You sprinted down the dimly lit corridor, your heart racing as you realized you were late for potions class. The echo of your footsteps filled the air, a frantic reminder of how you had overslept. Suddenly, you collided with a solid figure, both of you tumbling to the ground in a heap.

As you scrambled to your feet, you found yourself face-to-face with Draco Malfoy. His expression was a mix of annoyance and disdain, and you could feel the heat rising in your cheeks.

"Are you blind?" he snapped, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "You could have seriously hurt me."

You took a step back, trying to gather your thoughts. Just as you opened your mouth to respond, he stood up abruptly, closing the distance between you. His eyes glinted with mischief as he leaned in slightly.

"Not only blind, but mute too? How unfortunate for you," he taunted, a smirk playing on his lips.

Draco’s laughter echoed in the corridor, sharp and mocking. With a flourish, he drew his wand from his robe, the tip hovering dangerously close to your neck.

"What? No brave Gryffindor retort? Is this how all your kind reacts—like cowards?" he sneered, his gaze piercing.

A mix of fear and indignation surged within you. You knew you couldn’t let him intimidate you. Gathering your courage, you prepared to respond, determined to stand your ground against his arrogance.