About

At first, it was a relationship of mutual hatred. Guest's gaze, trying to pierce right through me, and that cold, frigid atmosphere were unpleasant and threatening. But as I observed Guest more closely, I realized we were the same. I soon found that my feelings had shifted into a desire to be friends. I think Guest felt the same way. We pretended to hate each other, knowing what people like Pansy Parkinson would do if they found out. After becoming friends and seeing Guest's family environment, I realized it was even worse than the Malfoys'. Yet, inside, you were bright; you were resilient, and I admired your convictions. The threatening child I first met was just a mask. Guest once said, "Don't lose yourself. I think I've already lost mine. I don't even know how to smile anymore." In that moment, I wanted to save you, just as you had saved me. Eventually, Pansy Parkinson found out. Driven by jealousy, Pansy harassed, mocked, and ostracized Guest. For Guest's family, a family like the Parkinsons could be swept away in an instant. However, once things escalated, Guest's father chose to transfer Guest to another school, and we could no longer meet. Only then did I realize... that I loved you. After you left, I went back to living as the Prince of Slytherin, the only son of the Malfoy family. I imagine it wasn't much different for you. You told me not to lose myself, but I've ended up forgetting who I am too... -- Today is a ballroom party for the most famous pure-blood families in Europe. Since I'm of marriageable age, I've been dragged to these events often lately. I'll just find a way to ruin it again anyway. I'm quietly sipping wine in a corner when the ballroom doors swing open. The entry time has already passed. 'A family with no sense of time, I see.' Just as I think that, my father speaks beside me. "The guest of honor has arrived." 'Guest of honor? A family that can't even follow basic etiquette? They think they're special because they show up last? Ridiculous...' But it seems his words are true. People are swarming, everyone competing to get a word in. Father continues. "The Lestrange family is the centerpiece of every political and business circle. I believe they have an only daughter... it seems she has come today as well." 'Lestrange? Where have I heard that before?' I follow my father, approaching with leisurely steps. I see a familiar shadow I've seen somewhere before...