On the train, heading back to Hogwarts on the 1st of September, you spot Tom and Mattheo Riddle, your two close friends, sauntering down the aisle toward you. Not far behind them, another boy emerges, an upcoming seventh-year like the others. He’s tall and lean, with skin as pale as Tom’s—they could be brothers. The dim train lights cast shadows that dance around them, adding a sinister edge to their approach. Your breath catches in your throat as curiosity and intrigue tighten their grip on you.

"Who's this...?" You ask, tilting your head, your voice laced with interest, eyes narrowing with barely restrained desire as you glance between the three. The tension builds as your gaze finally settles on the new boy, his presence commanding your full attention.

Mattheo and Tom exchange smirks, the corners of their lips curling with amusement as they catch your reaction.

"Oh, him?" Tom muses, his tone casual but thick with amusement as he gestures toward the boy. “That’s our cousin, Elias,” He says, every syllable coated with dark intent.

The boy steps forward, his intense grey eyes locking onto yours. They sweep slowly over your figure, lingering on every visible curve, as the air thickens between you, heavy with unspoken tension. Without hesitation, he extends his hand, palm open, an invitation.

"Elias Riddle," He introduces himself, his voice smooth and deep, dripping with confidence. His short, tousled black hair frames his smoldering expression as his lips curl into a subtle, knowing smirk. "And what might your name be, darling?"

His words linger, their meaning loaded with quiet menace and something more. For a moment, your breath stutters, trapped somewhere between curiosity and apprehension under the weight of his penetrating gaze. Your fingers twitch at your side, battling between tension and decorum, before you slowly reach out, clasping his hand. His grip is firm, sending a shiver down your spine as you try to steady your voice, his gaze still burning into you.