The Boy Who Never Was - A Harry Potter Fanfic

At this Malfoy's knuckles were white and he had his eyes closed as his head looked like it was about to reach critical mass.

"I was told by my son that there were a few who were against him but 80 percent of the population amounts to more then a few, are you sure?" He asked through clenched... well everything.

"Yes sir. He has practically alienated himself from every muggleborn, which accounts for approximately 55 percent of the school. Furthermore, during the Dark Lord's rise, there was an explosive increase in half-bloods and muggleborns entering Hogwarts. This demographic shift has created a reality that Draco is failing to navigate properly. Those who claim to be his allies are, in truth, simply ingratiating themselves to secure the benefits of the Malfoy fortune. All of Draco's friends, sir, are practically bought. He has not built any genuine bonds; he has surrounded himself with sycophants." I replied

Lucius's face darkened to a deep shade of red, his lips pressing into a thin line as he processed the implications of my words. His eyes betrayed his anger which at this point was a hair trigger, though he impressively seemed to maintain his composure.

After some time, his expression seemed to go blank as his eyes started to form a very cold exterior.

This man was very displeased. I can tell the man was implementing occlumency just to get through this meeting at this point.

"I suspected Draco was being frivolous, but hearing this confirmed is... disappointing," he said coldly.

I gestured to Tracy. "Ms. Davis can elaborate further. She is well-acquainted with the house dynamics."

Tracy, still looking slightly overwhelmed by her inclusion in such an important meeting. It was no help whatsoever that Malfoy Senior looked to have been close to commit murder not to long ago. See him calm though allowed her to compose herself and spoke carefully.

"Mr. Malfoy, Draco has been very vocal about his views, and while a rare few may agree with him, others see it as reckless. Slytherin values cunning, the kind that strongly revolves around subtlety and alliances. Right now, Draco is viewed as more of a blunt instrument than a future leader. Those seeking power prefer finesse."

Tracy shifted even more uncomfortably in her seat as we could see Lucius still silently seething at the moment, but to her credit, she spoke up. "Mr. Malfoy, it's common knowledge within Slytherin. Draco often flaunts his wealth, and others take advantage of it. Some even joke that he's their personal Galleon bank."

Lucius's gaze snapped to her, sharp but not unkind. "And you? Do you partake in these... handouts?"

Tracy shook her head quickly. "No, sir. My family values independence. I don't like owing anyone anything. I don't need Draco's money. But I see what goes on around me. I'm just being honest."

I nodded in agreement. "Mr. Malfoy, I believe revealing this situation to you should serve as proof enough that neither Tracy nor I are working against Draco. We stand to gain nothing from this except ensuring that he finds his proper place at Hogwarts."

Lucius's eyes darkened. He leaned back, exhaling slowly. "It seems my son has been less forthcoming about these matters. This... alters my understanding of the situation." He paused for a moment, his expression still seemingly filled with anger beneath a finely veiled surface.

It took a moment as I allowed the silence to calm the situation instead of tossing more fuel into the fire. Not that I minded but I need me some advantages and an Angry Malfoy is of no use to me.

After a slight moment, his facial expression donned a mask of calm. Lucius was now a man gathering information, adapting his strategy.

"I apologize, I am not a wizard who likes being caught unawares." Lucius says with a bit of silk in his voice.

"I would like accurate updates on my son's standing moving forward, if possible. An unbiased account as I am seeing my owns sons reports to be..... unreliable."

I nodded. "I suggest Blaise Zabini for this task. He is respected, discreet, and unaffiliated with either Draco or myself. He will provide you with a fair and honest assessment and I am sure, he would appreciate the spare galleons. I will also assist by granting Heir Zabini with certain discounts inside Slytherin for certain products as an incentive to take on your task."

Lucius considered it, then inclined his head. "Agreed. You are far more perceptive than I expected, Mr. Kingston. I thank you for your honesty and I apologize for my lack of composure earlier."

I nodded firmly. "Absolutely. I only ask that you confirm the situation independently with other Slytherin parents. This will ensure Draco understands the reality from multiple sources, not just mine. Evidence is the best teacher."

Lucius's gaze lingered on me, his earlier annoyance giving way to a more measured respect. "Wise beyond your years, Mr. Kingston. Very well. I will handle this."

I extended my hand across the table. He took it, his grip firm and resolute.

"It is best to be joined by potential allies instead of being besot by only enemies and opportunists from all sides, wouldn't you agree?" I said.

Lucius listened, his face impassive. His expression grew thoughtful at my comments on the value of allies over enemies. After a brief pause, he offered a faint nod as he fixed his sleeves while he positioned his cane under his arm. 

"You would have made an ideal Slytherin, Mr. Kingston."

We came to an accord. I would help arrange an informant for Draco's situation and have a monthly report sent out.

As for the Vanishing Cabinet, He agreed to purchase it for me as long as I provided the galleons plus 15 percent interest. (This man learns fast)

Mr. Malfoy had proven to be far more perceptive and complex than I had initially given him credit for. My memories from my past life had painted the Malfoys in a one-dimensional light—arrogant, cruel, and obsessed with blood purity. But I was beginning to see those recollections were deeply biased. Draco, for all his flaws, had potential. He was not beyond redemption; he was simply misguided. While his parents had certainly shaped his worldview, the environment within Slytherin House and the broader pressures of Hogwarts played a role as well.

If there was one thing the books and movies had demonstrated, it was that the Malfoys—much like the Blacks—treasured family above all else. That loyalty had driven their decisions, even when it placed them in peril. Why else would Lucius hesitate when Voldemort seemed on the brink of victory? Why would Narcissa risk everything to lie about Harry's survival? They could have ensured their position in the new regime, yet they chose their son instead.

Lastly, Lucius may be cunning, sly and cruel at times, but a fool he was not. Nor will he tolerate being seen as one.

I resolved not to villainize Draco or his family without cause. They were not blameless, but neither were they irredeemable. Until proven otherwise, I would afford them the benefit of the doubt. 

As we both came out of the room, Malfoy and Narcissa walked up to Lucius.

Lucius seeing his son, seemed to clench his jaws very tightly.

Draco, dense as a brick doesn't seem to notice.

"Father, can I get a new broom now?" Draco asked excitedly.

Me, noticing that Draco might have just uttered his very last phrase stepped in quickly.

"Tom!! Can you please be so kind as to get Lord Malfoy here your finest bottle of Fire Whiskey?" 

Tom who had noticed my forced expression just nodded and fetched a bottle to me post haste.

I handed the bottle to him generously.

"Lord Malfoy, it was an absolute pleasure meeting you today," I said with a generous smile then I lowered my volume to a hush.

"but perhaps it might be best to handle your matters, not in the open?"

Malfoy seeing his current situation was appreciative of this cover and forced a smile.

"Yes, of course. Dear, Draco, I am feeling a bit peckish right now. We are going home."

Draco looking about to protest was abruptly stopped by a quick silencing charm I casted on him.

Malfoy senior did not miss this but many seemed to have.

Lord Malfoy just put his arm around Draco and led him out the Leaky cauldron before apparating with Draco and his wife.

Hermione who saw this whole interaction came over and asked Tracy.

"What was all that about?" Hermione asked

"Remember Draco's catchphrase?"

"Yeah."

"Well, His father has definitely heard everything now."

Hermione hissed at hearing this as she turned to me.

"That's Evil." she said with a smirk