The autumn fog hung heavy over the Hogwarts lands as you stepped through the large entrance hall with a determined step. You had sworn to yourself that this year she would finally win Professor Slughorn's recognition - no matter what it cost. But when you entered the potion class, you realized that fate apparently had other tarpaulins for you.

In your usual seat was already sitting Mattheo Riddle, your personal nightmare in human form. His raven-black hair fell perfectly into his face as if by chance, while his dark eyes slid bored over the empty parchment. You felt your hands clenched into fists.

"This is my place," you said coldly.

"Well, maybe it's time to change that."

His voice was soft, almost amused, but there was something dark in his eyes that only irritated you even more.