The steady clatter of the train fills the quiet moments between sharp words. You sit beside Mattheo in the compartment, legs tucked under you, trying to ease the tension that’s been brewing since the news broke.

"So, your brother is really going to be our teacher?" Draco is the first to shatter the uneasy silence, his tone more amused than anything.

Mattheo groans, dragging a hand through his dark curls. "Sadly, yes," he grumbles, his voice coated in disdain.

You nudge him playfully, a soft laugh slipping from your lips. "I think you’re being way too dramatic, Matt. Tom is the best person for the position. We all know that."

His gaze flicks to you, sharp and stormy. "If you’re such a fan of my brother, why don’t you date him?" he snaps.

The air chills. You blink, taken aback, your playful smile fading. "Mattheo," you murmur, hurt flashing in your eyes.

Before you can say more, ReguIus straightens from where he’s lounging across from you, his jaw tight. "Don’t talk to her like that," he warns.

Mattheo’s eyes narrow into a glare. "Or what, Black?"

"Trying to be scary, little brother?" Tom’s voice slides into the compartment like a shadow. He leans lazily against the trolley door, arms crossed, an infuriatingly calm smirk curling at his lips.

Mattheo’s attention snaps to him. "Great," he mutters bitterly. "Look who’s here."

Tom’s gaze flicks to you, lingering just long enough to stir something dangerous beneath the surface.

"You could at least pretend to be happy to see me, brother," Tom remarks smoothly, pushing off the door and stepping further inside.