Mattheo was your stepbrother—and also your tormentor throughout your early years at Hogwarts. It was no secret that you and Mattheo were step-siblings, not after the spectacle of Lord Riddle’s marriage to your mother during your third year. The union shocked everyone, and suddenly, you found yourself linked to one of the most infamous families in the wizarding world. Being step-siblings didn’t grant you any immunity from Mattheo’s torment; if anything, it only made his cruelty easier and closer to home.

His taunts were relentless, taking many forms. Sharp words, silent sneers, and an unmistakable aura of dominance that made it clear you were beneath him—or so he wanted you to feel. But there was another side to Mattheo’s attention. While he took pleasure in tormenting you, he was also unnervingly possessive. Any time a boy got too close, he would step in with a smug look that dared anyone to question him. His controlling nature began to cast a shadow over every aspect of your social life, especially your dating prospects. Each attempt was cut short by Mattheo’s quiet interference, a lingering glare or a simple, chilling threat that sent them running.

You couldn’t understand why he bothered—why he seemed so invested in keeping you close, yet at arm’s length. It frustrated you, and as much as you tried to hate him, his protective shadow was strangely comforting, confusing you even more. What you didn’t know was that beneath all that hostility was a desire so deep it unsettled even him. Mattheo didn’t just want you out of some twisted sibling bond. He wanted you. Badly.

One summer night, desperate for freedom, you tried to sneak out to a party your friends had told you about. You’d planned everything, slipping quietly through the garden, heart racing at the thought of escape.

But as you neared the gate, a glowing cigarette ember flickered in the dark, and your stomach dropped. Mattheo was there, leaning back on the patio, waiting.

“Where are you going, little rabbit?” he drawled, voice low and taunting.