Chapter Text
"Please don't tell me she's still talking about us when we're both married..." sighed Tina.
"Then I won't tell you," Queenie smiled.
She put Lady Marauder's paper on the edge of the table, bringing her cup of tea to her lips, hiding a smile. Porpentina, known as Tina, eldest daughter of the Goldsteins and newly Lady Scamander, was one of those young women whose determination and intelligence gave her face a lively and spirited beauty. She had black hair, darker eyes and skin as pale as porcelain. During her five seasons, Tina had never been considered "the beauty", less so when the male population realized the liveliness of her spirit. The stronger sex doesn't like to be told that it knows less than the weaker sex. She had always been regarded as "the daughter of" or "the sister of," since Queenie was the true angel face of the family. At the age of twenty-three, she had been convinced that she would end up an old maid, and took comfort in the thought that solitude would give her time to continue her education and research.
But last year, at the second ball of the season, a new face had appeared. A noble face, slim, full of finesse, elegance, wisdom, but above all curiosity and adventure. And she had fallen in love in a heartbeat with the famous Count Scamander. Sadly convinced that he would never notice her. For his part, Newton had later confided to her that after two dances shared with her, he was already convinced that she would be his wife. "No one else but you, mon ange," he had said. Tina had never been happier or more fulfilled since their marriage, and she was even happier knowing that her sister had married Count Scamander's best friend, the entertaining and benevolent Baron Kowalski that same year.
Queenie was the face, then, the face you notice, the face you sing the praises of, the face you fight for. She had a thin, slender look, wonderful blonde curls, a smile like no other and blue eyes sparkling with life. The young woman had been courted rather intensely, not to say oppressively, by many handsome men during her three seasons. But she had fallen madly in love with Jacob Kowalski for several reasons: he had the decency to address her as a human being and not as a doll, he was always careful to make sure that she really wanted to dance before taking her on the dance floor, he complimented her not only on her looks but above all on her kindness and intelligence, and he made a point of seeing her smile sincerely at every encounter. He had asked for her hand in August, without any hope, convinced that she saw him only as a friend. And the young Queenie had burst into tears of joy, repeating a thousand times how much she loved him and how much she wanted none other than him.
In short, the sisters had each found a spouse they loved and who loved them back, and the two couples had been spending as much time together as possible for the past year, including the sunny summer months in London.
Queenie and Jacob had chosen, for the season, to leave their beautiful home in Kent to enjoy the company and hospitality of the Earl and Countess Scamander in their home in the capital. The Goldstein sisters have been looking forward to working together with their mother on the presentation of Credence this year for several months now. After the death of their father five years earlier, the two young women and their mother found themselves morally in charge of the young Lordy Barebone. Not that it had been complicated, on the contrary, they all three loved Credence with all their hearts.
He was Tina and Queenie's cousin on their father's side. Credence was the only son of the tyrannical Lord Robert Barebone, Baron of Salemchurch and the cruel Lady Mary-Lou, sister of Lord Goldstein. Both of them had died in a carriage accident eleven years earlier and young Credence had come to live with the Goldsteins. He was a quiet, reserved, incredibly kind and intelligent being whose vivacity of mind and generosity rivaled only his elegance and well-defined face. Like Tina, he had dark hair, ivory skin and piercing black eyes. Only Lordy of the Goldstein and Barebone family, he was the subject of much discussion, especially since the three women had done everything possible to preserve him as best they could, keeping him away from London society for as long as possible. His childhood had been a most unhappy one, and looking after his happiness was one of their many vocations.
The young man's only flaw was his cruel lack of self-esteem, which led Lady Goldstein to make the decision to postpone his entry into society for several years. But this year, for his 20th birthday, Credence had discreetly made it known that he finally felt able to face the social balls and parade picnics in the park, but also the looks and gossip that accompanied these events. That was how the three ladies Goldstein, Scamander and Kowalski found themselves reading Lady Marauder's newspaper this morning. Or rather not to read it in the case of Tina.
Lady Goldtein entered the dining room, taking a seat on one of the armchairs, warmly thanking the maid who served her tea and toast. Elenora Goldstein was one of those Ladies who took nothing for granted and readily saluted the work of others, whether they were inferior to her by birth or not. Working for the Goldsteins was a real pleasure for the servants, and she had never heard any of her employees complain about her treatment, and was delighted to see that it continued with her children.
Elenora wasn't tall, but her appearance alone was enough to silence an entire room. She still had a pretty face, light eyes like Queenie's and raven-colored hair like Tina's. She was a good-looking person. And no doubt her years of happiness with Lord Anthony Goldstein had helped her keep her beautiful smile.
Without asking her younger daughter's advice, she grabbed the pamphlet and held it in front of her face so she could read its contents. Her eyes widened before a cheeky smile took its place on her face.
"Well, I who thought that Credence would make an unnoticed entrance. "
She put the paper down and began to drink her tea. Tina rolled her eyes in that undistinguished expression that reflected her exasperation.
"Mama, you know very well that the presentation of a Lordy is always the subject of all rumors," she replied.
"Yes, unfortunately," sighed her mother. "It's strange that after so many years, the third sex still causes so much excitement. Shouldn't men have gotten used to this change in human beings? Heaven, between those who find it repugnant, those who judge it against the church or nature, and those who crave to discover a body other than the females they ... "
" Mama, please!" her older daughter cut her, who was quickly blushing. "It is not yet 10 o'clock in the morning... "
"Oh, well, well, you're right Tina, this is not a breakfast discussion. "
Queenie hid a giggle behind a sip of tea. Her mother and sister ignored it, and to conclude the subject, Tina simply added:
"I doubt it would be an appropriate discussion under any other circumstances. Some men can give birth, they are called Lordies when they are from recognized families, I know that, and that's enough for me. "
Each returned to their breakfast, the silence interrupted only by the usual sounds of a shared meal. Then, after a quick sigh, Elenora spoke again:
" I am nevertheless happy that without ever having met him Lady Marauder decided to draw such a flattering portrait of Credence. Poor young Malfoy was not so lucky two years ago. "
"Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that his father, Lord Malfoy, is an unpleasant character, that his mother is frighteningly disdainful and that they are closely related to the Lestrange, whose only name deserves no adjectives. "
Queenie strangled herself with her toast and Tina just raised an eyebrow as if what she had just said wasn't strange at all. Their mother stared at her elder daughter before taking offence:
"Well, Porpentina, isn't it your turn to bite your tongue? "
"I beg your pardon, my words have overtaken my thoughts. "
Everyone in this room knew that her apology was not really sincere. The Malfoy family didn't have the best of reputations, and this, long before the disgrace that had fallen on the shoulders of young Lordy Draco. Also, no one ever really hides from acknowledging that they were not value acquaintances in the good society of London.
Footsteps were heard and moments later, dressed impeccably in a dark emerald suit, Lord Scamander entered the dining room.
"Ladies, mon ange, good morning! " he said cheerfully.
In a few steps he was at Tina's side and without any embarrassment, he bent down to put a sweet kiss on her lips. The Goldsteins had never been one of those families that hide the traits of affection and Elenora had always wanted everyone to feel comfortable to express themselves, within the limits of reason and decency, of course. She was much happier to see her sons-in-law kissing her daughters rather than ignoring them in the cold calm imposed by so many parents.
"Good morning to you, dear son-in-law. Have you taken a look at Lady Marauder's paper today? " asked the matriarch.
The servants were busy trying to get the Lord to sit next to his wife, since he would obviously not take his place at the end of the table today either, preferring instead to sit as close as possible to Tina.
"No, I'm afraid I had other priorities. " He replied sitting down. "You are beautiful my love ". he added to Lady Scamander's attention, bringing one of her hands to his lips to kiss it.
Lady Kowalski barely held back an emotional sigh, moved to see how much her sister and her husband were still madly in love. Even better, he seemed more attached to her than before, announcing only the best for their future. Newton Scamander, as we have said, was the equal of his wife in terms of intelligence and kindness. He possessed very fine, slightly androgynous features, two large blue-gray eyes, and hair of a remarkable auburn fire color. In a rather peculiar way, he was all in color where Tina described herself in shades of black and white. Even his pale skin was mottled with freckles that the sun brought out.
Lady Goldstein took the paper back into her hands, quickly rereading what had been written on it, before continuing the conversation, willfully ignoring the languid glances of her daughter and son-in-law. If she had to be silent every time they looked at each other like that, she would have even less speech than in a monastery.
"She talks about Credence, of course, but she also talks about your friend, the Duke of Macusa. "
"Lord Graves? " Newton was astonished, finally turning in her direction. "You have my curiosity Madam, what does she say? "
"Apparently, your friend has decided to remarry. "
The shiver that ran down Lord Scamander's spine escaped no one's notice, and Tina hastened to take one of his hands in hers. His Grace, the Duke of Macusa was not only a friend of Newton, he had been the husband of his brother, the late Lordy Theseus. Brothers Scamander and Percival had been friends since childhood, and finally, after years of denying their feelings, Theseus had married Lord Graves, becoming at the age of 19 the first Lordy to marry a Duke of Macusa. Percival was only 25 years old at the time, and his young age, linked to the fact that he had just left university, had made a lot of noise at the time.
They had been happy, incredibly happy, reassured in their difficulty in having children by the fact that they loved each other so much. And finally, after three years of marriage, Theo became pregnant and gave birth to the wonderful and tender Hyppolite. Unfortunately, Theseus remained very weak after the birth, and never regained his health. In the saddest and most tragic way, he became pregnant again four years later before losing his life in the miscarriage. This death had left Percival in despair, Hyppolite without a second parent, and Newton had often told his wife that she was the one who had given him a new lease on life, as the untimely death of his brother had left him with no family other than his young nephew.
Although it was difficult for him to get used to the idea that Lord Graves was going to remarry, as he had never imagined him with anyone other than his brother, Newton was happy to hear that Percival felt ready to open up to someone else again and get a taste for life. Because yes, sadly, there was still life after Theseus.
"I guess... I guess it's for the best. Theseus has unfortunately left us three years ago, and I think it's important that my nephew can have two parents. "
This statement brought him the smiles and tenderness of everyone present. Tina bent down to put a kiss on his cheek before saying :
"Certainly, my beloved. "
He smiled back at her before adding in a more assertive tone:
"Lord Graves is a good man in every way. I have no doubt that he will find the right person for him. And I wish him all the happiness in the world, it's the least I can do. For him and my nephew. "
"Do you think he would be inclined to come and share a dinner here with us? " Queenie asked. "I got along wonderfully well with little Hyppolite last time and I would like to see him again. "
Newton seemed to think about it, drinking a few sips of tea, all too aware of the looks of the three women staring at him. After resting his cup in a gesture far too slow to not be theatrical, he finally replied:
"I think that can be arranged. But I'd like to wait until the beginning of the season. The presentation of your cousin will not leave us much time for idleness, and I prefer that he be presented to the eyes of all before introducing him into a more closed circle of acquaintances."
No one found fault with this choice. For ten years, Credence had been the priority of the Goldsteins, and by union it had quickly become that of Lord Scamander and Baron Kowalski. The two men, from their first meeting with the young Lordy, had promised to protect and watch over him. It was something that came quite naturally, as soon as one took care to take an interest in Credence. Everyone in him was calling to be loved and cherished, and God knew that he had sorely missed that in the early years of his life.
"Of course, you are right. " Elenora smiled.
"Have we heard from Lord Wood?" Tina inquired, turning to her mother. "Will he be coming to London for his cousin's first season? "
Lord Oliver Wood was Credence's cousin on his father's side. After the death of the Lordy's parents, he had, in accordance with law and tradition, inherited the title of Baron of Salemchurch, the entire fortune and the Barebone mansion. Contrary to what the Goldsteins had expected, Oliver had nothing of the cruelty of the Barebones. His mother, sister of Credence's father, had chosen not to follow her parents' education in any way and had married for love a man of modest means but incredibly kind and generous. This had made Lord Wood a perfect young man in every way, warm, happy to live, but above all responsible and sensitive. He had not hesitated for a moment to contact Credence, without ever having seen him before, just to assure him that he had nothing to fear from him and that he would always be welcome at the estate. He had also made sure to send Lordy Barebone a significant amount of money every month so that he could buy whatever he needed or wanted, even though he knew that Credence was not lacking anything in the Goldstein family. Elenora knew little about him, but the exchanges she had had with the young man, since he was still only 27 years old, had convinced her of the individual's benevolence.
And even though it would have been the custom for the man of Credence's family, Oliver, to be present for his debut in society, the young Lord had confided in a letter to Lady Goldstein that he preferred to entrust this task to the family that had raised him. He had carefully written: "You see Madam, I will not find my place as one who allows himself to judge the choices and aspirations of my cousin. In spite of all the affection I have for him, I would be far too afraid of losing his confidence by interfering in such complex matters which are, beyond custom, those of the heart. Therefore, do not worry about it if I prefer to leave this task to you. Since you and I both know that even if he does not call you by that name, you are his mother. Of course, I would be happy to make the trip to London if necessary, or if my dearest cousin meets the man with whom he wishes to live his life. »
Elenora tapped her napkin against her lips, finishing her bite before responding to her daughter:
"No, he's not coming. He apologizes for this and is available to discuss the marriage proposals that will be made. "
It was a simple way to explain the thing, but she would not be entrusting all of her correspondence with Lord Wood to her children. Tina made a grimace, visibly upset by the news.
"I don't think it's very right," she said.
"I think you're cruel Tina. He's young and he's not yet looking for a wife or husband. Moreover, he has always shown a lot of sympathy for Credence and the dowry he proposes is more than substantial, especially when added to what your father left. Lord Oliver Wood is a perfect gentleman, and if he cannot come for his cousin's first season, he must have good reasons. I dare to hope that you were more magnanimous in your reply to him, Queenie. "
In an unusual way, Lady Kowalski and Lord Wood had, over the last decade, become very good friends. And this friendship had been strengthened by the young woman's marriage to Jacob. Baron Kowalski's estate was not very far from the Barebone's, and the young woman had found in Oliver a kind and well-behaved young man who shared her taste for music and painting, but also for cooking, an interest he shared with great enthusiasm with Jacob. Therefore, the epistolary exchanges between Credence's cousin and Queenie had not been a secret for a long time. Elenora had long thought that Oliver would propose to her daughter, but he hadn't done so.
" Of course, Mama. I told him that he was all forgiven and that if he wanted to come to London, we would receive him over dinner with great joy. I hope that is not a problem for you, Lord Scamander," Queenie explained.
"Not at all ", he assured, sweeping away all complications with a graceful wave of his hand.
And it was in this serene atmosphere, as breakfast slowly drew to an end, that Jacob entered the room. In his jovial voice, he asked, a huge smile on his face:
"Did I miss a lot? "
Queenie's face lit up immediately, and her eyes shone with that emotion so particular to young people who love tenderly and passionately. Jacob may not have possessed the physique and allure of men who are considered handsome and well-born, but he was so full of kindness and joy that it was enough to make his physiognomy pleasing. He was not tall in stature, short brown hair, dark eyes and a sincere smile almost always on his lips. Queenie adored him with her eyes for several moments, then she frowned as she noticed the flour on his shirt just as her husband approached her.
"Nothing really new, my dear, we were discussing this morning's pamphlet. Jacob, did you help in the kitchen again? " she asked, in a slightly reproving tone.
Since their arrival in this house, the young baron had almost made it his duty to help the servants with the preparation of meals and other desserts, as if he was trying to apologize for being present and eating at his friend's expense. He finally arrived at her side, bent down to kiss her forehead and caress her cheek before answering:
"I asked for a special meal for tomorrow evening and in compensation I showed them how to cook some pastries. "
"In compensation?" Newton wondered, abruptly straightening himself up on his chair. "Kowalski, you are a baron and my guest here, what compensation do you mean? "
"The one dictated by my conscience, but also by my entertainment: I love to cook, I don't see why I should deprive myself of it. "
It was an honest and logical answer, but it did not fail to upset Lord and Lady Scamander, who looked at it with a slight disapproving head movement. Before he could go back to his duties, Queenie grabbed her husband's hand and forced him to sit with her at the table.
"For the moment," she said, "sit with me, for I suppose you got up at dawn to bake bread, just like yesterday, and haven't eaten anything yet. "
The red on Kowalski's cheeks didn't lie, his wife was right.
"My sweet, you read me like an open book," he smiled.
And without being able to help himself, he placed a soft kiss, almost a caress, on Lady Kowalski's lips, which let out a shy giggle. Elenora would probably have looked up to the sky if her gaze hadn't fallen at the same time on the silhouette of the man who had been at the center of much of this morning's thoughts.
"Ah here is my savior!" she exclaimed as she reached out her arms to Credence. "Each of them cooing on one side of the table, leaving me alone," she sighed, pointing to her daughters and their husbands. "Come closer, Credence, come and sit beside me. "
Politely, and in the most elegant way possible, the young Lordy greeted everyone before approaching Lady Goldstein. He settled down next to her, and in this childish gesture that he had kept, he let his head rest against his aunt's shoulder for a short while. She caressed his long ebony curls with tenderness before he straightened up.
"I woke up late, I apologize for that," he said. "I thought Queenie would wake me up. "
Tina and Queenie exchanged a knowing look. The two sisters had decided to let their cousin sleep as long as possible knowing all the events that awaited him today but especially knowing his anxious nature. He needed to rest, to take care of himself, London could wait.
" You are entirely forgiven, especially with such a beautifully rested face ", Elenora assured him, brooding over him with a maternal gaze.
He nodded vaguely, thanking in a smile the maid who had just served him breakfast. All eyes around the table were on him, and Credence felt strangely self-conscious when the "festivities" hadn't even begun yet. Heavens, the next few months were going to be long...
"Are you anxious? "
"Oh, Tina, what a sweet way to start a conversation... "sighed her mother.
"It's a simple question, I'm worried about him. "
She had said aloud what everyone was thinking, all of them on the alert, waiting for the slightest detail, the slightest reaction from the young man that would suggest that he wanted to postpone his presentation again.
But nothing, Credence, though terrified, was determined to go out into the world and the unknown. Tina and Queenie had made a masterful debut, there was no reason why he could not. He had promised himself, he would be strong, he would be perfect, blameless, worthy of the love, patience and trust of the Goldsteins, Oliver, Newton and Jacob. He was going to be worth it. So he straightened his shoulders, put on a serious face and said:
"I'm fine Tina, thank you. Yes, I'm anxious, but I'm sure that tonight's ball will go wonderfully well. "
Elenora put one of his locks back behind his ear, as she had been doing for years, and smiled the sweetest answer:
"Of course, my dearest one, you will be the wonder that will make this evening memorable. "
The ball was indeed wonderful, and never in his life had Credence seen so many beautiful outfits and sublime decorations cohabit in such a large room. He felt slightly overwhelmed by the crowd, the music, and the fluid movements of the petticoats. Tonight he was wearing a purple outfit, and on his aunt's advice, had placed a few pearls in the loose bun that had been carefully made for him. He had followed all of Tina's recommendations carefully, had accepted Queenie's advice, and had executed everything Lady Goldstein had taught him as perfectly as possible, and it had paid off. His head was still spinning: the Queen had named him Diamond of the Season. And in less than a sigh, he had become the heart of every conversation, the center of every gaze, the subject of every covetousness. He had been... what had Her Majesty said? Ah yes: Flawless...
"Well, I must admit I'm not really surprised, but it's still an immense honor to know you named the diamond of the season, my dear. "
Lady Goldstein had repeated this several times before, but she seemed to realize it a little more each time she said it out loud. And Credence always panicked a little more. Tina wrapped an arm around his, bringing him against her in a protective gesture.
"Mother, don't insist, he's already so uncomfortable," she said in a low voice.
And that was the truth. Credence felt like one of those fairground creatures that are exhibited to the general public. He who had spent his whole life trying not to be noticed, outside of discussions, because in truth Lordy Barebone expressed his opinions with a lot of aplomb, now he found himself like a sheep among wolves. He could hardly breathe just thinking about it.
"I must admit it's a bit much for me," he confided. "I feel overwhelmed. "
"Don't worry Credence, we'll look after you," Queenie assured him.
He never doubted that, but that didn't make it any easier. The more he moved among the guests, the more he wanted to disappear. At least the curiosity of the guests seemed to keep them from inviting him to dance for the moment, too busy staring at him. Tina soon moved away to the dance floor with an old friend and Mrs. Goldstein joined one of her friends near the buffet, leaving Queenie alone with him as Jacob was in the middle of a conversation with Lady McGonagall, the host of this sumptuous evening.
Credence was looking at everyone present when his eyes fell on a recessed silhouette, half hidden by a huge flowerpot. The young man, slim and svelte, must have been only a few years older than he was. Credence found him beautiful but also incredibly sad, as if he recognized in his eyes the resignation to the existence that had inhabited him throughout his childhood. Then he noticed that the guests weren't just looking at him, no, they alternated between him and the stranger before exchanging whispers and giggles. He leaned over to Queenie and asked:
"May I ask you who is the young man in that corner? "
She followed his gaze and her sweet smile faded a little. She let a sigh pass her lips before answering:
"The one with light hair? "
"Yes. "
"This is Lordy Darco, Lord Malfoy's only son. "
He had heard the name several times before, but as always, the Goldstein sisters had made sure to protect his ears from all gossip and other scandals. Credence never knew anything about the baseness and misadventures of high society, and since he did not like those who made fun of the misfortunes of others, he never read Lady Marauder. Also, he knew Lordy Draco Malfoy by name, but knew nothing about the sad adventure that led him tonight to hide behind roses.
"Why is he so set aside ? " he asked. "I feel like everyone is looking at him before they turn to me. "
Queenie looked around to see the same thing. Then she bit her lower lip, visibly weighing the pros and cons.
"I don't know if... "
"Oh Queenie, please tell me, no one ever tells me the scandals. "
And there was a reason for that. Credence was too good and generous to allow himself to think ill of others. Lady Kowalski looked at him for a few moments, hesitating to confess the truth to him, then, after another sigh, she spoke in confidence:
"Lordy Draco made his debut two years ago. He was a rare and cold beauty and even though he wasn't a diamond of the season, he made a lot of heads turn. "
"I still think he's very handsome. What happened? "
"In the last two years, he had a multitude of proposals, but it was finally Lord Riddle, the Duke of the Death Eaters, who got Lord Malfoy's approval last August. And after only two weeks of engagement, he broke the bond between them without giving any explanation to anyone, suggesting that Lordy Draco had behaved very badly and that he was... well... impure."
It was without a doubt the worst possible accusation. If Lordy's status was now recognized and somehow accepted in society, the fact remained that it was quite often despised and regarded as an aberration. And being considered by others as being less male than men and less female than women, it was up to the Lordies to make sure that they were as perfect and irreproachable as possible because the scandals proved to be much more violent and difficult for them and their disgraces were often only hanging by a thread.
"But it's horrible. And the poor man never had a chance to explain himself on the subject? "
Queenie had a slight grimace, one that revealed that Credence did not yet know very well the environment he had just entered today.
"I doubt it would help ", she admitted. "As for the glances that are addressed to both of you, it is because you are the only two Lordies this year, which makes you opponents. "
"Opponents? But why are we opponents ? "
It was the most ridiculous thing ever! Why should they be adversaries? Why should he make of the only person in this room capable of understanding him, his enemy?
"Well, you are the center of covetousness, especially after the Queen's interest in you, and society likes to show off angelic beings while it stones those it deems scandalous and unworthy," Queenie explained.
An anger settled in the young man's belly. Angelic? Him? He who had suffered so much so often? Who had been threatened for so long to be sent to hell? For many years he had let people decide his life and what was good for him. Well, tonight that was coming to an end! Wasn't he the diamond after all?
"I cannot tolerate this. No one will make enemies of us, not if I can do anything about it. "
He was determined.
"What do you mean?" worried his cousin in front of his determined face.
"Introduce me. I wish to make his acquaintance, and if he accepts it, become his friend. "
"But Credence, his reputation is... "
"It can be whatever it wants, I don't care! " he cut it off, a little drier than he would have liked. Then he added more calmly: "If tainting my purity allows him to regain some of the esteem due to him, I would not hesitate for a moment to tarnish my image of being angelic. "
"Credence, you... "
"My decision, Queenie. I won't let anyone turn us against each other, especially after the hell he must have gone through in the last few months. "
And to the change of expression on her beautiful face, Credence saw that she understood. If his position with Draco had been reversed, he would have given a lot for the young man to come to meet him. Lady Kowalski nodded softly before taking his arm and taking a slow and graceful step towards the young Lordy Malfoy. The latter glanced at them, as if he expected them to turn back until the last second, but they did not, and when they arrived at his side, Queenie greeted him politely.
"Lordy Draco, what a pleasure to see you here tonight. "
"The pleasure is all mine, Lady Kowalski," he replied in the assured voice of his rank and family, but still a bit stressful.
Credence noticed it in the way he squeezed his hands into two fists for a fraction of a second, but also in the slight braiding of his voice. He was uncomfortable and was obviously not used to the kindness of others.
"I don't think you've ever met my cousin, Lordy Credence. "
He stepped forward a little more, and the two young men bowed to each other. They were almost the same height, and from up close, Credence could see how his expression reflected a deep melancholy. He had large sapphire eyes and silver hair, a skin like a pearl. Clearly, he was the one who deserved to be called a diamond: this young man had everything of a precious stone.
"No, unfortunately," said Draco. It seems that we often crossed paths without ever being introduced to each other.
"It's a real joy to meet you, Lordy Draco," smiled Credence.
" Is it? "
The word had passed his lips with such astonishment and trembling that it was impossible to doubt now that Draco was expecting a bad joke or a new humiliation from them. The shock quickly disappeared from his face and he pulled himself together and said:
"I wanted to say, I'm very enchanted too. "
It was there, at that very moment, as Lordy Draco did his best to hide his emotion and confusion, that Credence was convinced that he would do his best to make Draco one of his closest friends. The young man had been abused for far too long.
"May I leave you alone for a moment? The warmth of this ballroom made me thirsty. Would you like me to bring you a lemonade?" Queenie suggested.
Credence thanked her with a glance, knowing full well that her cousin wanted to leave them alone for a moment so they could get to know each other, aware that Draco would probably confide in him more if he was alone with another Lordy.
"No thank you," Draco said politely.
"I would like that, please," smiled Credence, letting his thanks show through.
Queenie nodded before walking away. It was unusual to leave two young men like that, but since neither of them was really considered a Lord or a Ladies, occupying the bastard place in Lordy's social ladder, the maneuver did not seem to bother anyone, or at least not the main people involved.
Darco stared at Credence for a few moments before shifting his attention to the dancers, visibly biting the inside of his cheek to keep his anxiety at bay. Unluckily, Lordy Barebone was a connoisseur of stress and panic and would have recognized the glow in his eyes anywhere. After a faint polished throat scrape to give himself some composure, Credence asked:
"Do you have anything special in mind? You seem to be thinking with great interest. "
Draco turned to him in a slow, almost dramatic gesture, before making a vague gesture with his head and replying :
"Despite the pleasure it gives me to have finally met you after hearing so much about you, I think it would be better for you not to make me one of your acquaintances. "
"Why not? "
Draco watched him for a long time, waiting to see a semblance of mockery in the expression of his discussion companion, but nothing, just waiting for an answer. And this seemed to destabilize him even more. He squeezed his hands behind his back, straightening himself up to regain his poise.
"I don't think you're naive enough Lordy Credence not to know the state of my reputation, and what it might rub off on your so pretty decorum, which pushed you tonight to start presentations with me. "
"My decorum is in excellent condition, thank you. And without being naive, I am not disdainful for all that. You should know that I ... "
"You are the diamond! " he cut it. Then, more sadly, as resigned, he added: "I will forever be the coal. "
Credence considered him for awhile. The emotion on Draco's face dissipated as quickly as it had come. Not to show feelings and disturbances, a rule at the base of their education, but one of the most difficult according to Credence. As is the rule to keep one's opinion to oneself. He had been silenced for far too long not to say his thoughts out loud now when he was in the company of people he trusted. So, with a reassuring smile, he said:
"Isn't coal a far more important necessity than the futility and shallowness of diamonds? "
"You know very well what I mean," sighed Draco.
"Yes, but I'm stubbornly opposing it. What I see before me tonight, after only a few minutes of discussion, is a witty young man of undeniable beauty, a remarkable allure whose elegance is felt as much as his intelligence. You've been treated badly, that's a fact, not a question. "
There, things were said, put down between them like a silver platter bearing in its center the beginnings of a relationship based on sincerity and trust. But Lordy Malfoy was not so easy to convince.
"Is this your way of trying to find out more about me? " he asked curtly.
"No, it's a proposition," he answered calmly.
The annoyance gave way to a certain anxiety. Or rather surprise. Draco seemed really lost in this discussion, and the glimmer of hope in his eyes ended up convincing Credence that he had made the right choice.
"I'm afraid I don't follow," said the blonde.
Credence turned completely towards him, placing his hands behind his back as well. He thought for a few seconds about the best way to formulate his thoughts and then, in a tone of confidence, he explained:
"You see, the diamond of the season is the center of all attention, and I must confess that I don't particularly like that. Coal is also the center of attention, but in a much less glorious and much more oppressive way. Wouldn't it be great if the diamond joined the coal to shine less brightly and the coal regained its splendor? "
"Are you offering me a deal? "
"A friendship, Lordy Draco. I'm offering you a friendship. In a society like this, is it so unlikely that I wish we could take care of each other? "
Lordy Malfoy's eyes opened disproportionately and Credence counted the seconds during which the other held his breath, seemingly unable to receive this offer, as if goodness and kindness were totally foreign to him. And in an instant, as the breath returned to his lungs, the tears began to roll down his cheeks. Pearls of relief, of liberation, of gratitude. Credence immediately handed him his handkerchief, making sure in a quick glance that no one had seen this. It was a waste of time, since everyone was watching, but Draco didn't need to know that.
"I'm sorry..." apologized Draco, quickly wiping his cheeks, blinking several times to chase away the rest of his emotions.
"Come on now, no one saw anything," Credence reassured him. "And these dancers are flying dust, aren't they? "
They exchanged a small laugh. All traces of tension had finally disappeared, and the duo moved closer together, shoulder to shoulder, head up, eyes straight, facing together a society determined to reduce them to a predefined image. Credence noticed that several guests were whispering things, looking at them strangely, but fortunately, before he could feel the anguish, Queenie came back to them.
"Here's your lemonade, Credence, I apologize for the wait, there's a lot of people here tonight. "
"Give it to Lordy Draco, I'm not so thirsty anymore and I think he needs it more than I do. "
Without any protest, she handed the little glass to Draco, giving him that tender smile of hers. Queenie was an angel, that too was a fact, not a question. Credence leaned over to her and asked:
"Would Tina and Newton agree with me inviting Lordy Malfoy to tea tomorrow? "
Draco tried to protest, and Queenie beat him to the punch with her answer:
"Why, certainly. Do you mind if I go and ask her? "
"I'll do it later," smiled Credence.
Things were done. He would do his best to reintegrate Lordy Malfoy into the good feelings of London. Credence was aware that by staying by Draco's side, he might not get many offers to dance, but he didn't care. He was exhausted by the endless day, so he might as well stay on the side tonight. It was only the beginning of the season after all.
Then the doors of the big hall opened on two newcomers. The music subsided before fading into the murmurs of the crowd. The dancing stopped, and people turned to the newcomers to detail them carefully. The first was not unknown, being Lord Scamander, who had spent the afternoon outside the city.
Newton pleased from the start with a very pleasant physique, a distinguished look, a friendly air and manners full of ease and naturalness. He had the elegance of those smiling and well-behaved young men whose fortunes had not yet altered their thoughts. And knowing Tina, that would fortunately never happen. But the tall stature, the beautiful physiognomy, and the fresh air of his friend, whose name Credence did not yet know, helped by the rumor that he owned ten thousand pounds a year, soon drew the attention of the whole room to him. The strong sex judged him to be very handsome, despite his cold expression and the severe air that revealed a certain melancholy. The ladies soon gave him envious glances accompanied by small laughter that Credence found ridiculous. As for the two Lordies of this beautiful assembly, they stared at him without saying anything for a few moments.
"Who is this man who has just entered? " asked Credence to his cousin.
"Have you never met him? " she wondered.
"I'm afraid I haven't. "
In front of the interrogating air of the two young men, Queenie slipped between them to confide in them:
"It is Lord Percival Graves, the Duke of Macusa. "
"He looks so sad. "
It had crossed Credence's lips before he could help it. He didn't mean to sound rude, but the sorrow on the newcomer's face cast doubt on the purpose of his presence here tonight.
"You are not unaware of the tragedy he went through. Newton told us that this is the first time he has appeared in public since the death of Theseus. But everyone here is ready to forget his grief, as long as we take an interest in his fortune. "
"Queenie! " exclaimed Credence, turning sharply to her.
She hid a small laugh behind her hand before continuing:
"15,000 pounds of annuity, and he owns a large part of Derbyshire. "
"He might well own all of England, but that wouldn't change my impression that it would be impossible for me to make him smile," Draco winced.
"Why, isn't coal a fine connoisseur of jokes?" smiled Credence.
The two young men laughed softly, indifferent to the unhappy looks cast on them as the newcomers advanced through the silent crowd. Mr. Graves wore a dark suit whose high collar made him more imposing than he already was. The few wrinkles on his face only made him more friendly to Credence. Yes, he found him handsome, yes, he allowed himself to contemplate him in a different light, to linger on his dark eyes and the shape of his jaw, to give him a different look than he had had for others, and to find in the few silvery reflections of his black hair something strangely seductive.
Finally the music resumed, and everyone returned to their dancing. We watched at length the two nice men who had aroused so much emotion, and it was soon agreed that Mr. Graves, at the age of 35, after his long absence and terrible tragedy, had lost nothing of his magnificence.
"Perhaps I could introduce you," Queenie suggested.
"I think Lord Scamander has the same plan, here they come, I must leave you," said Draco.
Before the Lordy could take a step, Credence put his arm around his, holding him by his side.
"Not a chance! Stay with me. "
"Lordy Credence, it is not... "
But he could not finish his sentence because already Newton's voice was reaching them:
"Credence, may I introduce one of my oldest friends, His Grace the Duke of Macusa.
It was an unusual thing to introduce the person of the highest rank first. But Lord Graves didn't seem to mind, and no doubt his friendship with Newton meant that he was no longer surprised by such familiarity. Up close, he was even more captivating. Credence did not manage to do what any polite person would have done in his place, that is, look away. Luckily for him, the Duke of Macusa seemed busier smiling politely at Queenie he already knew than noticing the Lordy's ecstatic expression. And his luck was reinforced by the slight elbow Draco gave him to get him out of his state. And in the same gesture, both Lordies bowed.
"Your Grace ", said Draco.
Credence seemed to have completely lost the use of speech when he stood up to discover the dark look of Lord Graves on him, and this awakened in him an indescribable warmth and a strange feeling that went up in a shiver along his spine before settling on his heart. He swallowed with difficulty, and he was quite unable to tell whether in an instant he had become white as a sheet or red as a peony.
"Lord Graves, this is Lordy Credence Barebone, my wife's cousin," Newton said in a joyful tone. "And of course Lady Queenie Kowalski whom you already know. As well as Lordy Draco Malfoy. "
Percival finally detached his incandescent irises from him and placed them on Draco, whom Credence saw blushing softly. Then, in his deep voice, the Duke of Macusa responded to the introductions with a simple :
"Gentlemen, Milady. "
And when his lips stretched out in a corner smile, Credence believed that his heart was going to come out of his chest, so fast and strong was it beating. In his life, he had never been particularly inclined to indulge in heart stories and inclinations. But tonight, in the warmth of the great ballroom, before the gaze of his friends, after one of the longest days of his life, before a face so well made and so full of everything Credence did not know he was looking for in a man, he allowed himself to think that perhaps Percival Graves was in great danger of occupying all his thoughts. And finally, the black eyes came back to him and they exchanged a look so deep and intense that the Lordy forgot where he was and why convenience prevented him from confiding out loud his attraction. It was finally Queenie's worried voice that took him out of his mind :
"Credence? Credence, my dear, are you feeling well? "
He shook his head a little in an attempt to regain control of himself, raising to his cousin a confused and lost face.
"Yes, forgive me, I'm afraid the tumult of the day is beginning to make itself felt," he apologized.
And it was only half a lie, after all he had been through and all the looks on his face, especially now that he was surrounded by Draco Malfoy AND Percival Graves, he felt slightly weak and uncomfortable.
"Would you like me to bring you something to eat?" Queenie insisted.
"I would like that. "
"I'll come with you Queenie," announced Newton. "I'll have to try to find my wife among all these guests, so I might as well start with the buffet. "
"I'm coming too, my glass of lemonade is empty," added Draco.
And just like that, in less time than it takes to say it, Lordy Barebone found himself alone at the side of His Grace, the Duke of Macusa. Might as well admit that this situation did not allow him to calm down. Credence had to take on him not to start wringing his hands nervously. He didn't know why his family and new friend had so cowardly abandoned him, but he couldn't help thinking that it was in order to bring him closer to Percival and to put in the spotlight the two people at the center of all the gossip since the last Lady Marauder's paper.
The silence was getting heavy, and unable to find anything else to say, Credence began the conversation with Lord Graves as follows:
"Isn't this a very interesting ploy? "
"I beg your pardon? " he asked him, visibly out of his thoughts.
The Duke turned to him, giving him his full attention, and Credence thought that he would have been better off keeping quiet. He nevertheless managed to hide his trouble and in a more assertive tone, he continued:
"That of leaving me alone with you, until your gaze ends up destabilizing me more than your silence. "
He regretted his sentence as soon as he noticed the frozen and nervous expression on Mr. Graves' face. The man straightened up, his lips forming a perfect line as his eyes darkened. Credence had offended him, it was obvious.
"I'm sorry that my presence disturbs you," said Percival in a dry tone.
Credence had only one desire: to swallow his words. Who did he think he was doing this kind of remaks ? Certainly he was nervous, and yes, being the diamond of the season was not easy, but that did not excuse his behavior! Especially with one of Lord Scamander's best friends, it was unforgivable.
"Your Grace, that's not what I... " he tried.
"Don't worry, I have no intention of burdening you with my presence unduly. The introductions were made out of politeness, not out of interest. And you should know that... "
"I'm sorry! " he said, probably louder than he should have since his apology attracted attention.
Percival, in all his benevolence, contented himself with smiling at the assembly to mask in a joyful expression the discussion they were having. And it worked because soon they were interested in something else. Credence felt so nervous that he wanted to burst into tears. For the first time he found someone attractive, he seemed to be doing his best to make him run away. Maybe the Duke wasn't expecting any explanations, but the young Lordy gave them to him nevertheless:
"I'm... I'm anxious and exhausted by this day and I feel that everyone here expects something from me, and I don't know how... "
"Maybe you should stop talking. "
It was hard to make a colder, more unsettling sentence. Credence finally looked up at Lord Graves and could not help but retort with a wounded smile:
"Oh, now it is I who indispose you. "
Mr. Graves let an annoyed sigh pass his lips, visibly more and more constrained by this situation. He didn't want to be there, and even less in the company of young Credence. It was both sad, and yet terribly predictable, for the Lordy to realize that his attraction had been a one-way thing. Credence was certain that Percival would add nothing, and yet, against all odds, he answered his last assumption:
" No. Or maybe yes. You confide too easily, Lordy Credence, you should be more vigilant. "
This was out of the ordinary. Credence narrowed his eyes, looking more closely at His Grace, trying to detect something in his expression. But nothing. He remained perfect in all circumstances, as his rank expected of him.
"Towards you? " asked the Lordy.
"To everyone. I'm a stranger among others. "
"No, you're not. I'm sorry to tell you that you are openly out of the pack. "
After this sentence, he could distinctly hear in his head the reproving voice of Lady Goldstein saying: "Credence, bite your tongue! ». And she would have been right to point this out to him at that moment. Where was she anyway? And where had everyone gone? He had arrived here with his aunt, his two cousins and Jacob, so why in heaven's name, now that Newton had arrived and he had met Draco, was he alone with Lord Percival Graves?
"Because I'm a Duke? " asked His Grace, with an raised eyebrow.
Anxiety and fatigue were pushing Credence more and more towards annoyance, and the palpable and undeniable tension that had set in between him and Lord Scamander's friend was beginning to make him really uncomfortable. All this added to the fact that there was something in Mr. Graves' voice and appearance that made him want to be honest, Lordy Barebone couldn't contain himself to say in a low and serious voice:
"No, because you've lived. You are not one of those who pretend to exist, let alone one who lies to others as they lie to themselves. You are true, and you are as unsettled to be here tonight as I am, because deep down inside you know. "
"What do I know? "
Something in his intonation revealed an emotion. Not irritation, rather... as if the young man's assumption had piqued his curiosity. He suddenly looked at him differently, in a gentler yet equally ardent way. Credence swallowed with difficulty, and then he said:
"No matter how much we smile, no matter how much we compose our image, no matter how elegantly we move and no matter how much we are considered by others, our place is never defined except by what we have been through. The most terrible as well as the most transcendent. "
And he found in Lord Graves' gaze a resonance to his words that he thought he would never find in a man of such high birth and such a pleasing physiognomy. A sadness in the radiance of his eyes, a shared understanding. Little said, much understood. And even though Credence didn't think it was possible, he suddenly found him even more beautiful. As quickly as it had appeared, the glow disappeared, and the Duke of Macusa turned away from him to focus his attention on the dancers at the heart of the room. Credence imitated him, suddenly realizing that their conversation was the object of many glances, and certainly it must have been from the beginning. The young man felt himself blushing to the roots of his hair. He was praying for Queenie to come back at last, the buffet was not at the other end of the city after all! This time it was Lord Graves who broke the silence:
"You express yourself with great vigor for such a young person. "
"I apologize, I got carried away. "
The Duke nodded vaguely, as if he wasn't really listening to him anymore. And that was probably the case. In a few minutes, Credence had taken much more freedom with him than he had had with Newton or Jacob in a year. He had acted impulsively and stupidly, and tonight would probably be the last time he'd run into Mr. Graves.
It was at this point in his thoughts when a man loudly cleared his throat beside him, almost startled him. He turned to discover one of the people he least wanted to meet here tonight: Lord Peter Pettigrew. The man's face was puffy from the time and the recurrent alcohol consumption. He was small in stature, incredibly clumsy, and to be frank, really not very intelligent. All this added up to that little superior look when he was addressing Credence, which tonight was replaced by an unhealthy look that he made run along the Lordy's body.
"Lordy Credence, I am delighted to see you here tonight! " he exclaimed, his smirk in the corner leaving no doubt about his thoughts.
Credence immediately felt incredibly uneasy, and hesitated between running away or playing the game of this odious character. Unfortunately, he found himself in front of a Lord, and with all due respect, he had to pretend to be happy to see him speak to him. But before he could answer, Lord Graves stepped forward, posing himself next to Credence, so close that their shoulders grazed each other.
"Lord Pettigrew ", he greeted him politely, as if it were the most natural thing to do.
Credence tried to prevent, without much success, his heart from racing and his mind from repeating over and over again: My hero! Idiot, he's not doing this for you, he's doing it for his image! The man's name is Percival, of course he will do his best to match his first name of knight! he thought.
This intervention had the merit of destabilizing Lord Pettigrew, who stood up and said, as clumsily as possible:
"Oh, your grace, I had not seen you. "
How could that have been possible? When the world of Credence had just gone off its axis and began to revolve entirely around the Duke of Macusa? How could one not see a being like this?
Lord Graves did not seem to notice the lack of politeness of his interlocutor, or perhaps he was too well-mannered to let it show. In any case, he was content to return Pettigrew's head salute, without adding anything more. The liberation was short-lived, as the vile character turned his attention again to the young man and asked him in a ridiculously suggestive voice:
"Lordy Credence, may I ask you the next dance? "
Credence didn't want to run away anymore, he just wanted to disappear. Of all the people present tonight, the first to ask him for a dance was Peter Pettigrew? Had the Queen really named him "the diamond of the season"? Or had his recent friendship with Draco made him the "beggar of the season"? Once again, his answer was stolen from him by the Duke's deep and authoritative voice.
"I'm afraid not sir. Lordy Barebone has already promised me the next two dances. "
And just like that, without warning, Credence found himself with one hand under his and another in the hollow of his back to lead him to the dance floor. Freed from Pettigrew's gaze, the center of all attention, the subject of all discussion, like this, in a flutter of silk. A diamond indeed. And yet he did not like to shine... A waltz began and Lord Graves brought him closer to him, while keeping the distance proper to decency. From the corner of his eye, Credence was almost certain to have seen Lady Goldstein jump from joy.
Silence in the company of Lord Graves was not an unpleasant thing, on the contrary, Credence was far too afraid to say anything foolish again, but he was not in the habit of dancing without conversing. So, after a few steps, he allowed himself to notice:
"You shouldn't have done that, people will talk. "
That was a fact, and it was too late now to change that, especially now that His Grace had decided to reserve not one, but two dances to him. To go unnoticed was a lost cause and to run away even more. Lord Graves pressed his hand a little more on his back, and despite the layers of cloth between them, Credence felt his skin burning.
"So let them do it, they'll talk anyway. I must say that it was not Newton's wisest decision to leave you alone with me. Now all I'm going to do is hear about you. But it is in your interest, the eyes of the highest gentlemen in England will turn to you. Well done. "
So Percival Graves took him for someone interested and superficial. Perfect, it was getting better and better. Credence gave him a wounded look before answering simply:
"I'm not sure I want that interest. "
"Aren't you the diamond of the season? "
And now it looked like he was making fun of him. Two dances could last a long time.
"I would have preferred not to have been noticed so much ", he confessed, more for him than for his partner.
Silence returned, allowing them to finish the waltz while getting lost in their respective thoughts, all to the rhythm of the music. Lord Graves didn't let Credence move an inch away from him, and if the young man hadn't been so focused on making his dance as perfect as possible, perhaps he would have been afraid to die of embarrassment in front of all those staring at them. The second dance began, and they continued their movements with the same concentration and graceful fluidity. Towards the middle of the music, the Duke said:
"I won't apologize for saving you from having your feet crushed by Pettigrew, but how can I make up for putting you back in the light ?"
It was generous and benevolent, and surely much more than Credence deserved after his behavior tonight. Nevertheless, the Lordy takes the opportunity to ask :
"Would you agree to dance with Lordy Draco Malfoy? "
"The pearl of scandal? " he wondered.
The what? What did Lord Graves just call Draco ? Anger and injustice began to take shape in the guts of Credence. He gritted his teeth, still managing to articulate:
"Is that what they call him? "
"That's what the Lords call him at the club, yes," Lord Graves admitted.
And now he must have been pale with anger. How could anyone be so cruel? How could you humiliate someone you know nothing about? It was so easy for all these men to look down on what was devoid of their masculine status and at the same time deprived of feminine attributes. It was so easy for them to judge the difference, which escaped them so deeply that they preferred to laugh about it rather than try to understand.
"Lordy", what a stupid name! Not totally "Lord" and not totally "Lady", just in between, with no hope of ever being happy. Credence was not without knowing the fate reserved for his kind in many other countries: death or prostitution. And even less to ignore the fate of all people like him who had to live under oppression and fear before the law of the "Ethics of the Third Sex" was put in place and allows noble families to call their sons hermaphrodites the Lordies, while openly and publicly acknowledging the existence of beings different from the binary combination previously imposed by nature and especially by the church.
Credence clenched his jaw a little tighter to restrain himself from fulminating aloud, and this did not escape his dance partner.
"You're angry," Mr. Graves remarked.
"There's no need to state the obvious. I reject disdain, I loathe condescension and injustice, and I abhor mockery. "
"Those are strong words. Beware, you may offend someone. "
"Are you offended? You don't seem to be. "
God of heaven, what hold did this man have over him to make him lose all his manners? Percival made a guttural sound that vaguely resembled a muffled laugh. A nervous and shocked laugh perhaps, but a laugh nonetheless.
"Heavens, you are a fervent discussion partner! Your words are as sharp as your jaw's line. "
"I'm sorry..." Credence apologized.
"Don't be, it's been a long time since I've met someone so frank. "
"It's because you're surrounded by the wrong people. So, will you agree to dance with Lordy Malfoy? "
His question allowed him to hide the rude phrase that had preceded it. Tina would probably have been red with astonishment if she had heard him talk like that to a man. And he himself was not sure that he was really devoid of that scarlet color. Luckily, Lord Graves did not rise to his feet and was content to grant her request.
"I accept. " Then when the dance was over, he added: "You're a very intriguing creature, Lordy Credence. "
His gaze was dark and penetrating again and Credence felt as if something inside him was catching fire. Of all the men the young Lordy had come across, Percival Graves was certainly the most attractive and enigmatic. The Duke detached himself from him, holding back a strange movement of his hand that made Credence think that he was trying to touch one of his locks of hair. The Lordy regained his self-confidence and replied:
"I would return the compliment, Your Grace, if I knew what you were implying. "
Lord Graves leaned towards him, closer than what good English society thought proper, and whispered in his ear in the tone of confidence:
"Come now, Lordy Barebone, I must keep some mystery, don’t you think? "
And with these words, he quickly greeted Credence before walking away. If the young Mr. Ronald Weasley hadn't come towards him to invite him to dance, the Lordy would have certainly remained frozen in the middle of the ballroom without being able to move. The Duke seemed to have this effect on him: to make him lose all his abilities.
The Duke of Macusa kept his word: Credence had just agreed to dance with the charming Lord Dean Thomas when he noticed murmurs rising in the gathering. And for the first time of the evening, he was not the subject. All these good people were judging or raving about the fact that Lord Graves was advancing in the center of the ballroom with the famous pearl of scandal. And this beautiful look, this presence, this elegance so characteristic of His Grace put all the more emphasis on the cold beauty and refinement of Lordy Draco. Credence had never felt so happy, but also so proud of himself. Because after this dance, which was also wonderful for him because Mr. Thomas was a remarkable dancer, Lordy Malfoy was invited by several great names of the people present.
Tired of his many dances and satisfied with the turn of the evening for Draco, Credence allowed himself to move away to join Tina and Queenie who were standing in a back corner near the buffet. His cousins asked him a host of questions about all his dancing partners, trying to guess which one had caught his attention. Credence was deliberately evasive, in order to play on their curiosity, but also to guard himself from admitting that Lord Graves had, without a doubt, attracted his inclination.
They were soon joined by Newton, Jacob, and the Duke of Macusa, but also by Lordy Draco who introduced them to his aunt, Lady Bellatrix Lestrange. Credence had had very little opportunity to meet Lady Lestrange and her husband at events, but from what he knew of them, they were unpleasant and arrogant people. And judging by Draco's paleness, the poor boy didn't seem to have her by his side by will, but rather by constraint. Bellatrix must have been beautiful one day, especially with the superb hair she still had and the round shape of her face. But her meanness and the emaciation of her features made her look almost monstrous.
A feeling of protection drove Credence to quickly fetch a drink for him and his new friend before taking care to stand next to him. Draco effortlessly noticed his support and gave him a grateful smile. After the introductions and some small talk, Lord Graves took the floor:
"Your nephew, Lady Lestrange, is an exemplary dance partner. "
"Yes, it is a pity that he is not gifted at anything else or prettier. "
"Aunt Bella, please!" Draco was offended, blushing violently with shame.
Credence was now convinced: Bellatrix Lestrange was as evil as she was contemptuous. And there was something snarling and disturbing in her voice that painfully reminded him of someone from his past that he tried in vain to forget.
"What, can't the truth be told, Draco? " she laughed softly, visibly satisfied with the reaction of the circle that surrounded her. "He'll never recognize him, too self-satisfied like his father, but it's not for nothing that the Queen chose Credence as her diamond this year when she gave my nephew a simple look two years earlier. Perfect at first glance, but so full of flaws... How sad. "
She turned to Lordy Barebone, looking at him from the bottom up as one contemplates the next pig one will buy at the fair. She was as unfriendly as she was unpleasant, and this was felt even in the disguised compliments she said afterwards:
"Look at Lordy Barebone instead: androgynous face, pearl skin, ebony eyes and jet hair. No wonder Lady Goldstein tried to keep him hidden for so long, she knew he would break many hearts and hopes. "
It was his turn to blush. Out of embarrassment or anger, he was not sure. From the corner of his eye he saw Tina tense herself violently, as if ready to jump at the neck of this malevolent character. Queenie cast a disempowered glance at her husband who, like the others around them, seemed unable to know what to say, probably too shocked by these words.
"Aunt Bella, please... " tried Draco again.
But of course, Lady Lestrange didn't listen, silencing him with a hand gesture, an almost carnivorous smile on her face, her eyes disproportionately wide open as she continued to mock her nephew.
"Come now Draco, be a good player, or rather a good loser. You've had two years to make a place for yourself and you've failed, rather miserably I must say. It must be said that Lord Riddle's proposal came as a surprise, as he had sworn that he would not ... "
"And so the story ends! " Credence cut her off, deliberately ignoring her outraged look and all the respect he was supposed to owe her. "I don't think anyone needs to hear all this gossip again, Lady Lestrange. "
All eyes were now focused on him, including that of the Duke of Macusa. But the slight pressure of Draco's hand against his arm prevented him from regretting his intervention. He had promised him a friendship, and Lordy Barebone was going to deserve it. Seeing Queenie and Tina's smile, he had reacted in the right way. Without flinching, he held Lordy Malfoy's aunt's gaze, solid on his supports, ready to receive the next acidity passing her pernicious lips. It did not fail. She straightened up, her mouth forming a perfect line, her eyes revealing her irritation, her hands clenched on the front of her dress.
"You seem quick to intervene Lordy Credence, would my nephew have bribed you? It would not surprise me. What's the point of sparing him, no Black has ever felt sorry for being blood related to an incompetent person, and no Malfoy has ever died of a scandal. "
"No, but he might die of shame to have a relative like you. If you'll excuse us, Lordy Draco had promised to show me the roses in the front yard. "
And without waiting a second longer, he put his arm under his friend's arm and quickly dragged him to the big door that opened onto the garden. He would surely hear about this affront tomorrow, Tina would point out to him that such things are not said in public (despite their truth), Queenie would underline his good will, Jacob would undoubtedly laugh about it, Newton would emphasize his self-assurance, and Lord Graves... Lord Graves, who knows... Credence was not sure that the man would want to see him again one day after the display of character he had shown tonight. He must have taken him for a hysteric. But all these worries were swept away by Draco's moving voice, which said to him:
"Is it reasonable to call you my savior? "
"Just consider me as your ally, that will be more than enough for the moment. " He smiled.
Draco tightened his arm around his, breathing in the fresh evening air that was finally reaching them. He gazed at the moon for a moment, and Credence did the same, relieved to see young Malfoy so free from having found an ally.
"We're going to be great friends, you and I," the blond assured him.
"Isn't that what I promised you? "
This season was shaping up to be a very exciting one.