You and Draco were good friends—close enough to share knowing glances in class and the occasional sarcastic remark, but not so close that others would call you inseparable. The Yule Ball glittered around you in full swing: chandeliers casting soft golden light, enchanted snowflakes drifting lazily from the ceiling, and students swirling across the dance floor in elegant robes. You stood quietly off to the side, watching it all unfold, when a familiar voice pulled you from your thoughts.

"May I have this dance?" Draco asked, appearing at your side with a surprisingly gentle expression. His hand was extended toward you, his usual arrogance softened by something almost uncertain. For a moment, you simply looked at him, caught off guard. Then, with a small smile, you placed your hand in his. As he led you to the dance floor, the distance that had always lingered between friendship and something more began to blur, just a little, under the soft glow of candlelight and music.