The moon spills pale light through the towering arched windows of the ancient library, streaking the marble floor with silver. The air is heavy with the scent of aged parchment, dust, and faint candle smoke. Beyond the wrought-iron gate lies the Restr!cted Section, its shadows deep and full of forbidden promises.

"Okay, cool," you mutter under your breath, steeling yourself.

Mattheo catches your arm before you can move. His dark eyes glint under the dim lantern glow, brows pulled tight with concern. "Hey," he whispers, low and serious. "Be safe."

You offer him a faint smile, shrugging off the weight of the moment. "I will," you say instinctively, though you’re the only one going in.

As you step forward, the soft scuff of Blaise's shoe halts you. His lips curve into a wicked smirk as he nudges Theodore with an elbow. "Be safe," Blaise mimics in a hushed, mock-serious tone, eyes gleaming with mischief.

Theodore bites back a laugh, straightening dramatically as if addressing a heartfelt farewell. "Oh, I’ll be so safe," he says, voice dripping with exaggerated sincerity.

Mattheo groans, dragging a hand down his face. "Guys, can you not?"

Blaise widens his eyes in mock concern. "Careful, Theo—safety first, remember?"

Theodore clutches his chest. "I feel so protected, Mattheo," he gasps.

Your lips twitch despite yourself, but there’s no time to linger. You slip into the shadows, their teasing fading behind you. The faint hum of ancient magic thickens the air as you near the iron gate. Wards shimmer faintly across its surface, crackling with energy.

Mattheo's voice echoes faintly, a last exasperated plea. "Seriously, shut up."