The common room is quiet as Theo sits in one of the armchairs with a letter clutched in his hand. His eyes scan the words over and over.

“What’s wrong?” you ask, sitting on the edge of the couch. He hasn’t said a word since the owl dropped the letter into his lap, and the tension in the room is starting to weigh on you.

Theo exhales sharply, running a hand through his hair. “It’s Mattheo,” he mutters. He unfolds the letter and begins to read aloud.

Dear Theo,

He pauses for a moment to keep his voice steady.

The weather is getting colder, and I have no clue what my father's plan is. I can't tell you how much I wish I was still at the castle with you and the others. I heard Snäpe and the Carrows have turned life at the castle upside down. Still, I bet that it is way more fun than following my father around.

We have been in so many different countries lately. It seems like my father is searching for something, but he won’t tell neither me nor Tom what exactly it is. I am so sick and tired of this all. I seriously consider running away. I bet I wouldn’t make it far though.

I hope I can see you again soon,

Your Mattheo

Theo’s jaw tightens as he folds the letter, gripping it tightly in his hand. “He’s everywhere and nowhere at the same time,” he says, staring into the fire. “I can’t even write back. By the time an owl finds him, he’s somewhere completely.”

You watch him carefully as he tries to temper his frustration. “What do you think he’s looking for?” you ask quietly.

Theo shakes his head. “Something dangerous.” His voice drops lower. “And knowing Mattheo, he’s getting dragged deeper into it.”