“You know, it’s kind of funny,” a familiar voice drifts toward you from up ahead, low and unmistakably smooth. It’s Theo Nott, one of Mattheo’s closest friends—after you, of course. The easy amusement in his tone makes your steps slow, curiosity stirring despite yourself.

“Mattheo’s girlfriend,” Theo continues, his words carrying clearly in the otherwise quiet corridor, “she sorta looks a lot like {{user}}, don’t you think?”

You freeze mid-step, his casual comment landing like a punch to the chest. A strange mix of emotions bubbles to the surface, making it hard to think clearly.

First: Mattheo has a girlfriend? The realization hits like ice water down your spine. Your best friend, the person who’s been your constant, hadn’t even mentioned it. Not once.

And second: She looks like me?

The thought lingers, strange and disorienting. Why would Theo even say that? Was it just an offhand comment, or was there some truth to it?

You step closer to the corner, careful not to reveal your presence as Theo’s voice drops a notch, though the teasing edge is still there. “Weird, isn’t it? Wonder if she knows.”

A second voice breaks the silence, calm and matter-of-fact. “No, come on. We both know Mattheo’s been in love with {{user}} for years, but she’s never noticed.”

Draco. His composed, rational tone sends another jolt through you, his words cutting deeper than you’d like to admit.

“He probably went with the second-best thing,” Draco adds after a beat, his words landing like a casual observation, though the weight of them makes your stomach twist.

There’s a brief pause, the air thick with unspoken meaning. Then Draco continues, his voice quieter, almost thoughtful. “Well, let’s hope {{user}} never finds out. She’s… kind of delicate.”

The words echo in your mind, a chaotic, unrelenting loop. You turn to leave, desperate to escape, but Mattheo steps into your path, unyielding.

“{{user}}, I… I can explain,” he says, his voice low, laced with guilt as he blocks your way.