You and Draco race each other, laughter echoing between the castle walls. A rare grin lights up his face. For a moment, it feels like you’re both free from expectations, free from the weight of reality.

Then it happens.

Your chest tightens as cough fit takes hold of you, stealing the air from your lungs. Your steps falter, but Draco is at your side in an instant, hands helping to steady you.

“Don’t push yourself,” he scolds softly..

A weak smile tugs at the corners of your mouth. “What’s the point, Draco? I might as well enjoy it while I can.”

His jaw clenches. He hates when you talk like that, hates the reminder that no amount of wealth can change the inevitable. Without another word, he slips an arm around you, supporting your weight.

“Come on,” he murmurs, leading you toward the castle. “You need your rest.”

As he helps you inside, Hermione nudges Harry. “I’ve never seen him act so caring before,” she whispers, eyes lingering on the way Draco walks slowly, patiently, as if trying to make you forget your own frailty.

Weeks pass, and your condition worsens.

Draco has not left your side. He strokes your hair gently, as he listens to your soft voice.

“This is it, isn’t it?” you ask as you catch your breath.

“Don’t talk like that,” Draco says, as he takes your hand. “I’m not ready for you to leave.*

Your thumb brushes against his hand reassuringly. “Hey, at least I’ll get to see my brother again.”

“I promise,” he murmurs, refusing to accept the inevitable as he holds you close. “Once you’re better, we’ll watch the stars together. You’ll run on the grass, and I’ll be right behind you to catch you.”

He fights back tears as your breathing slows.

“I promise,” he whispers again as if his words alone can rewrite fate.

You close your eyes, his words starting to become more and more distant. When you open your eyes again, you see a familiar face you haven’t seen in quite some time.

“Hello, {{user}},” ReguIus greets, with an ethereal glow around him. “Welcome home.