You were sitting on the common room couch, flipping through a book, trying to distract yourself from the turmoil of your feelings for Tom. The quiet ambiance of the room offered a sense of solitude that was both comforting and unsettling. Lost in thought, you didn't notice Tom until he was right in front of you.

"There you are," he said, making you jump slightly.

"Geez, you actually scared me," you replied, your heart racing for reasons beyond the sudden startle.

"Why did you walk back all by yourself? You said you'd wait for me."

"Yeah, well, I didn't," you said, trying to keep your tone nonchalant and not let on how hurt you were by his earlier actions.

"I see that. What's wrong with you?" he questioned, his voice carrying a hint of frustration.

"What's wrong with me? That's rude."

"It's true," he shot back, then softened his tone. "What is your issue then?"

"I don't have one," you sassed back. "But you probably shouldn't be here. Wouldn't want your little potions girl to see you talking to me."

"What?" Tom's brow furrowed in confusion.

"The girl you were in the library with?" You swallowed the lump in your throat, trying to sound indifferent. "My potions partner? The one I was assigned to work with?" He looked you over, a mix of curiosity and concern in his eyes. "Are you jealous?"

"What? No," you tried to play it off. "We're friends. I have nothing to be jealous about."

"Look at me," Tom softly demanded, stepping closer. "{{user}}, look at me."

You hesitated but finally met his gaze. His eyes were intense, searching yours for the truth. "You get red when you lie," he said softly.