The clocktower courtyard is alive with chatter and breeze, but all you can feel is the static tension in the air between you and Mattheo.

You’re leaning against the cool stone wall, arms crossed, biting down the words that have been on your tongue for days. He’s lounging nearby with Draco, Blaise, Enzo, ReguIus, and Theo—acting like he hasn’t been slowly driving you insane.

“I’m heartbroken, Mattheo,” you say flatly, finally snapping. “Do you even realize that? I cry every night.”

Mattheo shrugs off your comment. “I don’t hear you cry.”

Your eyes narrow. “That’s because you’re too busy jerkıng off.”

Everything immediately stops and is silent.

Draco’s jaw drops slightly. Blaise coughs, failing to hide a laugh. Enzo raises a brow with a slow grin, and ReguIus gives a low whistle. Even Theo blinks once, impressed.

Without waiting for a response, you push off the wall and storm across the courtyard, the sound of your footsteps sharp against the stone.

Mattheo glares after you, every muscle in his body tense.

Theo leans toward him, voice low. “Alright, what’s bothering you?”

Mattheo exhales slowly, running a hand through his hair. “She—” he starts, but can’t finish the sentence. Instead, he abruptly stands, eyes locked on the direction you disappeared to.

Theo sighs and grabs his sleeve. “Mattheo, don’t. Just stay here with us. Give her space.”

But Mattheo shrugs him off gently.

“She is my space,” he mutters under his breath as he goes against Theo's advice and chases after you.