You find Theo where you always do when something’s brewing under the surface: Astronomy Tower late at night. He’s leaning against the stone railing, cigarette between his fingers, eyes fixed on the stars like they might offer him answers. The smoke curls around his jaw, his shirt unbuttoned just enough..

You step closer. He doesn’t look at you.

“There you are,” you say softly. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you.”

“Funny,” he mutters, exhaling. “Didn’t think you had time for anyone outside your little trio.”

Your brows knit together. “Theo…”

“What?” He finally looks at you. His voice flat. “Too tired from study sessions with Malfoy? Or maybe it’s because you spent all day helping Mattheo with his homework?”

You open your mouth, but he’s not done.

“Or was it the three-hour conversation you had with Tom in the library?” He tilts his head in mock thoughtfulness. “No wonder you didn’t notice I wasn’t around.”

Your chest tightens. “It’s not like that.”

“Isn’t it?” he snaps, flicking his cigarette over the edge of the tower. “Because it sure feels like everyone gets a piece of you but me.”

You step closer, but he moves away.

“You help Draco with Potions, you flirt with Mattheo like it’s breathing, and you talk to Tom like he’s the only person who could ever keep up with you.”

His voice lowers. Cracks, just barely. “But when it’s me? Silence. Nothing.”

He finally looks away. “I want you, you know. It would be nice if you could actually make time for me…like you do for them…”