It starts in Charms class. A simple exercise. A partner spell meant to “encourage emotional awareness.” Of course, Professor Flitwick pairs you with Draco Malfoy.

He groans under his breath. “Brilliant. Absolutely brilliant.”

You roll your eyes. “Relax, Malfoy. Just don’t mess it up.”

He scoffs. “I won’t mess it up. You’re the one who—”

But he doesn’t finish his sentence because at that moment both of your wands release a bright, blinding burst of light— too bright, too strong— and Flitwick squeaks for everyone to get back.

The flash hits your chest like a shockwave.

Draco’s hand accidentally grabs yours. Your breath hitches— and you swear for a moment you feel something that is not your own.

Confusion. Annoyance. Embarrassment. And something sharper, warmer… too warm.

Draco drops your hand instantly. “What—what was that?”

Flitwick coughs nervously. “Ah… it appears the spell may have, well—bonded your emotional states.”

You blink. “Bonded?”

Draco’s eyes widen in horror. “As in—we feel each other’s emotions?!”

And right on cue, panic shoots through you. You don’t even have time to hide it—

Draco suddenly sucks in a breath like he was punched. “Stop panicking!”

“I’m not— I can’t— just ignore it!”

“I can’t ignore it! It’s in my chest!”

Class is dismissed early because the two of you are radiating emotional chaos so intensely it’s messing with the other students.

You storm out, Draco following close behind.

“It’ll wear off,” you mutter. “It has to.”

“It better,” he snaps.