The unexpected encounter at the pâtisserie had been just the beginning. Over the next few days, Ezekiel found himself running into Fleur more often than he had anticipated.
It wasn't deliberate—at least, not on his part.
Gabrielle and Celes had formed a quick and unshakable bond, and as a result, their families ended up crossing paths more frequently. Wherever Celes wanted to go, Gabrielle wanted to follow, and vice versa.
And since Fleur often accompanied Gabrielle…
That meant Ezekiel and Fleur were spending more time together.
---
The Malverne estate in France had a vast enchanted lake surrounded by gardens, perfect for early morning walks.
Ezekiel had just stepped outside for some fresh air when he noticed Fleur sitting by the water's edge.
She wasn't alone—Gabrielle was playing with Celes nearby, giggling as they tossed pebbles into the shimmering lake.
Fleur, however, was simply watching them, looking almost… pensive.
Ezekiel approached quietly, his footsteps crunching against the pebbled path. "You seem deep in thought."
Fleur glanced up, momentarily surprised, before offering a small smile. "Just enjoying the quiet."
Ezekiel sat beside her, his gaze drifting toward the lake. "Rare moment of peace with those two around."
Fleur chuckled softly. "Oui. Gabrielle has far too much energy."
"So does Celes."
They watched as their sisters squealed in laughter, completely lost in their own world.
After a moment, Fleur spoke again, her voice thoughtful. "You have a strong bond with your sister."
Ezekiel nodded. "Celes means everything to me. Alys too."
Fleur tilted her head slightly. "You speak as if they are your whole world."
He smirked. "They are."
Fleur studied him for a moment before looking away. "It must be nice… having a brother like that."
Ezekiel raised an eyebrow. "You don't seem unhappy with your family."
"I'm not," she admitted. "But sometimes… it's different. Being part-Veela, people don't always see me for who I really am. They see what they want to see."
Ezekiel remained silent, sensing there was more.
Fleur hesitated, then sighed. "I don't always know if people like me for me… or for my Veela heritage."
Ezekiel considered her words. It made sense—Veela had an undeniable allure, and Fleur, even at this age, was beautiful. But that beauty came with its own burdens.
"It must be frustrating," he said at last.
Fleur glanced at him, as if surprised he didn't try to contradict her.
She exhaled. "It is."
Ezekiel leaned back slightly, resting his arms behind him. "Well, for what it's worth, I don't feel any overwhelming urge to worship the ground you walk on."
Fleur blinked. Then—
She laughed.
It was soft but genuine, and Ezekiel realized it was the first time he had seen her so relaxed.
"You truly are different," she mused, shaking her head.
He smirked. "I'll take that as a compliment."
Fleur glanced back at him, something unreadable in her gaze. "It was."
---
Over the next few days, their conversations became more frequent, more natural.
They talked about magic—Fleur was naturally talented, but Ezekiel had a depth of knowledge that intrigued her.
They shared stories about their families—Fleur spoke of her mother's strict expectations, and Ezekiel of his responsibilities as an heir.
They debated Quidditch—Fleur supported the French National Team, while Ezekiel, loyal to his homeland, argued for England.
Their friendship wasn't forced—it simply happened.
And Fleur found herself drawn to it.
There was something… different about Ezekiel.
He didn't treat her like an untouchable Veela princess.
He didn't try to impress her or stumble over his words.
He spoke to her like she was just—Fleur.
And for once, that was enough.
---
All vacations had to end, and before they knew it, the Malvernes were preparing to return home.
On their last evening in France, Ezekiel found Fleur standing by the balcony of the estate, watching the sun set over the lake.
He leaned against the railing beside her. "You're not going to say goodbye?"
Fleur smirked. "I was waiting to see if you would come find me first."
He chuckled. "So you admit you wanted to say goodbye."
She exhaled softly. "Perhaps."
Silence settled between them, but it wasn't uncomfortable.
After a moment, Fleur turned to him. "Will I see you again?"
Ezekiel nodded. "I'll be back for the summer. And I have a feeling our paths will cross again before that."
Fleur tilted her head. "Is that a promise?"
He smirked. "A prediction."
She chuckled. "Very well, seer. Let's see if you're right."
Then, surprising even herself, Fleur stepped closer and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek.
Ezekiel blinked.
Fleur smiled—just slightly. "Until next time."
And before he could respond, she was gone.
Ezekiel exhaled, shaking his head as he watched the sun dip below the horizon.
Fleur Delacour was going to be an interesting presence in his life.
And he didn't mind that at all.
---