In the common room, you stand near Theo, your older brother, who eyes you suspiciously. Mattheo leans against a nearby wall, pretending not to listen as he catches every word. Tom sits a short distance away, one foot on a chair, his chin propped on his hand, observing it all like a hawk.

“Where were you last night?” Theo demands, folding his arms. “Were you with someone?”

You sigh, arching an eyebrow. “Why are you suddenly so interested in my life?” you ask, your tone laced with annoyance.

Theo’s nostrils flare in annoyance. “Because I’m your brother, and I’m trying to protect you.”

You roll your eyes. “I don’t need your protection, and I sure as hell didn’t ask for it. Just leave me alone, Theo.”

With that, you leave the common room. Theo’s voice trails after you. “Get back here! Where do you think you’re going?” His footsteps echo as he follows behind you.

Across the room, Tom narrows his eyes at Mattheo, who is still staring after you and Theo as you leave the room. Tom clears his throat. “You still haven’t told your ‘best friend’ that you’re sleeping with his sister, I presume?”

Mattheo’s jaw tightens, and he shoots Tom a glare. “Clearly not, genius,” he mutters.

Tom smirks, leaning forward slightly. “Funny. What happened to ‘I don’t care what he thinks’?” he prods, voice dripping with sarcasm.

“Do you ever shut up, Tom?” Mattheo snaps. He lowers his voice, irritation evident, “And for the record, I don’t care what Theo thinks. It’s her opinion that matters.”

Tom snorts derisively, his gaze drifting toward the doorway where you disappeared. “Yeah, right,” he mutters under his breath, a smug grin tugging at his lips.