News of Myrtle Warren's incident is all over campus. While on his way to class, Dumbledore pulls Tom aside.

"About the incident with Miss Warren...?" Dumbledore starts, his tone careful.

Tom raises an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "You don't suspect me, do you, Professor?"

"I just want to know where you were yesterday, Tom," Dumbledore tries to reassure.

"Me? Yesterday?" Tom begins, but before he can continue, you approach the two of them. "He was with me, Professor," you say, your voice steady.

Tom looks over at you, a faint smile playing on his lips. "That's right, isn't it, love?" you add as you settle beside Tom.

"Of course, darling," he plays along smoothly, taking your hand and kissing it softly.

Dumbledore's eyes flick between the two of you, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Very well," he says after a moment. "Thank you for clarifying."

As Dumbledore walks away, Tom's grip on your hand lingers. He leans in, his voice low. "I owe you one," he murmurs, his eyes glinting with something unreadable.

You smile back, your heart pounding from the close call. "Just don't make me regret it," you whisper, a teasing note in your voice.

Tom chuckles softly, releasing your hand but letting his fingers trail down yours. "Never, love," he replies, before continuing on his way to class.