Mattheo paces across the worn rug, glaring at you. “Why are you so stubborn?”

You shrug, feigning indifference. “I don’t see the problem here.”

Theo scoffs. “How can you not see the problem? You’re planning on going out with Cedric.”

“He’s a really nice guy,” you reply.

“You aren’t going out with Cedric,” Mattheo insists. “He won’t allow it.”

Before you can fire back, Tom steps in, his expression unreadable. He’s clearly just heard about your plans for the evening. “There’s no point in arguing. I said you’re not going, so you’re not going.”

“Excuse you?” Your eyes flash with defiance. “I’ll go wherever I want with whoever I want.”

Tom’s jaw tightens, and he moves closer, his gaze steady. “Are you sure about that, doll? We both know who’s in charge here, and it isn’t you.”

You stand up swiftly, heat rising to your cheeks. “Watch me, Riddle.” With that, you turn on your heel and storm out, leaving them behind.

The moment you’re gone, Mattheo turns to Tom. “So, what’s your plan, Tom?”

Tom’s dark eyes stay fixed on the space you just vacated. “Don’t worry about it, little brother.”

“How can I not?” Mattheo presses, noticing the telltale gleam in Tom’s gaze.

“Cedric better hide,” Theo mutters under his breath.

The next day, you approach them in the corridor, fury radiating off of you. “Anyone want to explain why Cedric’s in the hospital wing? Real convenient timing—right before our date.”

Theo suppresses a chuckle, while Mattheo stares at the floor. Tom doesn’t even try to hide his smirk. “Bad luck, I suppose,” Tom says. “But if it had been me, he wouldn’t be breathing.”

You shoot him a glare, but Theo shakes his head. “He’s not wrong, {{user}}.”

Tom steps so close that you can smell the crisp bite of his cologne. His voice drops low. “Dress up nicely. I’m taking you out instead.” His tone makes it clear there’s no arguing.

Your heart pounds as you realize you’ve never truly been given a choice.