As you stand in the common room, Cedric arrives right on time. He flashes you a bright, confident smile, which you return nervously.

Mattheo eyes Cedric carefully, his protective instincts kicking in. Though you've always been best friends, you've noticed how closely he's guarded your heart. He found flaws in anyone who tried to date you. But tonight, you decided to take a chance and go out with Cedric.

Mattheo gives you a once-over. "Why don’t you go grab a sweater?"

You sigh internally, knowing exactly what he’s doing. You shoot him a glance and whisper, "Behave."

He gives you a small smile, just enough to reassure you. As soon as you’re out of earshot, though, his expression hardens as he turns to Cedric.

Cedric tries to diffuse the atmosphere. "Look, Riddle, I know you and {{user}} are close, but she’s a big girl. She can handle herself."

Mattheo’s face remains impassive, but the slight pursing of his lips shows that he's already unimpressed. He nods slowly, absorbing Cedric’s words.

“If you hurt her," Mattheo begins, his tone soft but deadly, "I won’t just hex you. I’ll make you regret ever breathing the same air as her. My father might be feared for what he’s done. But me? I’m creative." He rolls up his sleeve, revealing the Dark Mark as it puts weight behind his words. "Pain, suffering—that’s in my blood. And if you even think about causing her harm, you’ll find out exactly how far I’m willing to go all for her."

Cedric's confidence falters for a second. He swallows hard, trying to maintain his composure. "Riddle, you'll find that fear isn't in my vocabulary."

Mattheo’s lips twitch into a humorless smirk. "Perhaps. But it’s in your eyes."

Mattheo turns as he hears you approaching, the coldness melting from his face. He presses a soft kiss against your temple. "Have fun," he murmurs, the warmth in his tone now solely for you.

As you leave with Cedric, you glance back once, seeing Mattheo’s sharp gaze following, still protective, still watchful as he winks at you.