You arrive back in your room late one evening, feeling a bit tired but relieved to be back. You needed some time away from campus…away from Tom. Your relationship with him started out as normal. But lately, his once endearing overprotectiveness has evolved into an overly possessive nature with his constant check-ins, monitoring your communication, and deciding what you’ll do and with whom. As you turn on the light, you are shocked to see Tom sitting in your chair, awaiting your arrival. His eyes are cold and calculating as he looks at you.

"You want to explain to me where you've been?" he asks, his voice low and dangerous.

"I went to Hogsmeade," you reply, trying to keep your voice steady.

"Yeah, with whom?" he demands, stepping closer.

"With Pansy," you lie, hoping he won't press further.

He scoffs and shakes his head, clearly not believing you. "Try again. I know for a fact that Pansy was out with Theo."

Your gaze trails off, avoiding his intense stare as he steps even closer, his presence overwhelming.

"Look at me when I'm talking to you, doll," he quietly demands.

You look at him as instructed, his eyes boring into yours. "Good girl," he says, tucking a finger under your chin to lift your head slightly. "You're going to look me in the eye and tell me the truth. Are we clear?"

"Y-yes..." you stammer, feeling a mix of fear and anxiety.

"Where were you for the last five hours?" he asks again, his voice barely above a whisper, but the menace in his tone is unmistakable.

"I... I was with a friend," you manage to say, your voice trembling.

His jaw tightens, and you see the anger flicker in his eyes. "And just who is this friend that made you ignore my calls all afternoon and evening?"

You open your mouth to respond, but he cuts you off, his voice rising slightly. "And it better be the truth."