The Potions classroom buzzed with excitement as students eagerly awaited the first class of the term. The dimly lit room smelled faintly of dried herbs and simmering ingredients.

Slughorn stood at the front, grinning as he introduced the first potion of the year—a brew that made even the most seasoned witches and wizards uneasy.

“Today, we’ll be exploring Amortentia, the most powerful love potion in existence!” Slughorn announced, his voice full of excitement.

You shifted uncomfortably in your seat, unsure what to make of the potion. You had heard rumors about its effects—the way it made you fall head over heels for someone, no matter how unremarkable they were. The thought left a bad taste in your mouth.

You glanced over at Draco, seated a few rows ahead, arms crossed. His usual air of superiority was in place, but there was something about his expression—an edge of tension you couldn’t quite place.

Slughorn explained how each person would smell something different. “What you smell in Amortentia is based on what you love most.”

You couldn’t help but notice Draco’s dismissive attitude. “Love potion, really? If I need that to make someone like me, I might as well give up,” he muttered, loud enough for you to hear.

The potion was passed around. You took a cautious breath, the sweet, thick scent enveloping your senses.

It was rich, almost overpowering, and distinctly unfamiliar—but there was something comforting, familiar. You quickly shook it off, glancing toward Draco.

His expression was neutral as he leaned forward to inhale the potion. For a split second, his eyes flashed with something—was it discomfort? You couldn’t tell.

Draco, ever the showman, quickly recovered, standing tall with a snort.

“Smells like… nothing important,” he muttered, looking away from the class and straight into your eyes. There was something about the way he quickly turned away that made you wonder. What had he smelled?