N/a: liliah & Ominis didn't die obviously they just went into hiding for this long letting the dark Lord assume things and liliah gave her ancient magic up to Kenzie and Kenzie assumed she died to throw off anyone listening to her and professor Dumbledores conversation that night in his office
PS, I got tired of writing professor Dumbledore so it's Albus now after this just like anything any one that is professor will by their first name
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POV:
Kenzie enters professor Dumbledore's office
"Hello, Kenzie. What brings you here?" says professor Dumbledore
"Well professor I fear someone's going to kill you eventually." Says Kenzie
"Yes I know, Kenzie. I planned for this up until now." Says professor Dumbledore
"Wait what, You did? But professor.. " - Kenzie gets cut off by professor Dumbledore
"No buts, I prepared for this and I knew it was coming but I know who will do the job. Promise me that you will be there for Harry when he needs you because I know after this the future will go down hill" says professor Dumbledore
"I promise professor Dumbledore" says Kenzie
Professor Dumbledore nods with a sigh
Kenzie clutches her robes but doesn't dare go against him
"Professor McGonagall already knows and now you do to just don't tell a soul" says professor Dumbledore
"Of course" says Kenzie
Kenzie stands frozen after giving her promise. The air feels heavier now, the weight of destiny thick around them.
Professor Dumbledore rises slowly from his chair. The glow of the runic lamps casts silver across his long, worn robes.
"There is something else you must understand, Kenzie. The one who comes for me… it is not a simple assassin. It is someone the Council once trusted." Says professor Dumbledore
Kenzie flinches.
"A betrayer? From within Hogwarts?" Says Kenzie
Dumbledore turns toward the window, watching the storm brewing beyond the spires.
Yes. And their fall will shake this place to its foundations. When it happens, the students will need guidance more than ever—especially Professor Dumbledore
Kenzie steps forward, anxiety tightening in her chest.
"Professor? But he's only just learned to summon light. How could he be involved in any of this" says Kenzie
Dumbledore gives her a weary but knowing smile.
"Because he carries a burden he does not yet understand. And you… you are one of the few who can help him bear it." Says professor Dumbledore
Kenzie grips the edge of her sleeve, knuckles whitening.
"I don't know if I'm ready for that responsibility." Says Kenzie
Dumbledore turns back to her, eyes soft but firm.
"No one ever is. But the future listens closely to those who act in spite of fear." Says professor Dumbledore
A sudden rumble echoes through the tower—distant, but powerful enough to make the floor tremble.
Kenzie's head snaps toward the door.
"What was that?" Says Kenzie
Dumbledore's expression darkens.
The wards. Someone is testing them.
He moves to a crystalline orb on his desk, placing his hand over it. The surface ripples, showing flashes of shadowy movement outside the academy gates.
"It seems our timeline has… accelerated." Says professor Dumbledore
Kenzie's breath catches.
"Then what do we do?" Says Kenzie
Professor Dumbledore looks at her with the solemnity of someone who has already accepted his fate.
"You prepare. And you listen carefully to what I'm about to tell you next…" says Professor Dumbledore
The orb in Dumbledore's hand pulses with dark ripples. Shadows spiral across its surface.
Kenzie swallows, forcing herself closer.
"What is it you need to tell me?" Says Kenzie
Dumbledore hesitates—rare for him. When he speaks, his voice is quieter, almost fragile.
"There is a relic hidden beneath this academy. An old one. Older than the Council, older than any known spellcraft. It is called the Resurrection stone." Says professor Dumbledore
Kenzie's eyes widen.
" wait I have that." Says kenzie
"i know but you can't give it to me. It has to be on harry" Says professor Dumbledore
kenzie nods as she teleports to Gaunt manor knowing Andrew might be their so she set aside their differences.
==================================
Meanwhile with Ruby & Andrew
The torches along the corridor sputter low, barely lighting the carved snakes curled along the stone walls. The castle is quiet—too quiet—and the only sound is Ruby Weasley's heels clicking against the flagstones as she enters the forgotten classroom.
Inside, Andrew Gaunt is already waiting, leaning against an ancient desk as if he owns the place.
He doesn't look at her at first. He never does.
Ruby closes the door with a soft thud.
RUBY:
"You're late."
Andrew finally glances at her, jaw tight, eyes sharp and stormy.
He doesn't apologize. He never does that either.
ANDREW:
"I don't answer to anyone, Ruby."
She steps closer, slow, and deliberate. There is no fear in her—only an unsettling calm that always seems to unravel him.
RUBY:
(smiling faintly)
"You answer to me. You always have."
He scoffs, but his fingers tense on the edge of the desk. His defiance is instinctive; his reaction to her is something deeper, harder to fight. Ruby notices—she always notices—and the corner of her mouth lifts.
She stops just in front of him, close enough that he can feel her breath against his throat. Close enough that the space between them hums with something dangerous.
ANDREW:
"You think you can control me?"
RUBY:
"I don't think. I know."
Her hand rises—slow, deliberate—pausing near his jaw, hovering, not touching.
The almost of it electrifies the room.
Andrew's breath falters for a heartbeat. He hates that she can pull that from him.
She loves that he can't hide it.
ANDREW:
(low)
"You push too far."
Ruby steps even closer, their bodies nearly brushing.
RUBY:
"And you don't push back nearly enough."
For a long moment, the air between them coils tight—power tangled with desire, challenge laced with heat.
Andrew's gaze drops to her mouth, brief but unmistakable.
Ruby sees it.
She always sees everything.
RUBY:
"Tell me again you don't listen to me."
He doesn't answer.
He can't.
Not when she's this close, and not when every part of him is fighting itself—anger, attraction, wanting, resenting.
Ruby's smile turns slow and knowing.
RUBY:
"That's what I thought."
Andrew breaks eye contact first, but only to exhale—a slow, unsteady breath that betrays more than he'd ever admit. Ruby watches him carefully, the way a serpent watches a mouse that thinks it has options.
She brushes past him without touching, her cloak grazing his arm.
Even that brief contact sends a sharp ripple through him.
Ruby circles the room, her footsteps unhurried, as though she's giving him time to regain composure he never actually lost—because she took it.
RUBY:
"You know what the real problem is, Andrew?"
He doesn't answer. He knows better by now—she'll tell him anyway.
She turns, leaning back against an old desk, arms folded elegantly, emerald earrings glinting in the dim light.
RUBY:
"You pretend not to care."
Andrew finally looks back at her.
A mistake.
ANDREW:
"I don't pretend to do anything."
Ruby tilts her head, amused.
RUBY:
"Of course you do."
You act like you're above all this… above me.
But the moment I step closer—
She takes a single step toward him, slow, deliberate.
RUBY:
"—you forget how to breathe."
His jaw tightens.
She's right, and worse, she knows it.
ANDREW:
"You think too highly of yourself."
RUBY:
(smiling softly)
"No. I think highly of you. That's why this is so much fun."
Andrew moves before she expects it—pushing off the desk and closing the distance between them in two quick strides. Now he's the one standing too close, looking down at her, the air between them charged and sharp.
For a heartbeat, Ruby seems surprised.
Then her eyes darken—pleased.
ANDREW:
(low, intense)
"I'm not your puppet."
RUBY:
(quiet, dangerous)
"I never asked for a puppet.
Just someone who stops lying to himself."
Andrew's breath catches—not in fear, but in something far more volatile. His hand lifts as if to touch her face, then hesitates, hovering just shy of her skin. The space between them feels like it might ignite.
Ruby doesn't move back.
She raises her chin, letting the moment tighten like a trap.
"Go on, then.
Show me how much you don't care." Says ruby
Andrew's fingers tremble—not from weakness, but from restraint.
He drops his hand before contact, swearing under his breath.
Ruby smiles—slow, victorious, and impossibly soft.
"Exactly. The torches flare again, casting their shadows along the stone walls—two figures locked in a battlefield where no spell is needed and surrender is far more dangerous than any curse." Says ruby
Later in the night
The room is dusty, long-forgotten — but the green glow from the Black Lake still leaks through the windows like a ghost no one asked for.
RUBY, moves with a predatory calm. Her coat drips from the rain outside.
ANDREW, likewise grown and sharper around the edges, stands near the fireplace, drying his wand with a faint smirk.
Ruby doesn't bother hiding her annoyance — or the way she takes him in.
RUBY:
"I told you the relic was mine."
(slow, deliberate)
"You had one job: don't interfere."
Andrew laughs under his breath — a deep, knowing sound.
ANDREW:
"And you still think you get to control me?"
Ruby steps closer. Andrew doesn't move — if anything, he straightens, chest rising.
Their faces are inches apart now. A challenge. A temptation.
RUBY:
"You listen to me. Eventually."
(leans in, almost brushing his lips)
"Even if I have to make you."
Andrew's jaw tightens — not with anger, but with the effort of not giving in.
ANDREW:
"You always push too close."
(tilts his head, voice low)
"And you hate that I never back down."
Ruby's hand lifts — she almost touches his collar, but stops just shy. The air between them is molten.
RUBY:
"You don't back down because you want this fight."
(smirks)
"You want me. On your terms."
ANDREW:
"Or maybe I want you off-balance."
(leans in, lips a breath from hers)
"That's where you're most dangerous."
A long, electric pause.
Ruby's breath trembles — just once — before she masks it.
RUBY:
"If you're done testing me… bring me the relic. Now."
Andrew's smile is slow, wicked, and intimate.
ANDREW:
"Make me."
Ruby's eyes darken — challenge accepted.
They stand locked in a magnetic standoff, neither willing to break the tension that's been simmering for a decade.
Ruby's control snaps first.
She grabs Andrew's collar and pulls him in, crashing her mouth against his. It's fierce, angry, hungry — all the things she's held back
Andrew inhales sharply — almost a growl, low in his throat — as though the kiss is something he's been daring her to try.
He doesn't hesitate long.
His hand slides to her waist, gripping firmly as he reverses their positions in one swift, dominant movement. Ruby's back hits the stone wall with a dull thud — she gasps, surprised but far from resisting.
Andrew cages her in with his body, one arm braced beside her head, the other holding her hip. His lips reclaim hers — deeper this time, deliberate, answering every bit of her fire.
ANDREW:
(barely above a whisper, against her lips)
"About time you broke first."
Ruby's fingers curl into his shirt, pulling him even closer, refusing to let him have the last word even now.
RUBY:
(breathless, defiant)
"Don't get used to it."
He smirks against her mouth, and the kiss turns hotter, sharper, fueled by years of hatred, desire, and things neither of them will admit out loud.
The wall vibrates with their tension — but the moment stays just on the razor's edge, dangerous and intoxicating.
Their breaths mingle in fast, uneven bursts. Ruby's back is pressed to the cold stone, Andrew's body flushed against hers, the air thick with heat and defiance.
Andrew pulls back only an inch — just enough to make her feel the absence. His eyes sweep over her face, sharp, questioning, hungry.
ANDREW:
(voice rough)
"You sure you want this?"
Ruby lets out a shaky, humorless laugh.
RUBY:
"I wouldn't have kissed you if I didn't."
Andrew searches for her expression, and something flickers in his — something rare, something he immediately smothers.
He presses his forehead to hers.
His hand on her hip tightens.
ANDREW:
"You're going to regret it."
Ruby's lips brush his in a teasing, defiant ghost of a kiss.
RUBY:
"I already regret not doing it sooner."
That breaks whatever restraint Andrew had left. He kisses her again — slower this time, deeper, but still charged with that dangerous edge only they understand.
Ruby lifts a hand to the back of his neck, dragging her nails lightly against his skin. Andrew shivers — barely, but she feels it.
He pulls back again, breathing hard.
ANDREW:
(softly, dangerously)
"We shouldn't do this."
Ruby smirks, eyes gleaming.
RUBY:
"Then push me away."
He doesn't.
Instead, he rests his hands on either side of her head — trapping her without touching her.
A silent war. A pull neither can escape.
ANDREW:
(low, intense)
"You always did like playing with fire."
RUBY:
"And you always liked getting burned."
They stare at each other — inches apart, hearts pounding, the years of hatred and attraction colliding in one breathless standoff.
Finally, Andrew exhales sharply, frustration and desire tangled in his voice.
ANDREW:
"This changes everything."
Ruby lifts her chin, refusing to show the tremor in her chest.
RUBY:
"Good."
A beat. Their lips hover close — not kissing, not pulling away — suspended on the edge of something neither can undo
The fire has burned lower. Shadows stretch across the stones, long and heavy.
Ruby stands by the old mantel now, pacing in a tight, controlled line.
Andrew sits on the edge of a dusty sofa, elbows on his knees, head lowered as if wrestling with something he never wanted to face.
The air between them feels different — charged but fragile.
Ruby stops pacing.
RUBY:
(quiet, irritated)
"Why are you brooding?"
Andrew lifts his gaze. There's no smirk this time. Just something rawer, more dangerous.
ANDREW:
"Because I'm trying to decide if kissing you was a mistake…"
(beat)
"…or inevitable."
Ruby's pulse kicks. She folds her arms, masking the way her breath catches.
RUBY:
"You didn't seem conflicted when you pinned me to that wall."
Andrew rises slowly — every movement deliberate, grounding. He approaches Ruby, but not as aggressively as before. There's a different tension now. A slower pull.
He stops in front of her, close, but not touching.
ANDREW:
"That was instinct."
*His voice dips lower.*
"Years of wanting to shut you up… or drag you closer. It didn't matter which."
Ruby's eyes flick down to his mouth involuntarily. Andrew notices — a spark igniting.
RUBY:
(scoffs, too soft)
"Don't flatter yourself."
Andrew steps even closer. Ruby's back meets the mantel before she realizes she's moved.
ANDREW:
"You kissed me, Ruby."
*A whisper, intoxicating.*
"And you don't do anything you don't want."
A muscle works in Ruby's jaw. She hates how easily he can read her. Hates how right he is.
RUBY:
"Fine."
*She lifts her chin.*
"So what now, You think this changes everything?"
Andrew breathes out, slow and hot against her cheek. His hand lifts — hovers near her face — but he doesn't touch her. Not yet. The restraint is its own kind of tension.
ANDREW:
"I think it changes what happens next."
Ruby's heartbeat thunders.
She shouldn't ask. But she does.
RUBY:
"And what exactly happens next?"
Andrew finally lets his fingers brush her jaw — the lightest touch, but it sends a shiver through her spine.
ANDREW:
"That depends."
Ruby's voice catches despite her best effort.
RUBY:
"On what?"
Andrew's lips hover just beside hers — not kissing her, just close enough to feel like a promise.
ANDREW:
"On whether you kiss me again…"
(soft growl)
"Or try to run."
Ruby's eyes darken. She leans in, breath trembling with conflict and desire.
RUBY:
"I don't run."
Andrew's smile is slow. Dangerous. Knowing.
ANDREW:
"Good."
*He tilts his head, lips brushing the corner of her mouth.*
"Because I'm not done with you."
Their foreheads touch — heat building again, palpable and irresistible — right on the edge of breaking.
~In the morning~
A faint sunlight seeps through the windows. The storm outside has quieted.
Ruby sits on the old bed, legs drawn up, a blanket draped loosely around her shoulders. Her hair is tousled, her expression unreadable — sharp, wary, but softer around the edges in ways she clearly hates.
Andrew stands near the window, shirt half-buttoned, running a hand through his hair. He looks equally unsettled — and equally unwilling to show it.
For a long moment, neither speaks.
They don't have to.
The silence says everything.
Andrew turns slowly, eyes locking onto Ruby's. There's tension, but a different kind now — stretched thin and intimate, the kind that comes after a night where boundaries shattered and nothing stays the same.
ANDREW:
(low)
"So… we're really doing this?"
Ruby scoffs, but it lacks her usual venom.
RUBY:
"Doing what, exactly?"
Andrew steps closer, stopping in front of her. Ruby doesn't pull away — but her breath tightens.
ANDREW:
"This."
*He gestures between them.*
"Whatever last night was."
Ruby exhales, long and controlled, like she's steadying herself before casting a dangerous spell.
RUBY:
"Last night was a mistake."
(beat)
Andrew's mouth twitches — not quite a smile, not quite a smirk.
ANDREW:
"If it was a mistake, you wouldn't look at me like that."
Ruby's jaw tightens. She rises, stepping into his space, refusing to let him have the advantage.
RUBY:
"You're the one staring like you want it to happen again."
Andrew's voice drops to a murmur.
ANDREW:
"It will."
*He leans in, lips near her ear.*
"You know it. I know it."
Ruby shivers — barely — but she hates that he feels it.
She pulls back, expression guarded and dangerous.
RUBY:
"This doesn't mean we're allies."
ANDREW:
(smiles darkly)
"Wouldn't want that."
*A beat.*
Ruby crosses her arms, suspicious.
RUBY:
"Something twisted."
Andrew steps closer, brushing a stray lock of hair from her cheek — slow, deliberate, claiming.
ANDREW:
"Something that works."
She swallows — tension coiling again.
RUBY:
"For now."
ANDREW:
"For as long as you can handle it."
Ruby's eyes flash — challenge accepted.
RUBY:
"Oh, I can handle you."
Andrew's voice deepens.
ANDREW:
"We'll see."
They stand inches apart — not quite touching, not quite pulling away — bound by a night they won't admit changed everything.
Their partnership has shifted.
Their rivalry has sharpened.
And whatever they are now… it's dangerous for both of them.
After that encounter they never happened again until ruby growls jealous seeing a girl all over andrew
Ruby enters, her coat dripping rain, eyes sharp as knives.
She wasn't planning to come here tonight.
She certainly wasn't expecting this.
Across the room, Andrew sits at the bar — relaxed, leaning back slightly, a half-finished non alcoholic drink beside him. A pretty brunette witch stands between his knees, laughing too loudly, pressing too close, twirling her hair as she touches his chest.
Ruby's jaw clamps tight.
A low, involuntary growl curls in her throat — quiet, but deadly.
She doesn't approach at first.
She just watches.
The way Meghan leans closer.
The way Andrew doesn't shove her off.
The way Ruby's stomach twists, hot and furious.
Finally, the brunette giggles, leaning forward to whisper in his ear. Andrew smirks faintly — polite, but detached.
That's when Ruby moves.
Her heels strike the wooden floor with each controlled, lethal step. The crowd parts instinctively, sensing the storm coming.
She stops directly behind the girl.
RUBY:
(low, venomous)
"Move."
The brunette whips around, startled. Ruby's gaze could cut diamonds.
Meghan:
"Uh— excuse me?"
Ruby doesn't blink.
RUBY:
"I wasn't asking."
Meeghan falters. Andrew's eyebrows rise slightly — amused, intrigued, not intervening. He's testing Ruby, and he knows she knows.
The brunette sputters and takes a tiny step back. Ruby immediately steps into the space, placing herself between them and the bar, facing Andrew.
She leans a hand beside his drink, leaning in close — closer than the other woman ever dared.
Her voice is quiet, but there's fire behind every syllable.
RUBY:
"Enjoying yourself?"
Andrew studies her face — the jealousy she's trying and failing to mask.
ANDREW:
(smiles slowly)
"I didn't know you were coming."
Ruby's nostrils flare.
RUBY:
"If I had, you wouldn't have had… company."
Andrew glances past her at the retreating girl, then back at Ruby.
ANDREW:
"She was just talking."
RUBY:
"She was touching you."
ANDREW:
"And?"
Ruby steps closer, almost nose-to-nose, her anger vibrating through the air.
RUBY:
"And I didn't like it."
There. She said it.
Andrew's eyes darken in satisfaction — not cocky, but something deeper and more dangerous.
He lifts a hand, brushing a strand of Ruby's hair behind her ear — a slow, intimate gesture that makes her breath hitch.
ANDREW:
"You sure it's jealousy?, Or just… territorial?"
Ruby growls softly, gripping his collar — not hard, but possessive.
RUBY:
"Both."
Andrew's smile is slow and wicked.
ANDREW:
"Good."
Ruby releases his collar, but stays close, voice dropping to a warning whisper.
RUBY:
"Next time someone touches you like that…
she glances toward the girl
…I won't be so polite."
Andrew chuckles — low, dark, pleased.
ANDREW:
"I didn't realize you were claiming me."
Ruby steps even closer, lips near his ear.
RUBY:
"I'm not."
(beat)
"But she doesn't get to try."
Andrew's breath stutters — just for a second.
Their eyes lock, heat simmering between them again — even sharper than before.
Andrew's dark chuckle cuts off abruptly.
Something shifts in his expression — not cold, not cruel, but resolved in a way Ruby has never seen before.
He looks at her with a seriousness that makes the air around them feel heavier.
ANDREW:
(low, steady)
"I'm getting married next week, Ruby."
The words hit her like a curse.
Ruby's entire body goes still — no breath, no sound, just stunned silence.
Then—
RUBY:
(sharp, breathless)
"What— why?"
Andrew's eyes flicker away for a moment, as if he hates the explanation he's about to give.
ANDREW:
"Pure-blood Gaunt rules.
(He lifts his drink, but doesn't sip)
"It's arranged. Obligated. Not exactly" negotiable."
Ruby's heart pounds hard enough to shake her composure. Her hands curl into fists at her sides.
RUBY:
"You can't."
Her voice cracks — just slightly — and she hates that he hears it.
Andrew looks at her now, really looks.
Expecting anger.
Maybe expecting indifference.
He doesn't expect what comes next.
RUBY:
"…Marry me."
(Her voice is low, urgent, trembling with something dangerously close to vulnerability.)
"I'm a pure-blood."
Andrew freezes. The tavern noise fades around them.
ANDREW:
"Oh?"
It's not a mocking "oh."
It's a stunned one.
A soft one.
The kind that hides a thousand questions underneath.
Ruby steps closer, her jaw tight, her brows pulled together, eyes burning with fury and fear she refuses to name.
RUBY:
"Don't act surprised. You heard me."
Andrew swallows, Adam's apple shifting. His voice is rougher now.
ANDREW:
"Ruby… do you even know what you're saying?"
RUBY:
"Yes."
(She glares, breath shaking.)
"I'm saying you are not marrying someone else because of some dead family's tradition."
Andrew looks away for a moment — like he needs to break eye contact to stay sane.
ANDREW:
(quiet)
"It's more complicated than that."
RUBY:
"It's simple."
(She grabs his collar, pulling him just close enough to feel her anger, her fear, her claim.)
"You want me. I want you. We fit the bloodline. Let the Gaunts argue with that."
Andrew closes his eyes — not in annoyance, but in torment. When he opens them again, they're darker than before.
ANDREW:
"And what if I said yes?"
(A whisper, dangerous.) "What then?"
Ruby's pulse jumps.
RUBY:
"Then you'd be mine."
Andrew leans in, their lips a breath apart, his voice breaking into a low, conflicted growl.
ANDREW:
"And you'd be mine?"
Ruby doesn't back away.
RUBY:
"I already am."
The words hang between them — raw, shocking, real.
Andrew's breath catches.
Ruby's eyes flicker, terrified she said too much, but unable to take it back.
A long, trembling heartbeat passes.
ANDREW:
(soft, shaken) "Ruby… you may have just changed everything."
==========================================
A vast room of pale stone, lit by floating green lanterns. The ceilings stretch high, carved with serpents and ancient runes. The air carries the weight of ancestral expectation.
Andrew stands beside Ruby as they enter — his posture rigid, controlled, but his hand brushing hers just enough to steady her.
Three members of the Gaunt family come forward — all dressed elegantly, all with sharp eyes that have seen too much history.
LORD GAUNT, tall, severe but strangely gracious, steps closer and lifts Ruby's hand politely.
Ominis: "Miss Ruby… Weasley, is it?"
(smiles faintly)
"We've heard impressive things."
Ruby stiffens at the name Weasley, expecting derision — but instead, Lady Gaunt steps in with a warm smile.
Liliah: "A pure-blood with spine. Rare these days."
(leans toward Andrew) "She suits you far better than we imagined."
Andrew glances at Ruby, a flicker of something smug — or relieved — crossing his face.
Then the air shifts.
A cold presence seems to materialize beside the Gaunts.
ALEXA MALFOY: "Andrew's arranged fiancée."
Tall. Elegant. Perfectly pressed platinum-blonde hair. And eyes full of pure, razor-edged hatred as they settle on Ruby.
Ruby's jaw tightens.
ALEXA:
(chilly, sharp) "A Weasley?"
*She looks Ruby up and down like she's dirt on a shoe.*
"How quaint."
Ruby doesn't flinch — if anything, she smirks.
RUBY: "Malfoy."
(tilts her head, unimpressed)
"I'm shocked they let you in without a mirror."
Andrew chokes on a sound — half cough, half amused laugh he tries desperately to hide.
Alexa's eyes flash with fury.
ALEXA:
(to the Gaunts) "Surely this is a joke. A Weasley cannot marry into the Gaunt line. Her blood is tainted-
Ominis:
(cutting her off)
"Pure, And stronger than many old families like ours."
*His gaze sharpens.*
"Do not insult our guests under our roof."
Alexa's jaw clenches, lips trembling with restrained outrage.
Ruby steps closer — not enough to touch, but enough to make Alexa instinctively lean back.
RUBY:
(smiling sweetly)
"Is there a problem?"
Alexa glares daggers at Andrew.
ALEXA:
"Andrew. You failed to mention you were… entertaining strays."
Ruby moves so fast Alexa doesn't see it — she's suddenly right there, nose-to-nose, voice low and lethal.
RUBY:
"I'm not a stray."
(leans in closer) "I'm the one he chose."
Alexa's cheeks flush with rage.
ALEXA:
"He can't choose you. He has to marry me".
Andrew steps forward now, voice dangerously calm.
ANDREW:
"Actually, Alexa…"
(looks at Ruby, then back at her)
"Things have changed."
Alexa goes pale.
ALEXA:
"You wouldn't dare."
Andrew holds Ruby's gaze — steady, burning, unmistakably choosing a side.
ANDREW:
"Watch me".
Alexa recoils as if physically struck.
Ruby's breath stutters — just for a second — at how fiercely Andrew said it.
Lady Gaunt clasps her hands together, delighted.
Liliah:
"Well!"
(claps lightly)
"It seems we have much to discuss. Ruby, dear, walk with me."
Alexa shoots Ruby a promising war.
Ruby returns it with a promising victory.
Andrew leans toward Ruby, whispering so only she can hear.
ANDREW:
(low, dark) "You're in this now. No turning back".
Ruby whispers back, eyes blazing.
RUBY: "I wasn't planning to turn back."
They hold each other's stare — tense, intimate, inevitable — while Alexa seethes behind them.
Liliah Gaunt leads Ruby down a long hall lined with portraits of grim, regal ancestors. The torches flicker greenish light, casting sharp shadows.
They reach a tall set of carved doors.
Liliah Gaunt pushes them open.
Inside, the room is lavish — emerald velvet, gleaming silver, a chandelier of floating serpent-shaped lanterns.
And in the center, seated on an ornate chair like a throne, is KENZIE GAUNT.
Andrew's twin sister.
She is dressed in a deep green gown embroidered in gold, a royal crown glittering on her dark hair. Her posture is flawless, chin held with the kind of poise only power can teach.
She looks up slowly as Ruby enters.
Kenzie's eyes — sharp like Andrew's, colder — sweep over Ruby with clinical precision.
Ruby realized she knows Kenzie from Hogwarts but doesn't say anything as Kenzie knew ruby too but she decided not to ruin this
KENZIE:
"So." (She exhales dramatically, leaning back.) "You want me testing this low-status girl?"
She side-eyes lilah Gaunt with disdain, her glare enough to make the room feel colder.
Ruby stiffens — but doesn't look away.
Lady Gaunt sighs, hands folded.
Liliah:
"Kenzie, darling, Ruby is not low-status. She is a pure-blood from a respectable house".
Kenzie scoffs loudly.
KENZIE:
"Respectable?"
*She gestures at Ruby as if she's some market item.*
"She's a Weasley. Their blood is ancient, sure, but their reputation is…"
(she wrinkles her nose)
"let's call it humble".
Ruby's eyes narrow.
RUBY: "At least my family didn't inbreed themselves into madness."
Kenzie freezes.
Lady Gaunt nearly chokes.
Kenzie rises slowly from her throne-like chair, her crown catching the light in a glittering halo that makes her seem even more intimidating.
She steps toward Ruby — graceful, predatory, trained.
KENZIE:
(soft, dangerous) "You have quite a mouth."
RUBY:
(deadpan) "Andrew seems to like it."
Kenzie's eyebrow twitches — the first crack in her royal composure.
She circles Ruby once, evaluating, studying, dissecting her presence.
KENZIE: "Hmm."
(tilts her head) "You're bold."
Ruby doesn't flinch.
RUBY:
"You asked to test me. Go ahead."
Kenzie stops in front of her, face only inches away, the regal poise replaced by something sharper, darker, almost serpentine.
KENZIE:
"Very well. But understand something, Ruby Weasley."
She lowers her voice, each word dripping with aristocratic venom.
KENZIE:
"My twin brother does not get to marry just anyone. You hurt him, you embarrass him, or you make him weak—
(Kenzie taps Ruby's chest lightly with one polished finger.)—and I will erase you from wizarding society so thoroughly your name will only be spoken as a cautionary tale."
Ruby's breath hitches for a moment — not in fear, but in fury held tightly under control.
RUBY: "And if I don't hurt him?"
Kenzie's gaze narrows.
KENZIE:
"Then I will tolerate you."
A long, tense silence.
Then, unexpectedly, Kenzie smiles — small, cold, but genuine in its own wicked way.
KENZIE:
"Prove you're worthy of Andrew. Prove you're worthy of us. Do that… and you might even survive being part of this family."
Ruby lifts her chin.
RUBY: "I don't break easily."
Kenzie's smile widens, almost pleased.
KENZIE: " Good. Because you're about to be tested"
The room is cavernous, lit by floating torches and lined with ancient relics. The air crackles with old magic and older expectations.
Kenzie stands at the far end, arms folded, crown glinting.
Ruby stands in the center, breathing hard, hair falling loose from the stress.
Around her are half-finished tasks:
A shattered crystal orb
A half-deciphered Gaunt family rune puzzle
A potion that keeps shifting colors unpredictably
A defensive spell that fizzled out halfway through the incantation
Ruby wipes sweat from her brow, frustrated.
RUBY: "You're testing me on things you know I've never studied."
Kenzie doesn't flinch.
KENZIE: "Of course."
(smirks)
"Anyone can pass a test they're prepared for. I'm evaluating who you are when you have no idea what you're doing."
Ruby stiffens, chest heaving.
RUBY: "And? What do you think so far?"
Kenzie walks around her, graceful and commanding, eyes flicking to each incomplete task.
KENZIE:
"You knew half of what I threw at you."
(tilts her head) "The other half…?"
She gestures at the chaos.
KENZIE: "A disaster."
Ruby's jaw tightens, humiliating flaring.
RUBY:
"If this is about making me feel small—"
KENZIE:
(interrupting, sharply)
"It isn't."
Ruby blinks, startled.
Kenzie stops in front of her, expression unexpectedly serious.
KENZIE:
"This is about seeing whether you lie…"
(She taps the broken crystal orb.)
"…cheat…"
*She nods at the rune puzzle.* "…or bluff your way into the family."
Ruby stares back, confused and angry.
RUBY: "And? Did I?"
Kenzie's gaze softens — not warmly, but almost respectfully.
KENZIE: "Not once."
Ruby's breath catches.
It's the closest thing to praise she's heard.
KENZIE: "Most people, when tested on something they cannot do, fake competence.
They pretend. They panic. They hide their failure."
Kenzie folds her hands behind her back.
KENZIE: "But you didn't. You confronted every task honestly. Even the ones that made you look foolish."
Ruby's eyes are narrow.
RUBY: "And that's what you were looking for?"
KENZIE: "Truth. Accountability. A spine."
She steps closer, lowering her voice.
KENZIE: "Andrew needs someone who won't flatter him or manipulate him.
Someone who faces impossible tasks head-on instead of pretending they can handle everything.
Someone who won't lie to him… even when it would be easier."
Ruby swallows hard.
Something in her chest loosens — just a little.
RUBY: "So… did I pass?"
Kenzie's lips curl into a slow, regal smile.
KENZIE:
"You survived. Which, in our family, is the same thing."
Ruby releases a shaky breath she didn't realize she'd been holding.
Kenzie gestures toward the door.
KENZIE: "Go. Andrew is waiting. He's been pacing outside like a cat on fire."
Ruby flushed slightly, annoyed and touched all at once.
As she reaches the door, Kenzie calls out one more time, the voice softer than before.
KENZIE: "Ruby?"
Ruby turns.
RUBY: "Yes?"
Kenzie lifts her chin.
KENZIE: "Don't lose that honesty.
It's the only thing that will keep Andrew — and this family — from destroying you".
Ruby meets her gaze steadily.
RUBY: "I don't break that easily."
Kenzie smirks.
KENZIE: "Good. You're going to need that."
Ruby steps out of the training chamber, still catching her breath.
Andrew is right there — leaning against the wall, arms crossed, jaw tight.
He tries to look relaxed… but his foot taps anxiously, betraying him.
When their eyes meet, he straightens immediately.
ANDREW: Finally.
Ruby raises an eyebrow.
RUBY: Were you waiting for me?
Andrew scoffs, but the sound cracks.
ANDREW: I was… monitoring. For safety.
(beat)
Ruby smirks, brushing past him — close enough that their shoulders nearly touch.
RUBY: we'll alright
Andrew's eyes narrow, an involuntary spark of possessiveness in them.
He grabs her wrist — not harshly, but enough to stop her.
ANDREW: What did she do?
Ruby turns to him, face unreadable.
RUBY: Tested me.
Andrew inhales sharply, tension tightening across his shoulders.
He looks like he wants to punch the wall… or drag Ruby away… or both.
ANDREW: Did she—
RUBY: (interrupting him) I passed.
Andrew freezes.
For a second, he says nothing.
Absolutely nothing.
Then—He lets out a breath like he's been holding it for hours.
ANDREW: Of course you did.
But his voice is too soft.
Too relieved.
Ruby tilts her head, watching him closely.
RUBY: You were worried.
He stiffens.
Immediately defensive.
ANDREW: I wasn't worried. I was… evaluating outcomes.
RUBY: (smiling slightly) Right. Because you don't get worried.
Andrew steps closer — too close — his voice dropping low.
ANDREW: Not usually.
Their faces hover inches apart.
Breath mingling.
That familiar, dangerous charge returns.
RUBY: So what now?
Andrew's gaze flicks to her lips, then back to her eyes — forced restraint.
ANDREW: Now you meet the rest of the family. And deal with Alexa
Ruby's expression darkens instantly.
RUBY: Oh. The ice princess.
Andrew almost laughs — dark, tired.
ANDREW: She prefers "future Lady Gaunt."
Ruby rolls her eyes.
RUBY: Over my dead body.
Andrew's breath hitches at the intensity in her voice.
Then he says something he didn't plan to say.
Didn't mean to say.
ANDREW: You shouldn't have to fight her alone.
Ruby freezes.
RUBY: …What?
Andrew looks away quickly, jaw tightening.
ANDREW: Forget it.
But Ruby grabs his sleeve, stopping him — mirroring how he grabbed her moments ago.
RUBY: No. Look at me.
Reluctantly, he does.
Their eyes lock.
An unspoken war.
And under it… something breaking open.
RUBY: Are you choosing me? Over her?
Andrew's breath stutters.
He doesn't answer.
He doesn't need to.
His silence is the answer.
Before either can speak, raised voices echo from downstairs — sharp, angry.
Alexa.
Calling Andrew's name.
Andrew flinches.
Ruby's expression shifts — slow, predatory, victorious.
RUBY: Showtime?
Andrew groans softly.
ANDREW: This is going to be hell.
Ruby smiles darkly.
RUBY: Good. I'm excellent at hell.
GAUNT MANOR – GRAND DINING HALL – EVENING
The hall is enormous, lit by emerald chandeliers and floating silver lanterns.
The air is thick with old magic — and thicker with tension.
A long obsidian table stretches the length of the room.
At the head sits LILIAH GAUNT, the formidable grandmother.
Her spine is straight as a wand; her gaze could slice stone.
Her glare is currently aimed at Alexa Malfoy, who sits stiffly, trying too hard to look elegant.
Alexa smiles sweetly — too sweetly — but her fingers twist nervously in her lap.
LILIAH: (deadly calm) Miss Malfoy. I trust you'll refrain from… causing a scene tonight.
It is not a suggestion.
Alexa swallows hard.
ALEXA: Of course, Lady Gaunt.
Liliah's eyes don't move from her.
LILIAH: See that you do.
Across the room, Kenzie carries a tray of enchanted dishes, floating them gracefully to the table with the ease of someone raised in magic and protocol. Her royal crown glints with every step.
KENZIE: Grandmother wants perfection tonight. Let's not give her a reason to hex anyone.
ANDREW carries a stack of goblets behind her, expression flat but jaw clenched.
He clearly hates this.
OMINIS GAUNT, Andrew and Kenzie's grandfather, moves beside Andrew, his wand lightly tapping the table to check if the setting is symmetrical. Though blind, his movements are precise and elegant.
OMINIS: (left eyebrow lifting) Andrew, your tension is loud enough to break every glass in the room.
Andrew grunts.
ANDREW: I'm fine.
Ominis chuckles softly.
OMINIS: You're a Gaunt. You're never fine.
Kenzie snorts in agreement.
---
RUBY ENTERS
The doors open.
Ruby steps inside.
She's dressed simply but sharply — dark green with silver threading along the sleeves.
Exactly Slytherin, yet nothing ostentatious.
Her presence turns heads anyway.
Even Liliah's eyes flick to her — appraising, curious.
Alexa stiffens instantly, clenching her jaw so hard the muscle twitches.
Andrew, despite himself, straightens the moment he sees Ruby — like his entire body recognizes her before his mind can stop it.
Kenzie notices.
Smirks knowingly.
---
THE DINNER BEGINS
Everyone takes their seats.
Liliah at the head.
Ominis beside her.
Kenzie directly across from Ruby.
Andrew next to Ruby.
Alexa… unfortunately… next to Andrew on the other side.
The tension is thick enough to bottle.
The first dishes arrive — floating silver platters of steaming food.
Kenzie conjures a graceful motion with her wand.
KENZIE: Let us begin.
Alexa leans toward Andrew, her voice a sugary poison.
ALEXA: Darling, don't forget — we have to finalize our engagement details after dinner.
Andrew stiffens.
Before he can speak, Ruby picks up her goblet and says calmly—
RUBY: That sounds exhausting.
Alexa's eyes snap to her.
ALEXA: Excuse me?
Ruby sips her drink, gaze unbothered.
RUBY: You know. All the planning. Scheduling. Pretending.
Andrew coughs to hide a laugh.
Liliah's eyes flick between them… amused.
Kenzie nearly drops her fork.
Ominis hides a smirk behind his goblet.
Alexa's face flushes red.
ALEXA: Pretending about what, exactly?
Ruby turns slowly, meeting Alexa's glare with perfect Slytherin poise.
RUBY: Pretending he wants you.
The table goes deadly silent.
Liliah sits back, observing like she's watching a duel she expected.
Andrew's breath catches. His hand tightens on his glass.
Alexa trembles with rage, voice shaking.
ALEXA: You insolent—
LILIAH: (enough to freeze the room) Alexa.
Alexa shuts her mouth immediately.
Liliah's voice is low and controlled.
LILIAH: If you raise your voice at a guest in my home again, you will be escorted out.
Alexa swallows, furious but silent.
Ruby's expression stays cool, collected — but her heart is pounding.
Andrew leans closer, voice barely above a whisper.
ANDREW: (soft, dark) You're going to start a war.
Ruby doesn't look at him.
RUBY: Too late.
The tension between Ruby and Alexa still crackles in the air like static.
But Liliah Gaunt's calm, lethal presence settles over the table like a dark velvet curtain.
She lifts her goblet, takes a measured sip, then looks directly at Andrew.
Her voice is quiet… but absolute.
LILIAH: Andrew, my grandson… I like the Ruby girl far better than this Alexa.
Alexa goes rigid.
Her fork freezes halfway to her mouth.
Andrew nearly chokes on his drink.
Ruby stares, eyes widening just slightly — unsure whether to feel honored or terrified.
Kenzie beams instantly, elbowing Andrew.
KENZIE: (timing impeccable) That's wonderful, Grandmother.
She flashes Ruby a subtle, supportive smile — the first true sign that Kenzie accepts her.
Across the table, Ominis Gaunt sits quietly, hands folded over his wand, face composed.
He doesn't argue.
He never argues with Liliah — and everyone knows it.
He simply inclines his head.
OMINIS: If Liliah sees strength in Ruby…
that is more reliable than any Malfoy pedigree.
Alexa's jaw drops.
ALEXA: Y–You can't be serious! I'm a pure-blood Malfoy! I was chosen for—
Liliah raises a hand.
Instant silence.
LILIAH: A Malfoy name carries weight, yes. But not integrity.
Alexa goes pale.
Liliah continues, gaze sharp as a blade.
LILIAH: In this family, the bloodline alone is not enough. A Gaunt must possess honesty, ruthlessness, and loyalty. Miss Weasley has demonstrated all three.
Ruby stiffens — shocked.
Andrew glances at her, something warm flickering in his eyes.
ANDREW: (low, amazed) You impressed her. No one impresses Grandmother.
Kenzie stifles a laugh.
KENZIE: Except me, naturally.
Liliah ignores her granddaughter's joke and turns fully to Ruby.
LILIAH: Ruby Weasley. Stand.
The entire table freezes.
Ruby stands slowly, unsure.
Liliah inspects her like a general evaluating a potential commander.
Finally—
LILIAH: You have the spine of a true Slytherin. And the honesty that keeps a Gaunt from self-destruction.
Ruby swallows hard, cheeks warming — but she hides it well.
RUBY: Thank you… Lady Gaunt.
Alexa slams her hands on the table.
ALEXA: This is absurd! She's a—
LILIAH: (interrupting, ice-cold) Sit. Down.
Alexa collapses into her chair.
Liliah's voice softens — but only toward Ruby.
LILIAH: My family has long needed someone who challenges us without deception. You are rough… imperfect…but honestly. I value that.
Ruby bows her head slightly, respectfully.
RUBY: I don't pretend to be anything else.
A faint smile touches Liliah's lips — almost proud.
Kenzie leans toward Andrew, whispering loudly enough for Ruby to hear:
KENZIE: Grandmother likes her. That's practically a coronation.
Andrew's lips twitch, unable to hide the small, stunned smile.
ANDREW:…Yeah. It is.
Ominis finally speaks, voice steady and calm.
OMINIS: Liliah has spoken. This matter… is not up for debate.
Alexa trembles with fury, her face red and blotchy.
Ruby sits back down, pulse racing.
Andrew subtly nudges her foot under the table — not playful, not coy.
Just a silent message:
You're winning.
Ruby doesn't look at him.
But she nudges back.
Just once.
==================================
GUEST CORRIDOR – NIGHT
The manor is silent. Heavy stone walls swallow every echo.
But down the hall, faint retching breaks the stillness.
Andrew's door creaks open. He emerges shirtless and half-asleep, eyes narrowing at the sound.
ANDREW: Ruby…?
He follows the noise to the bathroom.
INT. BATHROOM – CONTINUOUS
Ruby is on her knees over the toilet, gripping the rim, pale and shaky.
Her hair clings to her forehead, breath unsteady.
Andrew crouches beside her instantly.
ANDREW: Ruby— hey, what's wrong?
Ruby wipes her mouth, hands trembling.
She doesn't answer right away… and that scares him more than anything.
Finally, Ruby whispers:
RUBY: I think… I'm pregnant.
Andrew goes absolutely still.
His breath catches in his throat.
ANDREW: …Pregnant?
Ruby nods, tears threatening but not falling—Ruby Weasley does not cry easily.
RUBY: It must've happened during…
(her cheeks heat)…that night we swore didn't count.
Andrew shuts his eyes for a moment, absorbing it.
Then—
He laughs.
Quietly.
Disbelievingly.
Almost relieved.
ANDREW: Holy—
(he stops himself, running a hand through his hair) So it's true. I got you pregnant.
Ruby looks at him sharply, anxious.
RUBY: Andrew… we are still getting married, right?
There it is—the fear she never lets anyone hear.
He sits beside her on the cold floor, back against the wall, pulling her gently into his side.
His voice is low. Certain.
ANDREW: Ruby. Look at me.
She does.
ANDREW: I was already going to choose you. Before this.
Before tonight.
Before I even admitted it to myself.
Ruby's breath hitches.
He cups her cheek, thumb brushing her skin carefully—like she's something dangerous he wants anyway.
ANDREW: I'm not a monster. I wouldn't abandon you. Pregnancy or not, you were always the one who could stand with me. Against this Alexa. Against everything.
Ruby swallows, emotion flooding her eyes.
RUBY: So… this changes nothing?
Andrew shakes his head.
ANDREW: This only makes it certain. You're going to be my wife.
A long beat passes—heavy, terrifying, intimate.
Ruby leans her forehead to his, their breaths mixing.
RUBY: …Okay.
Andrew slides his hand over hers.
ANDREW: We'll tell Grandmother in the morning. She'll probably throw a celebration.
Or set something on fire.
Ruby lets out a tiny, shaky laugh.
RUBY: She'll be thrilled.
ANDREW: More thrilled than Alexa.
They both snort softly at that.
He stands and helps her up, steadying her when she wobbles.
ANDREW: Come on. Let's get you back to bed. You're not going through this alone.
Ruby lets him guide her down the hall—
for the first time looking less like the girl who controls him…
and more like the woman he's choosing.
==================================
INT. GAUNT MANOR – DINING HALL – MORNING
Sunlight filters weakly through tall, narrow windows.
The Gaunt family is already gathered—Liliah at the head, Ominis reading silently beside her, and Kenzie sipping tea, clearly bored.
Andrew enters first…
Ruby follows, carefully, one hand resting against her stomach without thinking.
Kenzie's eyes widen instantly.
She sees everything.
KENZIE: (quiet gasp) Oh. Oh Merlin.
Ruby freezes, startled.
Andrew glares at his sister.
ANDREW: Don't you dare—
Kenzie stands abruptly, slapping her hands on the table.
KENZIE: Grandmother. You are going to want to sit up straighter for this.
Liliah, who is already sitting like a queen carved from marble, lifts one eyebrow.
LILIAH: Kenzie Gaunt, you know better than to cause theatrics before breakfast.
Kenzie grins.
KENZIE: This isn't theatrics. This is history.
Liliah folds her hands.
LILIAH: Very well. Speak.
Kenzie gestures dramatically at Andrew and Ruby.
KENZIE: They're having a child.
A fork clatters to the table.
Ominis jerks upright, nearly dropping his wand.
Liliah goes still—utterly still—then turns her gaze to Ruby.
Ruby stands straight, not hiding.
Not afraid.
RUBY: It's true, Lady Gaunt.
A long, tense silence.
Then Liliah rises slowly, power radiating from her like heat.
LILIAH: Come here.
Ruby steps forward.
Liliah places a hand on Ruby's shoulder—firm, assessing, ancient magic humming under her fingertips.
After a long moment, she exhales.
Softly.
LILIAH: A Gaunt heir.
Kenzie nearly squeals.
Ominis smiles, subtle and warm.
Andrew lets out a breath of pure relief.
But Liliah isn't finished.
She lifts her chin, voice ringing like a decree.
LILIAH: This child will secure the Gaunt line. And therefore—
( Her eyes cut toward Andrew. ) —the arranged engagement with the Malfoy girl is void.
The doors slam open.
ALEXA MALFOY storms in, eyes wild, hair tangled like she hadn't slept.
ALEXA: YOU CAN'T DO THAT!
Liliah slowly turns her head toward her, expression colder than winter ice.
LILIAH: Miss Malfoy. You were not invited to speak.
Alexa stomps forward, pointing at Ruby with a shaking hand.
ALEXA:
She trapped him! She probably planned this!
You can't just replace me because—because—
LILIAH: (barely raising her voice) Silence.
The word is infused with magic.
Alexa's lips snap shut involuntarily.
She claws at her own throat, shocked.
Liliah steps toward her—slow, regal, terrifying.
LILIAH: You forget yourself. My decisions do not bend to Malfoy tantrums.
She circles Alexa like a predator.
LILIAH: Your family wanted status. We wanted a temporary alliance. But Andrew's child & Ruby's child—is worth more than your bloodline could ever offer.
Alexa trembles.
Liliah stops inches from her face.
LILIAH: Leave this manor before you embarrass yourself further.
With a flick of Liliah's wrist, the doors blast open again.
Alexa flees, almost tripping over her own robes.
Kenzie fans herself dramatically.
KENZIE: Well. That was satisfying.
Ominis chuckles under his breath.
Andrew turns to Ruby, unable to hide the way his expression softens.
ANDREW: It's official now.
Ruby releases a breath she didn't know she was holding.
RUBY: We're really doing this.
Andrew intertwines his fingers with hers—boldly, openly.
ANDREW: Yeah. We are.
Liliah speaks again, commanding the room.
LILIAH: Prepare the manor. Tonight, we celebrate the future Lady Gaunt.
Ruby's eyes widen.
Andrew smirks.
Kenzie throws her arms up in triumph.
And somewhere outside the manor walls…
Alexa Malfoy screams into the air leaving the gaunt manor
==================================
The manor has transformed on the next day
Emerald and silver banners hang from enchanted rafters.
Floating candles burn with green fire.
Guests wearing ancient pure-blood robes mingle, whispering about the news.
At the center of it all stands Ruby, dressed in a deep green gown Kenzie insisted she wear.
Her hair is braided with silver thread, a subtle crown-like style.
She looks powerful.
But nervous.
Kenzie straightens Ruby's shoulders from behind.
KENZIE: Relax. Everyone here already knows you're stronger than half their sons.
Ruby snorts softly.
RUBY: I'm not used to this. Being shown off.
Kenzie leans close, grinning.
KENZIE: Tonight, you're the future Lady Gaunt. Enjoy it.
---
ANDREW ENTERS
Andrew descends the staircase in dark robes trimmed with silver.
He looks every bit the heir—cold, composed, dangerous.
His eyes find Ruby immediately.
His steps quicken.
Kenzie backs away with a smug smirk.
KENZIE: (under her breath)
There he goes…
Andrew stops in front of Ruby, gaze sweeping over her like he's confirming she's real.
ANDREW: You look… (he tries again) Ruby, you look incredible.
Ruby's cheeks warm, but she forces a smirk.
RUBY: You clean up pretty well yourself.
Andrew offers his arm.
ANDREW: You ready?
Ruby hesitates.
RUBY: For what?
Andrew leans closer, voice low, breath warm against her ear.
ANDREW: For the ritual.
Ruby's eyes widen.
RUBY: Ritual?
Kenzie reappears like she's been waiting.
KENZIE: Oh right—did Andrew forget to tell you? There's an old Gaunt tradition for expecting mothers.
Ruby glares.
RUBY: Andrew.
Andrew gives a guilty shrug.
ANDREW: I didn't want you overthinking it.
RUBY: So what is it?
Liliah approaches, staff tapping lightly on the floor.
Everyone bows or steps aside.
She stops before Ruby, eyes shining with ancient authority.
LILIAH: It is called The Serpent's Blessing.
A protective enchantment for the unborn Gaunt heir…and a test for the mother.
Ruby swallows hard.
RUBY: A test?
Liliah nods once.
LILIAH: To ensure you have the strength to carry a child of this bloodline. It will not harm you. But it will reveal your truth.
Ruby steps closer.
RUBY: I'm not afraid.
Andrew's eyes flicker with a mix of pride and worry.
ANDREW: You don't have to prove anything.
Ruby shakes her head.
RUBY: Yes. I do.
He grips her hand tightly.
For once, he doesn't hide how much she matters to him.
---
THE RITUAL BEGINS
Liliah raises her staff.
The room quiets instantly.
LILIAH: Bring her forward.
Ruby steps into a glowing circle of green fire.
Andrew tries to follow—but Liliah blocks him with the staff.
LILIAH: Only the mother enters.
Andrew bristles, but Ominis places a hand on his shoulder.
OMINIS: She'll be safe. Trust her.
Andrew forces himself to stay back.
Ruby stands alone inside the circle.
Liliah's voice echoes:
LILIAH: Serpens aeternum… reveal her heart.
Emerald flames rise around Ruby—huge, towering, alive.
They spiral upward, forming the ghostly image of a giant serpent.
Its eyes glow bright silver.
The serpent lowers its head to Ruby, inspecting her.
Andrew grips the railing so hard his knuckles turn white.
Kenzie bites her lip, worried.
The serpent's mouth opens—
Ruby doesn't flinch.
Its fang-light touches Ruby's chest.
A pulse of soft silver light bursts outward.
The serpent recoils—then bows its head.
The flames die.
Ruby stands unharmed.
Liliah smiles for the first time that night.
LILIAH: She has the heart of a lady Gaunt.
Gasps and murmurs ripple through the room.
Andrew rushes to Ruby the second the circle breaks.
He cups her face, checking her over.
ANDREW: Are you hurt? Ruby—say something.
Ruby smiles—small, tired, proud.
RUBY: I told you. I'm not afraid.
Andrew pulls her against him in a fierce embrace—carefully, protectively, like he's afraid to let go.
Kenzie claps her hands.
KENZIE: Well! That settles it. She's not just a future Lady Gaunt—she's a true one.
Liliah raises her goblet high.
LILIAH: Tonight, we celebrate Ruby Weasley—mother of the future Gaunt heir.
The hall erupts in applause.
Ruby leans into Andrew, breath trembling with everything she's just endured.
Andrew whispers into her hair:
ANDREW: You're mine now. And I'm yours. No one—not Alexa, not this family—gets between us again.
Ruby closes her eyes.
RUBY: Good. I don't share.
Andrew smirks.
ANDREW: Neither do I.
==================================