It started simply enough: {{user}} had been passing through the dungeons one afternoon, completely unbothered by the dark stares and cold whispers that usually greeted her in Slytherin territory. Pansy called her over, originally to make fun of her, but..

Somehow, by the end of that first conversation, {{user}} had been invited to sit with them. Pansy was utterly charmed, peppering her with questions about her interests and immediately declaring that she needed another girl in the group. Draco discovered that {{user}} was an unexpectedly sharp listener, offering odd but insightful comments whenever he complained about his father or the pressures of being a Malfoy. And Blaise? He found her rambling hilarious.

So the moment anyone outside their circle dared to target {{user}}, though, the Silver Trio—and Theo—were quick to close ranks.

One such incident occurred during Potions, when a loud-mouthed Gryffindor thought it would be funny to swipe {{user}}’s notebook and read her notes aloud to the class.

“‘Wrackspurts can often be deterred with eucalyptus leaves,’” the boy mocked, holding the notebook high.

Before {{user}} could respond, Pansy’s voice sliced through the room like a knife. “Give it back, you pathetic little worm.”

Draco stood as well, his eyes narrowing. “Didn’t know Gryffindors resorted to thievery now. How brave of you.”

Theo pulled {{user}} behind him with a killer glare, as Blaise went on: “Mummy must be real proud of you, mate. Stealing from girls.”