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DRACO STOOD AT THE entrance of his home, the familiar scent of polished wood and lavender wafting through the air.
Today was a milestone; Mia had gone to Hogwarts, and while he was proud, an unexpected wave of loneliness washed over him.
It was strange to feel the absence of her laughter and energy that filled the house.
As he made his way toward his room, the doorbell chimed, cutting through the silence. He paused, wondering who it could be.
“Coming!” he called, walking briskly to the door. He opened it to find his parents, Lucius and Narcissa, along with his closest friends—Theo and Pansy—standing on the doorstep, all smiling brightly.
“Surprise!” Pansy exclaimed, stepping inside with a bounce in her step. “We thought we’d check in on you after the big send-off.”
“Yeah, you look like you could use some company,” Theo added, stepping inside and shrugging off his coat.
“Thanks, but I’m fine,” Draco replied, though he couldn’t hide the slight tremor in his voice. He led them to the plush couches in the living room, where they settled down.
Narcissa settled beside Draco, her gaze softening as she studied him. “How do you feel now that Mia is at Hogwarts?” she asked gently, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
Draco chuckled slightly, the sound tinged with bittersweetness. “Honestly? I feel a bit empty. The house was always lively with her around, and now it feels... quiet.”
Lucius nodded in understanding. “It’s a significant change, Draco. But she’ll make wonderful memories at Hogwarts, and it’s a new chapter for both of you.”
“I know,” Draco sighed, leaning back against the couch. “It’s just hard to let go, you know? I can’t believe she’s old enough to be starting this journey.”
Pansy leaned forward, her expression sympathetic. “It’s tough, but it’s also exciting! Just think of all the stories she’ll have when she comes home for the holidays.”
“Exactly,” Theo chimed in, trying to lighten the mood. “And you can always visit her. Imagine all the Quidditch matches you could attend together!”
Draco smiled at the thought. “Yeah, I guess so. It’s just... I hope she enjoys it. Hogwarts can be overwhelming.”
As the conversation shifted, Narcissa brought up the topic of house sorting. “Speaking of Hogwarts, what do you think will happen when Mia is sorted?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
“Do you think she’ll end up in Slytherin like you?” Pansy asked, her tone teasing but hopeful.
Theo interjected, “Or maybe Gryffindor? She’s quite brave, you know.”
Draco shrugged, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. “Honestly, I don’t care what house she gets into. I just want her to enjoy herself and find where she belongs. She’s strong and smart, so she’ll do just fine anywhere.”
“Very true,” Lucius agreed, a hint of pride in his voice. “What matters most is that she learns and grows.”
Narcissa smiled warmly at her son. “You’re a wonderful father, Draco. Mia is lucky to have you.”
Draco shifted in his seat, a slight blush creeping onto his cheeks. “I just want to give her the best life I can. I want her to feel loved and supported.”
“From what we’ve seen, you’re already doing an excellent job,” Pansy said, her eyes twinkling. “She’s going to be a great witch. And if she ends up in Slytherin, she’ll have the best mentor right at home.”
“Yeah, she’ll have you to guide her,” Theo teased. “Just don’t go too easy on her because she’s your daughter!”
Draco laughed, shaking his head. “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure she learns to stand on her own two feet. But I will always be there for her, no matter what.”
As the group continued to chat, Draco felt warmth slowly replace the emptiness he had felt earlier. Surrounded by friends and family, he realized that while Mia’s absence was palpable, he was not alone. Together, they reminisced about their own time at Hogwarts, the laughter echoing through the quiet house, filling it with memories and love.
Eventually, as the evening wore on, his parents and friends said their goodbyes, leaving Draco alone in the dimly lit house. He wandered into the living room, reflecting on the day. The absence of Mia was still heavy in the air, but he took comfort in knowing she was embarking on a new adventure.
Later that night, as Draco prepared for bed, he noticed an envelope on the table, the familiar handwriting bringing an instant smile to his face. It was from Mia.
He opened the letter eagerly:
Dear Dad,
I just wanted to let you know that I’m already having a fantastic time at Hogwarts! I was sorted into Slytherin, just like you! I met Lily and Hugo on the train, and even though we’re in different houses, we promised to stay best friends forever. Professor Longbottom said hello to you, and he told me not to worry about anything. I’m so happy here!
I miss you lots, but I know you’re proud of me. I can’t wait to tell you more about my adventures!
Love you!
Mia
Draco felt a wave of relief and joy wash over him as he finished reading the letter. His daughter was thriving, and he couldn’t have been prouder. He smiled softly, picturing her excitement as she navigated her new world.
He picked up a quill and parchment and began to write back:
Dear Mia,
I’m so happy to hear you’re having a wonderful time! Slytherin is lucky to have you, and I’m proud of you for being such a brave girl. Don’t worry about anything; just focus on having fun and making great memories with your friends. I can’t wait to hear all about your adventures at Hogwarts!
Remember, I’m always here for you, no matter what house you’re in. I miss you dearly, but I know you’re doing great things!
Love you more than you can imagine,
Dad
After sealing the letter, Draco felt a sense of contentment settle over him. Mia was growing up, and while he would always miss her, he knew she was embarking on a path that would shape her into the person she was meant to be.
He took a deep breath, feeling the warmth of love and pride fill the empty spaces in his heart, and allowed himself to finally relax, knowing that they would always have each other, no matter the distance.
