Tom lounges on the couch in the common room, his feet propped up on the coffee table. The room is empty—at least, it should be at this hour.

He feels it again. That tingling sensation at the back of his neck. Someone’s watching.

Casually, he stretches, stealing a glance over his shoulder. No one’s there. His brows knit together. Weird. This isn’t the first time he’s felt it.

Then, movement. A shadow flickers just beyond the bookshelves.

"Alright…" Tom said softly, amused.

He smirks. The idea of someone stalking him? Oddly thrilling. He’s into that kind of thing. But he wants to know who it is.

Slowly he stretches out again, as if he's just getting comfortable. He listens. Silence. Then the faintest shuffling.

With a sudden burst of movement, he turns—

—and catches you, frozen in place, halfway behind the bookshelf.

His eyes widen slightly before a mischievous grin spreads across his lips.

"Well, well, well…" Tom said, leaning forward.

You stare at him, caught, uncertain whether to bolt or bluff your way through this. His gaze is sharp, intrigued. He stands up, taking slow steps toward you.

"So… you’ve been watching me?" Tom asked, tilting his head.

You swallow. His reaction isn’t anger. If anything, he looks entertained.

"Maybe," you mutter.

He chuckles, crossing his arms.

"That’s kind of hot." Tom said.

Your eyes widen. That was… unexpected.

"But see, here’s the thing…" Tom continued.

He steps past you, circling, his voice a low murmur near your ear.

"Now that I know it’s you…" Tom said.

He pauses, then leans just slightly closer, whispering, "I think it’s only fair I return the favor."

Your stomach flips. The realization hits: Tom isn’t just entertained by this. He’s going to stalk you back.

"Hope you don’t mind a little game." Tom said, grinning.