It was Christmas morning, and Cassi's heart leaped with joy as she jumped out of bed. Outside the window, the snow was falling gently, painting the world in white. Seraphina and Morgus seemed somewhat saddened by the cold weather. Cassi quickly checked the heating spells on the terrariums, ensuring her scaly friends were comfortable, before hurrying towards the bathroom.

On the way, her thin silk nightgown glided smoothly over her body, leaving her feeling the softness of the fabric against her skin as it fell to her feet. She dipped into the hot water of the bathtub, feeling the warmth envelop her body and relax her tense muscles. The bubbles floated delicately on her skin, creating a comforting sensation. Cassi closed her eyes, savoring the moment of tranquility and peace.

However, her tranquility was interrupted when she heard knocks on the bathroom door. She furrowed her brow, not expecting anyone at that moment. With a resigned sigh, she allowed the person to enter.

"Darling, I came to wake you u..." Narcissa abruptly interrupted her sentence, watching her intensely. She leaned against the doorframe, her gaze scanning every curve of Cassiopeia's body.

She smiled mischievously, enjoying his bewilderment. She truly seemed delighted by the sight of the young woman in the bathtub.

Cassi felt a little disconcerted but decided to tease a bit to hide her nervousness. "See something you like?" she asked, letting a playful smile dance on her lips.

"Actually, yes. I am quite enjoying the view at the moment," she replied cynically. Her smile widened, seductive, predatory.

Embarrassed, Cassiopeia sank a bit deeper into the water, seeking a bit more privacy. She felt the warm blush starting to rise on her cheeks.

Narcissa found the reaction adorable and let out a warm laugh. "You are precious," she whispered to herself, as if unable to contain the thought. "Enjoy your bath, my love. We'll meet for breakfast afterward."

With one last smile and a lingering gaze from top to bottom, Narcissa left the bathroom, leaving Cassi frustrated and longing for more.

She will be the death of me

(...)

When Cassi descended the stairs, the delightful aroma of crispy toast and honey cake filled her nostrils. The table was already set for the festive breakfast, and Narcissa was sitting next to Draco, while Mr. Malfoy read the newspaper.

"Good morning, everyone," Cassi greeted with a gentle smile. "Merry Christmas!"

"Merry Christmas, my dear," responded Narcissa joyfully, pulling a chair next to her for Cassi to sit.

"Merry Christmas, Foxy," Draco teased, taking a bite of his toast.

"Merry Christmas, Mrs. Gaunt," said Lucius, briefly lowering the newspaper to smile.

The table was filled with a variety of Christmas delights. Pumpkin juice was served in silver goblets, at least three types of cakes - honey, chocolate, and pineapple - each adorned with cute decorations. Tempting aromas wafted from the golden toast, while the Flaming Christmas Puddings adorned the center of the table.

After the silent breakfast, Draco couldn't contain his excitement and childishly pleaded, "Mother, can I open my presents now?"

Narcissa couldn't resist her son's request and smiled broadly. "Of course,dragon," she responded affectionately. Draco ran out of the room, pulling Cassiopeia along, eager to reach the Christmas tree where the presents awaited them.

Narcissa followed closely behind with a smile.

As they walked, Cassi playfully tugged at his wrist. "A little more, and you'll rip my arm off, Draco."

"Oh, spare me, I'm the dramatic one," Draco grumbled, being a bit sulky. Narcissa leaned against the armchair, silently laughing at the two.

Draco pushed a huge pile of presents towards Cassi, surprising her. Her eyes widened at the pile in front of her. She picked up the first present, a lilac wrapping, and could feel Narcissa's watchful gaze, as if the woman was eager to see her reaction.

"Narcissa, you didn't have to, you know," Cassi argued. "You're already welcoming me into your home and gave me a beautiful dress."

Narcissa dismissed her concerns with a gesture. "Nonsense," she said with a wave of her hand. "Come on, I want to see if you like it."

Cassi opened the box with curiosity, her eyes widening as she saw what was inside. It was a small music box, perfectly detailed. When Cassiopeia opened it, a soft blue light emanated from it, reflecting in her eyes.

Her heart raced as her eyes beheld the images reflected in the blue light of the box. They were a series of memories, seen through Narcissa's eyes, of all the moments when the woman saw her smiling. It was such a delicate, thoughtful gift.

With teary eyes, Cassi looked at Narcissa and gratefully said with a choked voice, "Narcissa, this is... incredible. I have no words. Thank you."

She smiled gently. "It's for you to always remember how beautiful your smile is."

Cassi stood up and hugged the woman in front of her. "Thank you so much," she whispered softly.

Narcissa looked deep into Cassi's eyes and planted an affectionate kiss on her forehead.

Then Cassi chuckled lightly, feeling a bit embarrassed. "You know, my gift isn't as delicate, but..." She blushed furiously and searched for her own present for the woman under the tree before handing it over.

Narcissa seemed surprised but took the gift curiously. Unwrapping it, she found what initially looked like a notebook. She raised an eyebrow, curious.

"Open it," Cassi encouraged, now quite nervous. "Please, I hope you like it."

When Narcissa opened the notebook, she was met with several drawings of herself. There were many, from various angles. She was slightly open-mouthed in shock as she carefully observed the pages.

Cassiopeia started to get anxious and fiddled with her fingers, trying to explain. "It might seem strange... Maybe weird, but... You appeared in my mind frequently, and... and I like to draw what I find beautiful," she rambled.

"It's perfect, darling," Narcissa saved her from her embarrassment, still looking at the notebook. "You're so talented," she murmured, impressed by the level of detail in the drawings.

"No, you're the one who's too beautiful," Cassi blushed even more but was relieved by Narcissa's reaction.

"You never drew me," Draco huffed suddenly, reminding everyone of his presence. For a moment, Cassiopeia forgot he was there.

Narcissa laughed at her son's antics.

"That's because I don't find you attractive," she playfully teased, and Draco seemed genuinely, very offended.

"Excuse me? Are you blind, woman?" He asked, visibly indignant.

Cassiopeia laughed so much that she had to sit down to recover. "I... I was joking," she said between laughs. "I have a separate notebook just for my friends at Hogwarts," she explained gently.

Draco seemed more satisfied with that answer. "Well, of course..." he tried to play it off.

Narcissa shook her head, thoroughly amused by the interaction between the two.

(...)

In the early afternoon, Kreacher appeared, looking a bit confused with the summons, but he was overjoyed to see Cassiopeia.

"Mistress called for Kreacher?" he questioned with a wide smile.

"Of course, dear Kreacher," Cassi smiled, lowering herself to his height. "I have a present for you." She said softly, handing him a package. "I wanted to give it to you personally," she added, amused by the elf's astonished expression.

"For me? Mistress thought of Kreacher? Oh, I do not deserve such kindness," he said, tears welling up in his eyes.

"But of course, you do. Now, come on, open it," Cassi urged, watching his reaction attentively.

When he unwrapped the package, his eyes grew even wider in admiration. There were two portraits. One of Walburga with the young Regulus smiling at the camera, and another of just Regulus.

"Oh, young Master Regulus," he cried as he looked at them closely. "For Kreacher, mistress?"

"Yes, I noticed that you like to keep family portraits... So..." Cassi smiled. "Merry Christmas, dear Kreacher."

The elf composed himself before thanking her once again.

"Now, go, Sirius needs you. Take care of that flea-bag for me, alright?" she asked gently.

"Kreacher would rather take care of Mistress Cassiopeia," he said, looking down. "But Kreacher will obey the kind Mistress and take care of the scoundrel Black" and with one last smile, he Disapparated, and Cassi let out a laugh

The rest of the afternoon was spent lost in the books of the Malfoy Manor library. The shelves were enormous and made of dark wood, creating a cozy atmosphere.

That's when Narcissa found her, sitting in an armchair, slowly flipping through a book with at least 20 others piled beside her. Narcissa's jaw dropped for a moment, surprised by Cassi's dedication, before she sat down curiously beside her, silently observing.

Cassiopeia scanned the lines with her eyes, as if she were scanning them, before turning the page. She was engrossed in her reading, completely immersed in a book about dark magic. When she finished one book, she closed her eyes getly, as if reflecting on something, and then moved on to another from the stack.

"Curious," Narcissa said suddenly, making Cassi jump in surprise.

"Salazar's Snakes! Narcissa," Cassi gasped, putting her hand to her chest, while Narcissa couln't help but laugh.

"Sorry, love" She said softly. "I didn't mean to startle you."

"How long have you been here? I didn't even notice when you came in," Cassiopeia asked, confused.

"You were so absorbed that you hardly would have noticed, my love," Narcissa smiled amused. "But I find your way of reading curious." She raised an eyebrow in question.

"Oh, yes," Cassi blushed furiously. "I have an eidetic memory," she explained, fidgeting nervously.

Narcissa seemed genuinely surprised. "You are a girl of surprises, aren't you?"

Cassi blushed even more, if that was possible. At this moment, she could probably pass for a tomato.

"You know, we don't know each other much beyond what we exchanged in letters and what I managed to get from Sirius and my mother," she said, fidgeting with her fingers nervously, trying to express herself.

"You asked about me around?" Narcissa asked playfully.

"I - I..." Cassi stammered, unsure how to respond. "Why do you do this to me?" she asked, frustrated.

"Do what, love?" Narcissa teased, leaning in and resting her head on her hands, while she scrutinized Cassiopeia more closely.

"This!" Cassi pointed at her, not quite knowing how to describe her feelings.

"But I'm not doing anything, sweet," she replied with a voice filled with sarcasm, giving Cassiopeia a devilish look.

Cassi slumped back into the armchair, giving up on trying to fully understand. "Come on, tell me more about yourself. Please."

"Oh, I like seeing you beg. I'll save that for later," Narcissa commented, almost whispering to herself. Cassiopeia felt a gasp escape her at the insinuation.

"What do you want to know, love?" she asked, softening her expression and smiling at Cassi in a captivating manner.

They spent hours talking about everything and nothing. Cassiopeia discovered that Narcissa had actually received training as a healer before getting married but she actually loved potions. She was a certified master and everything. She loved the rain, and her middle name was Cassiopeia, which brought many laughs.

She was amazed to find out that Narcissa had an exceptional talent for sculpting. The older woman showed some of her favorite pieces, which were true works of art. Cassi was in awe as she admired them.

But she became a bit nervous when the topic of relationships came up, especially Narcissa's marriage to Lucius.

"Your marriage to Lucius?" Cassi asked timidly, apprehensive about the response.

"We love each other," Narcissa replied softly, "but not in the same way we once did." She sighed. "We keep up appearances for, well... for society in general. But we haven't shared the same bedroom for years."

Cassi felt somewhat relieved by this answer. There she was, becoming more and more entangled in an inevitable passion for Narcissa, and she feared it might be something impossible.

Then Narcissa brought up the topic of Fleur.

"Draco told me about a certain Fliur Debentur," Narcissa brought up suddenly, and Cassi let out a soft laugh and corrected her, "Fleur Delacour."

"Whatever," Narcissa dismissed. "So?" she asked sharply, making Cassi raise an amused eyebrow.

"So, what?" Cassi pretended to be confused.

"You know very well what I want to know, dear. Don't test me," Narcissa commanded.

Cassi analyzed her, quite amused. Narcissa loved to push her buttons but had not an ounce of patience in her own body.

"Oh, yes... Well, we exchanged a few kisses," Cassi replied softly, finding it hilarious how Narcissa's jaw clenched.

She's gorgeous.

"And?" Narcissa asked impatiently.

"It was just that. We exchanged some letters whenever possible. She's now working at Gringotts," Cassi explained, feeling sorry for the upholstery of the armchair under Narcissa's nails.

Something gleamed in the older woman's eyes. The same look when she saw the names in the letters.

"I see..." Narcissa scrutinized her closely. "And do you intend to... keep seeing her?"

"Yes, of course," Cassi replied with a smile, as Narcissa pursed her lips. "We've become friends. She's now dating Bill Weasley, they make a lovely couple."

Narcissa seemed relieved, and Cassiopeia had to stifle her laughter at the obvious jealousy from the woman.

"Are you jealous, Mrs. Malfoy?" she asked, feeling a sudden wave of courage.

Narcissa looked at her closely as she slowly got up. Cassi couldn't help but admire the dress that elegantly hugged her body, accentuating her slender figure. Honestly, that outfit should be illegal.

Then she stood in front of Cassiopeia, getting closer until their noses almost touched. Her hands elegantly resting on the armrests of the chair.

"I just take care of what belongs to me," she said softly, her voice wrapped in a melodic cadence.

"And do I belong to you?" Cassiopeia asked, tilting her head slightly to meet the older woman's intense gaze.

"Eventually, don't pretend you don't feel it, my dear," Narcissa whispered, her lips gently grazing the skin below Cassiopeia's ear, sending shivers down her body. "The magical electricity when we touch, the compulsion to be near..." She traced soft circles on her cheek with her thumb. "Ancient magic, blood bond... It means you are my soulmate, my love. You are mine."

Cassiopeia already suspected it, but to hear it... It was so much better, meaningful. Their gazes locked intensely as Narcissa gently held her cheek, making slow circles.

She didn't know who leaned in first, nor did she care. Their lips met softly, more tenderly than before, and Cassi felt that electric sensation all around her, permeating everything.

Then Narcissa straddled her lap, and any caution was thrown to the wind. Their kisses became more demanding, needy. Teeth pulling at her lips, making her whimper. Narcissa took advantage of this to explore her mouth with her tongue, making her moan again in the kiss.

Narcissa gently pulled away, their foreheads still touching as they caught their breaths.

"Sweet Salazar, what do you do to me?", she murmured breathless

Between breaths, Cassi whispered with a voice interrupted, "You know, I wonder the same about you," playfully teasing.

But then she observed how Narcissa was in her lap and moaned, "Narcissa..." she pleaded, almost in desperation.

"Not yet, sweet" sighed Narcissa, as if trying to convince herself. "Soon," she whispered, brushing her lips against Cassi's ear, sending shivers down her body.

"Come, let's sleep before I change my mind," Narcissa said, determinedly standing up and pulling Cassi with her, who pouted with a slight disappointment.

"Don't do that," she begged, feeling her own determination wavering. "You don't know how hard it has been to wait for you. Help me here," she pleaded, with a mixture of amusement and desperation in her voice.

Cassi nodded in understanding, but a mischievous smile spread across her face. She was determined to wait, but she wouldn't make it easy, not even in hell.

Approaching Narcissa until they were pressed firmly against each other, Cassi whispered breathlessly in her ear, "Whatever you want."

Then, as she felt Narcissa shudder, she gave a gentle kiss to the side of her neck. "Dream with me, will you?" she asked with a coquettish voice, and when Narcissa moaned, she tangled her fingers in the bicolor-haired woman's locks, pulling her into a fierce kiss, exploring every inch of her lips. She tugged at the older woman's lower lip with her teeth, making her gasp.

Then she looked at her with an innocent yet desire-laden gaze before pulling away and quickly leaving the library towards her room.

The last sound she heard as she walked away was Narcissa's whispered curse

"Fuck."