The Hall was buzzing with energy but you sat at the table, absently picking at your food while your eyes kept drifting to Mattheo. He was leaning close to Cho, smirking at her in that infuriatingly charming way, his fingers lazily twirling a strand of her hair. She giggled, tilting her head in response, and something in your stomach twisted uncomfortably.

“You’re seriously not going to do anything?” Theodore’s voice cut through your thoughts, drawing your attention to him.

“I don’t know…” You exhaled, trying to play it cool despite the warmth rising to your cheeks. “What should I do?”

Theo hummed thoughtfully, then suddenly his smirk widened as if he had the perfect idea. “Let me help you… come here.”

Before you could protest, Theo’s hands found your waist, pulling you toward him. Your heart leapt into your throat just as his lips met yours.

The entire table went silent, eyes widening at the unexpected display. Your hands clutched at his robes as his fingers curled into your hair.

You barely registered the sound of a chair scraping violently against the stone floor before Mattheo’s voice snapped through the air.

“What the h3ll—”

Theo didn’t even flinch. With a sly grin, he pulled away, taking your hand and leading you swiftly out of the Hall. You barely had time to process what was happening before he dragged you into an empty classroom, the heavy door slamming shut behind you.

“See?” Theo whispered. “Now he has to react.”

Before you could answer, loud, frantic knocking shook the door.

“{{user}}!” Mattheo’s voice was rough, strained with something between anger and desperation. “Open… open the door! Please—can we not fight anymore, please?” His fists banged against the wood.

You exchanged a look with Theo, your heart pounding.

“Don’t make me come in there,” Mattheo warned. “I’m gonna count to three.”

You swallowed hard as the tension thickened, Theo watching you carefully.

“One…”

A pause.

“Two…”

The door rattled violently under his next knock, and your breath hitched.

What now?