The Riddle of Us *Mattheo x Reader*

Chapter 3 Picture Perfect Holidays, but with the Malfoys

Y/N laughed, shaking her head. "You're right, that was brilliant. But it's still nothing compared to when Pansy and I set up that whole haunted prank in the common room. We charmed the portraits to start whispering terrible things about everyone in Slytherin—like the time one of them said, 'Oh look, here comes the great Draco Malfoy, acting like the king of Slytherin,' and then started mocking him in front of the entire house." She snickered. "It wasn't even subtle."

Lucius, who had been listening intently, raised an eyebrow, his voice calm but stern. "I trust you both have still managed to maintain your positions at the top of your classes despite this... prank war nonsense?"

"Yes, Father, of course we did," Y/N replied nonchalantly, though her pride was evident in her voice. "And even Granger—sad little thing—isn't top of the class in Transfiguration anymore. I do believe that title now belongs to me." She said it with a hint of mock pity, her lips curling into a smile.

Draco grinned, leaning back in his chair with his usual smirk. "Yeah, that filthy little Mudblood's been a nuisance all year, hasn't she? And don't get me started on Potter. That blasted Gryffindor has no sense of humour whatsoever. Not a surprise, considering his poor upbringing." He leaned forward, eyes gleaming. "I'm actually looking forward to getting away from the castle. I can't wait for the Hogsmeade trip. It'll be my first one, and I'm going to make sure it's memorable."

Y/N nodded enthusiastically, her eyes lighting up at the prospect. "Yes, I am ever so excited! I've heard so much about the shops there—especially the one with all the sweet treats! I can't wait to have a bit of freedom away from all the Hogwarts nonsense." She leaned in conspiratorially. "Maybe we can even take a stroll to the Three Broomsticks, and you know... cause some trouble."

Narcissa's voice interrupted, her tone full of warmth and nostalgia. "Oh, you should be excited!" She beamed, her eyes softening with a reminiscent gleam. "That's where your father and I went on our very first date, you know." She chuckled softly, her expression gentle as she looked over at Lucius, who gave her a curt nod in agreement. "We didn't have nearly as many pranks to keep us occupied, but it was quite a memorable day."

Y/N smirked at her father, teasing, "I'm sure it was, Mother. Though I doubt Dad's pranking skills were nearly as refined back then, eh?"

Lucius shot her a sharp look, his usual icy demeanour slightly softened. "I assure you, Y/N, your mother and I didn't need pranks to have a good time." He paused for a moment, then added with a sly grin, "Though I suppose I could teach you a thing or two about getting the better of someone... if you're interested."

Y/N rolled her eyes, playfully punching Draco's arm. "Looks like the pranking gene runs in the family."

Draco laughed. "It certainly does. You've learned from the best, haven't you?"

As they settled into a comfortable silence, the fire crackling before them, Y/N couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. It was good to be home. There was, after all, no place like it. And with the holidays stretching before them, she had plenty of time to come up with new pranks to carry on the tradition. It was nice this was rare for the Malfoy family to be sitting and chatting all together and all enjoying themselves.

—

It was Christmas morning at the Malfoy Manor. The grand house was dressed to the nines with sparkling garlands, twinkling lights, and an over-the-top tree standing proudly in the centre of the drawing room. The fire crackled merrily, casting a warm glow over the room, while Y/N and Draco stood side by side at the top of the grand staircase, impeccably dressed in their fine morning robes.