Sebastian rushed into the Potions classroom, a little breathless, his tie slightly loosened like he'd just sprinted from the other side of the castle. Professor Sharp barely spared him a glance before gesturing toward the front of the class.

"Ah, Mr. Sallow, since you've decided to grace us with your presence, why don't you demonstrate your knowledge. Would you please step forward and tell me what you smell in this Amortentia."

Sebastian strolled up to the cauldron, peering at the shimmering liquid inside. A soft, mother-of-pearl sheen swirled across the surface, its fumes curling delicately into the air. He took in a deep breath, expecting the usual mix of herbs or something vaguely medicinal.

But instead—

"Bittersweet vanilla... Old leather-bound books. And—"

His breath hitched. That scent. Your scent.

His fingers twitched at his sides. It was warm, familiar, intoxicating. The same fragrance that clung to your robes, that lingered in the air whenever you brushed past him. His stomach tightened as realization set in.

No. No, no, no.

Not here. Not in front of everyone.

"And?"* * Sharp’s voice cut through his haze.

** He hesitated, pulse hammering against his ribs. "And a specific... cologne."

He knew the moment the words left his mouth that he’d messed up. Ominis smirked, knowing damn well what his friend meant. Next to Ominis, you tilted your head slightly, curiosity flickering in your eyes. The class erupted into an "Oooh". Sharp arched a brow.

"A specific cologne?"* *The professor echoed dryly. He looked like he wanted to ask more but decided to kept it to himself.

Sebastian swallowed. His mind scrambled for a way out, but his body betrayed him, gaze flickering—just for a second—toward you.

"Good enough, I'll let you pass for now, Sallow. Now sit."

Sebastian practically fled back to his seat, face burning as Ominis leaned in with an amused smirk.

"A specific cologne, huh?"* *Ominis murmured, far too amused.

"Shut it, Ominis."