palpable in the air between them. When they were finally left alone, Eloise wasted no time in making her feelings known. She launched into a passionate tirade, outlining in no uncertain terms why this marriage should not happen. She spoke of her dreams, her ambitions, and her desire for a life not dictated by the whims of her family. As she spoke, Harry couldn't help but be reminded of his mother, Lily Potter. Eloise's fiery spirit and refusal to sugarcoat her words were traits Lily had been known for.

Harry listened quietly, observing her as she spoke. Eloise was undeniably beautiful. Her arguments well-articulated, and her conviction clear. She was not a woman to be underestimated or silenced. He saw in Eloise a reflection of his own frustrations and desires for freedom.

As her rant reached its crescendo, Harry finally spoke, his voice gentle yet firm. He asked if she had finished, his calm demeanour taking Eloise by surprise. She nodded, her fiery energy momentarily subdued and a flicker of curiosity in her eyes.

Harry then shared his own perspective. He explained that he, too, did not wish for this marriage. The life he envisioned for himself was far removed from the one being forced upon him. But, he continued, the Potters always honoured their debts. This marriage was more than a union between two people; it was a fulfillment of a longstanding obligation, a duty he could not simply ignore.

He wanted to tell her about Dracona, about the love he harboured for someone he could never be with. But he held back, knowing that such a confession would only complicate matters further. His goal was not to create more scandal but to find a way to navigate this impossible situation with as little damage as possible. His feelings for Dracona were a painful secret he carried, a longing that had no place in the pragmatic decision that lay before him.

Eloise listened, her initial anger giving way to a reluctant understanding. She was no stranger to the burdens of family expectations and the sacrifices they demanded. Like Harry, she was trapped in a situation not of her making, her personal desires overshadowed by the needs of her family.

As they talked, an unspoken agreement formed between them. They would go through with the marriage, but it would be a partnership of convenience, a mutual understanding to fulfill their families' wishes while maintaining their own individual lives as much as possible. They were two individuals caught in the same web of duty and obligation, forced to make the best of an unwanted situation. They agreed to present a united front to fulfill their families' expectations while maintaining their individuality.

The conversation ended with a sense of resigned acceptance. Harry and Eloise shook hands, not as future husband and wife, but as allies in a shared predicament. As Harry walked away from the meeting, he felt a strange sense of camaraderie with Eloise. Harry laughed quietly to himself; it seemed that again he was stuck in a façade of a relationship with no basis, just a sense of duty. They were both trapped by the same chains of duty and expectation, both yearning for a freedom that seemed just out of reach.

But as Harry left Eloise, his heart heavy with unspoken words and unfulfilled dreams, he couldn't help but wonder about the path not taken, about a life where he could follow his heart without the constraints of legacy and duty. The path ahead was uncertain and filled with challenges and compromises. But in that moment, Harry knew that he and Eloise would face it together, united by their shared desire to one day break free from the roles they had been forced to play. In another world, he might have been free to pursue his love for Dracona, to live a life defined by his own choices. But in this world, he was Harry Potter, the heir to a legacy that demanded sacrifice and obedience, and he had a role to play, a debt to honour.

A Wedding of Appearances

The wedding of Harry Potter and Eloise Sharma was nothing short of a spectacle, a grand affair that was the talk of high society. One of the Potter estates was transformed into a vision of elegance and opulence, with flowers, lights, and decorations adorning every corner. Guests from the most prominent families arrived in their finest attire, eager to witness the union of two powerful houses.

Eloise was indeed a vision as she walked down the aisle. Her saree was exquisite, a masterpiece of design that accentuated her beauty and grace. She carried herself with a poise that belied the turmoil beneath the surface. To the onlookers, she was the perfect bride, a fitting match for the Potter heir.

Harry, standing at the altar, looked every bit the dashing groom. His smile was practiced, his demeanour calm and composed. Yet, beneath the surface, his emotions were a whirlwind of resignation and longing. He liked Eloise, respected her even, but his heart belonged to another.

As the guests arrived, murmurs of admiration and envy filled the air. Harry's friends and family were there too, their faces a mix of happiness and concern. His family, though harbouring reservations about the forced nature of the nuptials, had come to accept the situation. Harry had convinced them, somewhat untruthfully, that he had grown to like Eloise enough to marry her. While he did like Eloise, his feelings for her were platonic, akin to the bond he shared with Hermione Granger. But unlike Hermione, with whom he could envision a romantic future under different circumstances, his relationship with Eloise was firmly rooted in friendship and mutual understanding.

As the ceremony proceeded, Harry's thoughts drifted to Dracona Malfoy. She was there among the guests, her presence a constant reminder of what could have been. They had shared a connection, a bond that had grown in the most unexpected of circumstances. But now, as he stood there exchanging vows with Eloise, that connection seemed like a distant dream. The ceremony was a blend of tradition and grandeur, with eloquent vows and heartfelt speeches. As Harry and Eloise exchanged rings and were pronounced husband and wife, the crowd erupted in applause, celebrating the union of two influential families.

The reception that followed was a lavish affair, with music, dancing, and a feast fit for royalty. Harry found himself performing the role of the happy groom, smiling for cameras, and engaging in polite conversations. But his heart wasn't in it. His mind was elsewhere, lost in thoughts of what could have been.

Harry and Eloise danced their first dance as husband and wife, moving gracefully to the melody of a romantic song. The lyrics spoke of love and devotion, a poignant contrast to the reality of their relationship. As he twirled Eloise around the dance floor, Harry's gaze inadvertently found Dracona's across the hall. The music swelled around them, the lyrics echoing, "Look, I have also fallen in love. Yes, I have also fallen in love," a cruel irony to his situation. In that brief moment, their eyes met, and a myriad of unspoken words passed between them.

Harry wondered if Dracona had ever harbored feelings for him, if she ever saw him as more than just a friend or a rival. He pondered over the countless what-ifs, the possibilities of a different life where they could have explored the depths of their feelings without the constraints of their family legacies.

The newlyweds moved with a grace that belied the complexity of their relationship, perfectly in sync with the rhythm of the music, a picture of marital bliss.

It was during this dance, amidst the swirl of melodies and soft lights, that Eloise leaned in and asked softly, "Who is she?"

Harry, taken aback by the question, faltered for a moment. "What do you mean?" he asked, maintaining his composure.

Eloise's eyes met his, steady and knowing. "Who is she? The girl who has your heart? She's here, isn't she?"

Harry was momentarily stunned. He had always prided himself on his ability to maintain a poker face, a skill honed through his legal training. Yet, here was Eloise, seeing through the facade he had carefully constructed. As they continued to dance, gliding effortlessly across the floor, he realized there was no point in denying the truth.

"Your eyes are quite expressive, if one knows where to look," she said softly. Eloise's observation about his expressive eyes brought a wry smile to his face.

Harry attempted to deflect with humour. "And you know where to look?"

"I do," she replied, her voice tinged with a sadness that mirrored his own.

There was a pause, a moment of silent understanding, before Eloise asked again, "Who is she?"

Harry scanned the hall, his eyes finally resting on Dracona. She was walking away from the hall, her platinum blonde hair cascading down her back, a vision of elegance and grace. He couldn't bring himself to say her name, but he nodded subtly in her direction.

Eloise followed his line of sight and then gently turned them so she could see. "I can't see her face, but that looks like Dracona Malfoy," she said, her voice barely audible over the music.

Harry looked away, a mix of emotions swirling within him. He felt a pang of guilt, a sense of loss, and a deep-seated longing. Eloise's next words were a whisper, filled with empathy and understanding. "I'm sorry."

At that moment, Harry realized the depth of Eloise's perception. She had not only seen through his facade but had also understood the pain and longing that lay beneath. It was a poignant realization that they were both trapped in a situation neither of them had chosen. Harry and Eloise reached a new level of understanding in their shared secret. The dance continued, but the atmosphere had shifted. There was a new understanding between them, a silent acknowledgment of the unspoken truths. They were bound by duty and obligation, yet in that bond, they had found a kind of companionship, a shared experience of sacrifice and lost opportunities.

Eloise's acknowledgment of his feelings for Dracona was a testament to her perceptiveness and her own sense of resignation to the roles they had been forced to play. It was a moment of poignant honesty, a rare glimpse into the vulnerabilities they both harboured.

As the song ended and they parted, there was a mutual respect in their eyes. They were partners in a journey neither had wanted, but they would navigate it together, each carrying their own hidden sorrows and unfulfilled desires.

The wedding reception carried on, the guests oblivious to the quiet exchange that had taken place on the dance floor. Harry and Eloise played their parts, smiling and thanking their guests, but both were acutely aware of the unspoken bond that had formed between them.

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