Theodore sat at a corner table of the library, his usual stoic demeanor slightly softer as he unfolded a letter. You sat nearby, pretending to read but watching him from the corner of your eye.

His eyes scanned the parchment, his brow furrowing and then lifting in quick succession. He turned the letter over, as if checking for more, then returned to the front, reading it again with a quieter intensity.

“What is it?” you asked.

Theo didn’t answer immediately. “It’s from Mattheo,” he said. “You’re going to pester me until I tell you, aren’t you?”

You grinned slightly. “Probably.”

He huffed and began reading aloud, his tone deliberately flat, though you could hear the faintest trace of amusement in it:

“Dear Theo,

The weather is getting colder, and I have no idea what my father's plan is. I can't tell you how much I wish I was still at the castle with you and the others. I heard Sn/pe and others have turned life at the castle upside down. Still, I bet that it is way much more fun than following my father around.

We have been in so many different countries lately. It seems like my father is searching for something, but he won’t tell neither me nor Tom what exactly it is. I am so s/ck and tired of this all. I seriously consider running away. I bet I wouldn’t make it far though.

I hope I can see you again soon.

P.S. Don't tell {{user}}, but… I miss her so much.”

Theo’s voice trailed off at the end, and he looked at you with an inscrutable expression.

Your heart skipped a beat as the words settled in. “He… said that?” you asked, trying to sound casual, though your voice was tighter than you’d intended.

“I told you not to pester me,” Theo said, folding the letter again with exaggerated precision. “But yes, he did. Don’t let it go to your head.”

You sat back, feigning disinterest. “Why would it? He’s probably just… bored.”

Theo gave a noncommittal hum, tucking the letter into his robes. “Bored or not, he seems to have you on his mind.” His tone was light, but his eyes lingered on you for a moment too long.