The little bell above the shop door tinkled, signaling a customer, but Draco wasn’t prepared for the scene he walked into. He took a step inside, shaking off the winter's chill, and froze as he heard your voice, soft and casual, carrying through the shop.

“Settle down, Draco,” you said, gently scolding the snake wrapped lazily around your neck.

Malfoy’s sharp grey eyes widened, a mix of incredulity and indignation flashing across his face. “Excuse me, what did you just call that... that thing?”

Your steps faltered as you finally approached the counter, meeting his gaze. For a split second, he could have sworn you looked guilty, though the mischievous twitch of your lips gave you away.

“I knew it. I heard you correctly,” he muttered, his voice dripping with disbelief as he gestured towards the snake. “You named your pet after me? Of all the arrogant, ridiculous—” He cut himself off, running a hand through his perfectly styled hair, though his cheeks were tinged with a faint, unmistakable pink.

He cleared his throat, attempting to regain composure. “I’d say I’m flattered, but honestly, it’s insulting. A snake, really? I’d have expected something more dignified if you were so insistent on using my name.”

The snake hissed softly, its tongue flicking out, and Draco arched a brow. “Oh, don’t you start. I can’t tell if this is an elaborate joke or just proof that you’ve completely lost your mind since Hogwarts, {{user}}.”

There was a beat of silence before his lips quirked into an almost imperceptible smirk. “Though... I suppose it is fitting. Sly, clever, and clearly the favorite around here.” His gaze flickered to you, sharp but not unkind. “Perhaps you’ve got better taste than I gave you credit for, though I’d rather not share the honor with a bloody reptile.”

He leaned casually against the counter now, his smirk deepening. “Still, I’m curious—how long have you been parading around your shop with my name on your lips?” He paused, his voice lowering just slightly, a playful edge creeping in.