Ezekiel's life remained a whirlwind of responsibilities—balancing his marriage, Quidditch, politics, and now, the looming danger of Sirius Black's escape.
But despite everything, he made sure to prioritize time with Daphne before the inevitable storm ahead.
---
Daphne woke to the sensation of soft kisses trailing down her neck. She sighed, stretching as she felt Ezekiel's warm hands slide along her bare skin.
"You're awake early," she murmured, her voice still drowsy.
Ezekiel smirked. "I have an extremely beautiful wife. Can't help myself."
Daphne turned, pulling him down for a deep kiss, fingers tangling in his hair.
What started as teasing soon escalated, their bodies pressing together under the silk sheets.
It was slow, sensual, and intimate—a rare moment of peace before duty called again.
---
After breakfast, an owl arrived from France, announcing Fleur's visit.
By afternoon, Fleur stepped through the fireplace of Ravenclaw Manor, her Veela charm as striking as ever.
"Bonjour, Ezekiel. Daphne," she greeted, her sapphire eyes gleaming.
Daphne, despite their previous struggles, had grown used to Fleur's presence. "Welcome back, Fleur. Hopefully, you won't be stealing my husband today."
Fleur laughed, kissing Daphne's cheek before doing the same to Ezekiel. "Non, non. Only borrowing him for a little conversation."
As they settled into the lounge, Fleur's expression turned serious. "Have you heard about Sirius Black?"
Ezekiel leaned back, fingers steepled. "Yes. He's escaped Azkaban."
Daphne frowned. "And the Ministry is sending Dementors to Hogwarts. That's dangerous for the students."
Ezekiel exhaled sharply. "That's why I'll be speaking against it in the Wizengamot."
Fleur nodded. "Be careful, mon amour. The Ministry does not like dissent."
Daphne smirked. "Ezekiel never cared about what they liked."
Ezekiel chuckled. "That's why I have both of you—to keep me sane while I fight these old fools."
---
The grand chamber of the Wizengamot buzzed with discussion as the Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge, stood at the podium.
"Given the severity of Sirius Black's escape, we have stationed Dementors around Hogwarts for the protection of the students."
Murmurs of approval filled the room—until Ezekiel stood.
"Minister, this is a reckless decision," he stated coldly. "Dementors do not differentiate between criminals and innocents. Their very presence will harm the students more than protect them."
Some Lords nodded in agreement, while others frowned. Lucius Malfoy's gaze lingered on him, unreadable.
Fudge waved a hand dismissively. "The Dementors are necessary. We cannot risk Black infiltrating Hogwarts."
Ezekiel narrowed his eyes. "And what if they attack a student? Who will be responsible then?"
Fudge faltered but kept his stance. "The Ministry ensures—"
"Empty words," Ezekiel interrupted. "Mark my words, Minister—if a student suffers because of your decision, you will answer for it."
Silence filled the room. Even the most stubborn Lords couldn't deny the truth in his words.
Fudge gulped, before forcing a smile. "The matter is settled. We will take… extra precautions."
Ezekiel knew that meant nothing. But at least he had made his stance clear.
---
Returning home, Ezekiel found Daphne and Fleur waiting for him in the study.
"How did it go?" Daphne asked, handing him a glass of wine.
Ezekiel sighed, taking a sip. "The usual corruption. But they know I won't let this slide."
Fleur smirked. "You are becoming quite the troublemaker."
Daphne rolled her eyes. "He always was."
Ezekiel pulled both women closer, his fingers brushing against Daphne's waist. "Good thing I have my own troublemakers to keep me company."
Daphne scoffed but leaned into him. Fleur chuckled, shaking her head.
Despite the dangers ahead, Ezekiel knew he was not alone.
And that made all the difference.
---