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Disclaimer: If you recognise it, surprise, I don't own it.
Chapter 107- Brushing Shoulders With The Upper Class.
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It was still the night of my Lockhart Gala, and so far, I had chatted to multiple people in the great hall and then had a private meeting with the Malfoys, but the night was far from over. Even further into the evening, I found myself in the elegantly appointed sitting room of the Cliffside Manor, surrounded by plush furnishings and the intoxicating aroma of rare magical plants. They did a good job making a tranquil space, and it seemed the Greengrasses truly enjoyed it. Astoria Greengrass sat across from me, her eyes sparkling with curiosity, while her sister, Daphne, leaned in attentively, listening, her face stone cold. Their mother, Mrs. Greengrass, observed me with a discerning look, clearly evaluating my every word.
"Thank you for attending, Greengrass family! It's a pleasure to discuss such an exciting collaboration. Your expertise in magical botanicals is quite renowned, and I must say, I'm rather keen to explore how our businesses can flourish together." I started nice and easy, eager to discuss business. Apparently, the man of the Greengrass family died during the war, and the mother now runs things. There is a lot of speculation about his death, some saying he was a Death Eater, that he was killed by Death Eaters, or even that his wife murdered him. Either way, I'll be using caution to deal with the woman.
Astoria leaned forward, an eager smile on her face. "I'm glad to see you again, Professor Lockhart. I've been following your work in the magical community for a long time, and I am glad to finally talk to you outside of a classroom." The girl said excitedly, hardly able to stop her legs from kicking where she sat on the sofa. Daphne remained silent, just placidly nodding her head, her body entirely still. An ice queen in the making, truly.
I give the younger girl a wink. "Ah, a fan of mine. I'll see about discussing my work with you later, dear. Indeed, I believe we should discuss collaboration. I believe that combining your unique plants with my… shall we say, captivating presentation skills could create a true spectacle! The Greengrass family could become the premier source for all herbology and potion needs." It seems a lot of my proposals are about publicity, but that is all these people really know me for, and I'm okay with that. I am a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Mrs. Greengrass finally interjects, her voice steady. "Let's not forget the importance of substance. While charm is lovely, the integrity of our products is what will ultimately attract attention. I truly believe that, and I don't want false representation of what we offer." She says, trying to make sure I won't be claiming the herbs are miracles capable of returning youth and other such things; she is actually the only one tonight who seems to have some integrity since no one else cared.
I start nodding earnestly. "Oh, absolutely! I wouldn't dream of undermining the quality of your magical plants or representing them as something they are not. I'm entirely aware that a foundation of excellence is paramount. the allure of my presence is simply to enhance your exquisite product line and make people aware of it." Astori smiles, clearly intrigued. "So, would that mean you would have to come visit us a lot?" She says her priorities are clear.
I make a show of leaning back, contemplating. "Yes, I suppose I might have to. Picture this: a series of events showcasing your finest plants paired with my storytelling. Each plant has a history and a charm, and I can bring those stories to life. People won't just see the plants; they'll experience them. Linking the plants to me and my experiences could make them very popular." I think it's a good idea, and my stories are bullshit anyway, so I can just make shit up; no one is fact-checking me.
Daphne raises an eyebrow and then finally speaks. "And what would be the theme for these events?" She says, her first words a question, being all business. I start to explain my vision enthusiastically. "I thought we might centre them around the idea of 'Wonders of the Wizarding World'. Each event could highlight a different plant, weaving in tales of their origins, magical properties, and unique uses, along with how I have made use of them personally in my life. People would be interested." It's true; the population does like the most minor, most stupid things about celebrities.
Evaline Greengrass looks to be considering. "That's an interesting approach. But how would you ensure it stands apart from other showcases?" I spoke sincerely, not using my flair now. "I intend to put my all into it. That means elaborate decorations, immersive environments, and perhaps even interactive experiences where guests can engage with the plants. I think my event tonight should be proof enough of what I am capable of. With my charisma and your beautiful creations, it would be an excellent venture!" My gala tonight is truly amazing; events going on all around us.
Astoria is nodding, her excitement growing. I love the idea. People are drawn to experiences." And Then Daphne speaks again. "But can you handle the logistics?" She questions, to which I grin confidently. "My dear, logistics are my forte! With the right team, I can ensure everything runs smoothly. I would manage the presentation aspect while you focus on the plants. A perfect division of labour!" I think this might be the only business I have put in motion tonight that I won't be doing any sly work since these girls all seem to have integrity and are actually nice.
Daphne's lips quirk up, her face changing for the first time this evening as she speaks in a monotone but somehow playfully. "And we won't have to worry about social calamities, I assume?" I respond with a laugh. "Rest assured, I've faced calamities of every sort. Consider me your charming shield against mishaps!" Astoria giggles at that, kicking her feet whilst the other two Greengrasses smile and Evaline sips her wine. And then, we began to talk more, expanding on our plans.
As the conversation flowed, I could see the Greengrass sisters growing more engaged, their interest piqued by the prospects of our collaboration. The room pulsed with potential, and I knew this partnership could lead to something truly remarkable. We were on the brink of something spectacular with their plants and my persona. I might actually be able to work with these people for a while, unlike the other scum I met tonight.
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I returned to the ballroom, which was alive with laughter, conversation, and the soft clinking of glasses; multiple people were crowded around different individuals, regaling the crowd with tales of magical disbelief and rumours, and I had no doubt quite a few of them were talking about me. The spotlight, as it always did, found me effortlessly, and I basked in its warmth; this body was used to it and actually craving it. A sea of admirers gathered around me as I moved, badgering me with questions and praise, and there wasn't a moment I wasn't the focus of attention. The robes I wore—resplendent emerald green—made me shine like a star. I grinned and talked to them, but it became too much after a while, and I managed to get away.
I moved over to a quiet corner with a glass of wine, finally getting a moment to myself. But then, like a shadow creeping through the crowd, a presence caught my attention. Madam Zabini. I had heard the whispers, of course—everyone had. Her name was a bit like a curse, muttered by those who knew too much of the tragic ends of her husbands. Or was it husbands? Rumour had it there were seven, but details were always murky. What I did know for sure was that her beauty was as dangerous as it was mesmerising. Chocolate skin that looked delicious, raven-black hair, emerald eyes that seemed to promise secrets and a smile that could either lure you into paradise or lead you to ruin.
She made her way toward me through the crowd, and I couldn't help but feel a flutter of unease ripple through my chest. "Gilderoy," she purred, her voice so smooth and controlled that it sent a shiver down my spine. "You've been so wonderfully elusive, haven't you?" She said as if I had been specifically avoiding her. However, I got the feeling she had had eyes on me all night and was simply waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. I would not have forgotten a woman like this, so I was sure this was my first time meeting her. However, somehow, it felt like she was a part of me that I never knew I was missing. She is very good at what she does.
I forced myself to remain calm, summoning the practised charm that had made me the man I was. "Madam Zabini," I said smoothly, offering my most dazzling smile. "A pleasure to finally meet you. I am glad to see someone of your great esteem decided to grace us with your presence tonight." She laughed, the sound like silk brushing against glass—delicate, but with an edge.
"Oh, I'm more than a guest tonight, Gilderoy. I find you… fascinating." She stepped closer, and I could feel the heat radiating from her. "Such a hero, aren't you? I wonder how long you'll remain untouched by life's more… complicated temptations." My pulse quickened. She was too close now, and her scent—roses, spice—was overpowering. For a moment, I forgot everything. My smile faltered. She was a temptation, wasn't she? More than I'd ever encountered before. I could almost hear my heart thudding in my chest. No. I couldn't let this happen. I was Gilderoy Lockhart, after all. A wizard, a celebrity, a man of impeccable self-control... when my life was on the line, and this woman was definitely a threat.
But then she took another step, and her lips brushed just too close to my ear as she whispered, "I've heard it's quite the thrill to be caught in a web of your own making." Her words—too dark, too enticing—almost broke me. I felt my breath hitch, my resolve slipping like sand through my fingers. What was it about her? Was it the promise of danger? The way she exuded power and control? I should've known better. I knew better.
I needed to break free. Now. Before I crossed the line, and then I knew I wouldn't be able to turn back.
"Madam," I stammered, stepping back just enough to regain some semblance of space. But she was relentless. Her hand shot out, fingers brushing against my wrist with a precision that was almost predatory. "Why so hasty?" she purred again, her voice dripping with an invitation I could no longer ignore. "After all, a man of your calibre must be curious about how far this game could go." This game? My head spun. She was playing with me, and I didn't know if I was about to win or lose. But I couldn't—no, I wouldn't—fall into her trap like the others. No matter how badly I wanted to.
I looked over her shoulder, seeking some excuse, some distraction to pull me out of this dizzying haze. My eyes locked on an eager reporter hovering nearby, clutching a quill and parchment as if waiting for an autograph. An escape. A lifeline. "I'm afraid I'm already committed to a full schedule of—" I glanced around quickly, grasping at anything that would get me away from her. "—meetings, and, well, other engagements."
I could see the amusement flicker in her eyes, the silent challenge there, but I wasn't going to let her win. Not tonight.
With one final, lingering look—almost like a promise of something far more dangerous than I was willing to acknowledge—I turned sharply and made my way through the crowd. My heart was racing, but my steps were quick and determined. Behind me, I could hear the faintest chuckle—soft, like the hiss of a snake ready to strike. It followed me, echoing in my mind as I moved toward the safety of the press, something I don't think anyone has ever done. I had escaped her web—for now. But I knew, deep down, that Madam Zabini would always be waiting. And next time… next time might be more challenging to resist.
I made my escape from Madam Zabini just in time, ducking into a small alcove where a reporter stood waiting—her eager eyes already trained on me. Perfect, an innocent young woman, well, she is a reporter, but she is innocent compared to Madam Zabini. The young woman, who introduced herself as Ophelia Valentine, barely contained her excitement. She was clutching her quill and parchment, looking like she might burst with questions. Ah, the magic of a well-timed exit. The perfect way to regain control of the narrative.
"Well, Mr Lockhart," she began, her voice slightly breathless, "It's an honour to speak with you. I have to say, I've always admired your work, but I'm especially intrigued by your recent venture into—how shall I put it?—magical finance? Can you tell us about that?" I smiled, inwardly pleased. The Gilderoy Lockhart brand had been expanding for some time now, and tonight's gala was only the tip of the iceberg. As the Wizarding World's preeminent adventurer, I wasn't content with simply writing books and attending fancy dinners. I was going to become the Kingpin of the magical world, and for that, I needed a good image, so I answered her question patiently and with a smile. She was absolutely taken with me.
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It had been hours since the night began, and I had decided to finally give up on any more interactions for the night. I feel I have done my fair share, and Andromeda should be happy. She is around here somewhere as well, but I haven't seen her since she is keeping a low profile. There is a reason for that, of course, and that is because all of the snooty purebloods would get angry at the sight of her, and things might go bad for us. This is why she has been keeping a low profile and conversing with the light-sided Purebloods here, with which she has a good relationship, and I was forced to interact with all the dark or neutral-sided Purebloods. Usually, I would be fooling around seducing a pretty lady, and I might have even fallen for Madam Zabini's trap, but I had actual work to do today.
And now I feel that work has been done, and so I am going to find a quiet room and relax for a while with a drink before journeying back out to find a woman to spend the night with and truly christen Cliffside Manor. I entered a small lounge which shouldn't have had anyone inside of it, but inside it, I found Narcissa Malfoy, who was uncharacteristically contemplative, a flicker of anger reflecting in her icy blue eyes as she stared out the window.
I take a moment to look at the woman, contemplating what I should do, and then I shrug my shoulders. This woman is clearly not happy with her husband; their marriage isn't a happy one; her sister Andromeda doesn't want to be with me, I don't like her husband, and she is apparently a fan of mine. I remember nearly a year ago, when I was on the Hogwarts train, Draco Malfoy came and requested me to sign a book for his mother. It seems like I just got the perfect start to a conversation.
I walked over, making sure I had on my best smile. "Narcissa, how are you liking the book?" Narcissa turns her gaze toward me, a frown tugging at her lips. "Book? I'm afraid I don't know what you are talking about, Gilderoy. I'm sorry, but I have been concerned with some pressing matters." She says, and I get the feeling she wants to be left alone, but when has that ever stopped me.
I note the tension in her posture, but I barge on ahead anyway." Ah, I'm sorry. Perhaps I can remind you. Your son requested me to sign a book during the year, and I was just wondering if you enjoyed receiving it from him." I remind her, and her face lights up. "Ah, yes, he gave it to me on my birthday. It was a nice surprise, he can be such a thoughtful boy." Her face softens as she talks about her son, and I see my way in.
"Yes, he can be. Though it is covered up by arrogance and vanity. I can see how given my earlier meeting with Lucius, but I can also see he gets his nicer qualities from you." I can't use my mind reading on her because she obviously has defences, so I am doing this by the seat of my pants. I managed to link the son she likes with the husband she dislikes, and now I have to insert myself in there. "Yes, Lucius spends most of his time on the business and hardly has time for me and Draco. Draco tries to emulate his father, but all he ever sees of him is the ruthless, cold businessman. Sometimes I wonder if I should take Draco to another house and distance him from his father" Narcissa opens up to me, and I am quick to respond. I am guessing the wine is loosening her lips.
"I can see why you'd feel that way. But I must say, you deserve more than to be overshadowed by your husband's pursuits." I inch a bit closer, but I don't touch. Narcissa raises an eyebrow, a hint of intrigue breaking through. "Do you think so?" I am getting the feeling she knows what I'm trying, but I do it anyway, leaning in a bit more, and lowering my voice. "Absolutely. A woman of your elegance shouldn't have to feel neglected. You have power, Narcissa. You could have anyone by your side, someone who truly values you." She knows what I am doing, but since she is letting me do it anyway, I decided not to waste any time and to shoot my shot. If she declines, I'll just go find someone else.
Narcissa scoffs lightly, though her defences do seem to soften. "And are you implying that's you, Gilderoy?" I smirk, my eyes locking with hers. "Perhaps it could be, at least for an evening. I find myself drawn to your strength. It's quite… intoxicating." A small smile flits across her face, though she quickly stifles it. "Is that so? You have a way with words, don't you? I'm sure many an innocent girl has been led astray by you." She says that, but she isn't being cold; she is smiling.
I cradle my chin in thought, trying to act mysterious. "Words have power, just like a well-cast spell. But it takes more than charm to speak to a woman like you, doesn't it?" Narcissa bites her lip slightly, her anger and other emotions momentarily forgotten, something else taking their place. "I suppose that depends on the intent behind those words." She says, laying out the bait, and I am quick to bite.
I notice her softened expression, and now it's now or never. "My intent is clear—I see you for who you truly are, not just as Mrs. Malfoy. You are a force to be reckoned with, and you deserve someone who recognises that. Someone who appreciates that, even if for just a night." Narcissa is now smirking slightly, leaning in a touch towards me. "Flattery will get you nowhere, Gilderoy." She says that, but she is closer than ever.
I respond with a playful grin. "I disagree. It could take me very far if I play my cards right." Narcissa's expression turns serious for a moment. "And how far do you think you can get?" The change in attitude is sudden, but I'm not one to back down, so holding her gaze, my tone softens. "I believe I could go all the way. You might find that letting someone like me in could open up a world beyond what your current life offers." I lay it out and wait for her to pick it up.
Narcissa is clearly intrigued, though still guarded. "Perhaps, but what would Lucius say? He's hardly the forgiving type. One wrong move and my life is very difficult." I wave a hand dismissively. "Lucius doesn't recognise the treasures he has right in front of him. If only he saw you as I do—an extraordinary woman, deserving of admiration and passion. But he is more focused on other things, he already doesn't notice you." Narcissa's eyes held mine for a moment longer, and I could feel her contemplation hanging in the air. My words struck her deeply.
Narcissa finally breaks away, a hint of mischief in her voice. "Well, I suppose we shall see if you live up to your own claims, won't we?" And then she begins to move away. As I watched her walk away, I couldn't help but feel the thrill of that moment linger, knowing the tension between us hadn't gone unnoticed. It was a dangerous game we played, but one that held an undeniable allure. And I'm not sure where we landed.
"Lead the way, Gilderoy. Show me this new world you were talking about." I know where we landed.
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We finally got to the haughty classic pureblood lady Narcissa, so you know what is going to happen next time. It took a long time, but we are finally here. Andromeda seems to remain firmly out of grasp though, hehe.
Aren't you guys lucky? Yes, you are, yes you are! Two uploads in a week. Been like a year since I did that, but I really do feel like I am getting back into the groove, and I am going to try writing my other fics this week as well, see if I can continue off where I left it. Let me know if you guys are looking forward to From The Smoke and Amarillo's Pirate Adventure returning! It will motivate me to work harder on it.
Upcoming Chapters:
Hero: Chapter 108- Unhappy Wife, My Happy Life. [R-18]
Super: Chapter 110- A New Journey?
Legendary: Chapter 112- The Arcane.
Galactic: Chapter 116- Voracious Vampires
Mythic: Chapter 117- A Meeting Beneath The Streets.
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That is all for now. I hope you enjoyed the chapter. I will see you in the next one!
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