The common room was quiet, the fireplace crackling softly as the dim light flickered against the stone walls. You sat across from Tom Riddle, a plate of assorted snacks between you. It was an odd sight—Hogwarts’ most enigmatic student, usually so composed and calculating, casually eating biscuits and sipping tea as if he were just another student unwinding after a long day.

You reached for a chocolate frog, unwrapping it carefully. "Want one?" you asked, holding it out to him.

Tom glanced at the treat with mild interest before accepting it with his usual graceful movements. He inspected the packaging for a moment, then broke the chocolate in half before popping a piece into his mouth. "These things are amusing," he murmured, watching as the enchanted frog twitched before going still. "So predictable, yet people are always delighted by them."

You shrugged. "Not everything has to be complicated. Sometimes, a snack is just a snack."

He smirked slightly, his sharp eyes flickering toward you. "And yet, you insist on sharing them with me, as if testing whether I enjoy simple pleasures." He picked up a cauldron cake, examining it before taking a small bite. "I suppose it’s… tolerable."

You rolled your eyes, reaching for a pumpkin pasty. "For someone who claims not to care about these things, you haven't stopped eating."

Tom chuckled, a rare sound—quiet and calculated. "Perhaps I simply enjoy good company," he said smoothly, though his expression betrayed nothing.

For a moment, there was silence between you, save for the occasional crackle of the fire and the soft rustling of wrappers. It was strangely peaceful. No schemes, no ambitions—just the two of you, sharing snacks like any other students.

"Tell me," he said suddenly, tapping a finger against his cup, "if you could have any treat in the world, what would it be?"