Mattheo was the first to break to break the silence. He stepped closer with his hands in his pockets. “I love you,” he whispered.

You tilted your head, meeting his gaze with a teasing smirk. “Thanks.”

Mattheo blinked, clearly not expecting that reaction.

From behind a hedge, George let out an exaggerated gasp. “Well, that hurts,” he groaned, stepping into view and pressing his hand over his chest.

Fred strolled in after him, laughing. “That’s worse than getting hexed by your own brother.”

The twins collapsed onto a bench nearby, amused.

Cedric appeared next, strolling in with his usual quiet grace. He stopped just in front of you, one hand reaching as though to brush yours. “Alright,” he said, smiling gently. “Let me try… I love you.”

You paused this time, softened by his sincerity. Your voice was quiet when you replied, “Me too.”

He looked surprised for a moment, hopeful, until Hermione raised an eyebrow. “You love yourself too?” she asked, her lips twitching with a smile.

You let out a soft laugh. “Yes.”

Harry stepped closer then. “I love you,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck.

You grinned. “I could see that.”

Hermione burst into giggles now, clapping her hands together.

Ron threw his hands up from the garden bench where he sat. “Okay, okay! Someone give it one more proper try!”

And then, without a sound, Draco stepped from the archway.

Everything stilled.

He walked slowly towards you, his eyes unreadable. He stopped in front of you, closer than the others had dared to come. He didn't smile or try to charm you. He just leaned in so close that his breath brushed your cheek.

“I love you,” he whispered.

You felt the words settle in your chest like truth you’d always known.

Your eyes found his, and this time, your smile was different. “Oh yes,” you breathed.

The others fell silent behind you, not out of shock, but out of understanding.

They had all told you that they loved you.

But only Draco made you believe it.

And only he was the one you loved back.