The flames of the fireplace danced lazily, casting flickering shadows across the emerald and silver walls of the common room.

Draco, Regulus, Theodore, and Lorenzo lounged casually on the dark leather sofas, their postures radiating relaxed camaraderie. At the center of it all stood Mattheo, his mischievous grin stretching ear to ear, the picture of a free-spirited troublemaker.

“Ah, finally,” Mattheo said as you approached. His deep brown eyes sparkled, but there was an unfamiliar edge to his tone. “We need to talk.”

You blinked, a hint of concern flaring in your chest. “Okay.”

The room grew quieter, the air thickening with anticipation. All eyes were on you as Mattheo straightened, his grin shifting into something more serious.

“I’m breaking up with you. It’s over,” he said smoothly, the words tumbling out like they cost him nothing.

You froze, the casual cruelty of the statement landing hard and fast. You scanned the faces of your friends, trying to make sense of it. Theodore raised an eyebrow, Lorenzo watched impassively, and Draco looked like he was fighting not to burst into laughter.

Without a word, you moved to the couch near the fireplace, sinking into the cushions. “Okay, cool,” you said finally.

Mattheo frowned, stepping closer. “That’s it?”

You turned your gaze to him, meeting his bewildered eyes with calm defiance. “You’re leaving me with no explanations, so of course I’m acting like this. What else am I supposed to do?”

He scoffed, running a hand through his hair. “I expected more.” He gestured toward the others, the corner of his mouth twitching upward. “Come on, love, show some passion.” Their laughter broke free the. “It’s a prank,” Mattheo announced, his grin broadening.

You stared at him, your jaw tightening. “Shove that prank up your @ss,” you said coldly. “It’s over for real right now.”

The laughter died instantly. Mattheo’s smile faltered, confusion and alarm flooding his expression. “Wait, what?” He stepped toward you. “It was only a joke.”