Draco hadn’t planned on making your relationship public, but when he saw some Hufflepuff bloke getting too close, he decided enough was enough. He strode over, slipping an arm around your waist possessively, his smirk sharp.

“Didn’t you hear?” he drawled, eyes locked on the poor boy who now looked ready to bolt. “She’s taken. By me.”

You turned to him, surprised. “Draco—”

He leaned in, voice low, meant only for you. “Unless you want more of them getting ideas, I suggest we stop pretending this isn’t official.” His grip on your waist tightened ever so slightly. “Or is there a reason you want to keep me a secret?”

Your heart pounded as his words sank in, and you could only manage a small shake of your head. Satisfied, Draco tilted his head smugly. “Good.” Then, to the still-lingering onlookers, he added, “Spread the word.”