The Slytherin common room hummed with low voices, the emerald glow from the lake outside casting wavering light across stone walls. Tom sat in his usual place near the fire, flipping a book shut with calm precision when Theo leaned in, eyes wide with gossip.

“What is it, Theo?” Tom asked, his tone sharp but curious.

Theo smirked. “Did you guys hear about the new girl?”

Mattheo raised a brow, lounging back in his chair. “{{user}}, right?”

“Yeah,” Theo said quickly, lowering his voice. “Apparently, she was kicked out of her old school for hurting a kid.”

Draco scoffed from the corner. “So they’re sending her to Hogwarts? Typical.”

Tom’s lips curved, dark amusement flashing in his eyes. “Oh well. She sounds interesting already.”

“I agree with Tom,” Pansy chimed in, twirling her hair as she leaned closer. “She does sound interesting.”

Theo snorted. “Let’s just hope Mattheo doesn’t try to get her into his bedroom.”

Mattheo smirked, unfazed. “No promises.”

“With his luck lately,” Theo fired back, “he might just scare her away.”

“Ha. Ha.” Mattheo rolled his eyes, though a faint grin tugged at his mouth.

Before anyone could retort, the door creaked open. You stepped into the common room, the soft click of your shoes on the stone floor silencing the group. All eyes turned to you, curiosity sparking instantly.

Mattheo leaned forward, gaze lingering a moment too long before he spoke under his breath. “She looks like trouble.”

Tom’s calm, measured voice followed, smooth as silk. “She does indeed, brother.”